After checking into our hotel in Inverness, we soon felt the pangs of hunger. Naturally, I searched for some nearby restaurants and spotted a pizza place that looked promising. But here’s the catch—we had pizza the night before, and strangely enough, it didn’t tempt us this time.
While wandering around the hotel area, we stumbled upon Playback Bar & Restaurant, a spot famed for smash burgers and chicken wings. If you’re hunting for a great burger in Inverness, this place should definitely be on your list.
Location & First Impressions
Playback Bar & Restaurant is conveniently located in the city centre at:
27-31 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1JN, UK
Walking in, I was immediately struck by the vibrant red-themed interior—totally MZ-generation chic. The staff were friendly and welcoming, which instantly set a positive tone for our evening.
Fun fact: The bright, bold colours aren’t just for show—they mirror the playful and energetic vibe of the restaurant, perfect for both adults and kids.
The Food
Smash Burgers
We tried the K-town Vegan Burger and Veggie Buffalo Burger. Both were incredibly flavourful. My daughter Chloe, usually picky with food, loved the K-town burger—mainly because it included a kimchi-inspired filling. While it wasn’t exactly like Korean kimchi, it blended beautifully with the burger, adding a unique twist.
Crazy Cauliflower Bite
I also tried the Crazy Cauliflower Bite. It was spicy and edible, but honestly, I wouldn’t mark it as a must-try.
Loaded Fries
The loaded fries looked tempting but turned out very salty, especially at the bottom where the sauce pooled. If you’re sensitive to salt, be prepared to share or skip the last few bites!
Drinks
While the adults enjoyed a well-earned beer, Kimchi was curious and playfully tasted the foam—she gave it a thumbs down. Meanwhile, the kids happily had apple juice, making it a fun, family-friendly experience.
Activities & Atmosphere
Playback Bar isn’t just about food. It offers table football, pool, ping pong, axe throwing, and beer pong—perfect if you want a bit of post-dinner entertainment. These activities do cost extra, but they fit perfectly for friends or families looking for an interactive dining experience.
There’s even a small outdoor drinking area, ideal for warm summer evenings, making it not just a restaurant but a social hub in the city centre.
Insight: The combination of casual dining, fun activities, and a vibrant interior makes Playback Bar a magnet for the young and adventurous crowd.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding smash burgers and chicken wings
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Variety of post-dinner activities for all ages
- Great city centre location
Cons
- Loaded fries can be overly salty
- Busy, energetic crowd—might not suit those seeking quiet dining
- Portion sizes are moderate; burgers are delicious but not huge, so if you’re really hungry, you’ll need to order extra sides or drinks, which can add up
Why You Should Visit
Even after a long day of sightseeing, wrapping up with a burger and a beer while Kimchi explored the games made the evening perfectly memorable. Playback Bar & Restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a combination of good food, playful energy, and social vibes.
If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed, and flavour-packed evening in Inverness, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss.
Closing Thoughts
Our experience at Playback Bar & Restaurant perfectly balanced Inverness’s vibrant food scene and playful, youthful energy. From tasty burgers to quirky activities, it’s a place that keeps you entertained, full, and happy. If you want a mix of gastronomy and fun, this is the spot to bookmark for your Inverness trip!