New faces on Loch Tay

TWO restaurants on the shores of Loch Tay are looking ahead to the busy summer season with revamped offers and new management teams in place.

The Boathouse Kitchen and Bar near Killin has reopened after a significant refurbishment. The venue, which is now being operated by the team behind Van Winkle and Mharsanta in Glasgow and The Inchcolm Inn in South Queensferry, is located on the grounds of the Loch Tay Highland Lodges development and will serve cottage guests as well as the general public.

In addition to a revamped interior, the refurbishment project also included the construction of five outdoor dining bothies in the restaurant’s outside area. The venue’s menu has been revamped and a new dog-friendly section added for customers visiting with their pets.

Operator Derek Mallon said: “It fills us with pride to take over management of The Boathouse at Loch Tay and to have finished refurbishing the space, creating a relaxed space for guests at this very special location.

“We’ve put a lot of care into revamping the space and are very much looking forward to welcoming customers old and new. As restrictions continue to ease, we hope to become a new favourite for locals and visitors alike.”

Johnny Argo outside The Courtyard Restaurant in Kenmore.

And in nearby Kenmore, Johnny Argo – originally from Killin – has taken up the role of manager of The Courtyard Bar & Restaurant.

The appointment marks a return to The Courtyard for Argo, who spent several summers working as a waiter there in his younger years, before embarking on a hospitality career in Perth, Aberdeen and Glasgow. Latterly he worked in an operations role for Signature Pubs.

“It’s been fantastic to welcome everyone back,” he said.

“We have a new menu with brunch right up to evening dinner being served. The emphasis is on ‘locally produced’, and we’re showcasing local beers, gins, meat, and many other excellent suppliers.

“We’re also very lucky to have good outside space at The Courtyard which will be well utilised in the coming months.”