Having looked after audiences at the Perth Concert Hall for over twenty years, chef Martin Buchan knows all about putting on a performance in the kitchen – and his latest role is at the Red House Hotel in Coupar Angus.
Having spent a ‘very happy two decades’ at Perth Concert Hall in charge of all its catering, Martin was dismayed when that side of the business did not come back after Covid, but is now delighted to be joining Red House Head Chef, Nigel Liston, along with long serving hotel chef, George Arnott, as part of its team.
“I’m glad to be back in the professional kitchen now, as it’s very much where I am happiest,” said Marton. “Overall I’ve been a chef for 34 years. I know lots of my colleagues have left the industry, and are now doing other things, but experienced chefs are really in demand at the moment. I think this industry still has much to commend it.”
Martin also noted that the Red House had some very long-served staff, with chef Mr Arnott, assistant manager Sarah Cooper, and Front of House Carol Anne Keys, all having worked there for over twenty five years.
“It’s the sign of a happy workplace, plus a very good employer which really values its staff,” said Martin.
“We are delighted to welcome Martin to the ‘family team’ that is the Red House Hotel,” said owner Alan Bannerman. “Experienced chefs like him staying in the industry is what we want to encourage.”
The Red House Hotel’s vibrant customer base includes golfers, hillwalkers, daytrippers, and local people who enjoy the all day dining on offer. Part of its offer is eating and drinking in the hotel’s new, all glass, outdoor seating area, a permanent structure added last year at a cost of £80k.
Able to accommodate forty guests in its nine metre by seven metre space, the structure has a fully retractable roof with LED lighting, as well as three guillotine glass sides which can come down all the way to table height. Remote controlled, it can be adjusted for the customers’ convenience.
Local architect Stewart Irving, based in Coupar Angus, came up with the innovative design, which was then supplied by Love Awnings in Prestwick.
Mr Bannerman added: “It’s an exciting time for us with the golfing season in full swing – we are very busy with over two thousand golfers booked this year.
“We will be using the indoor/outdoor room a lot more in the coming months. Our chefs can all look forward to having their dishes served up in this fantastic contemporary space.”
