Ayrshire

LarderTHE GUIDE TO THE FOOD & DRINK OF AYRSHIRE & ARRAN With miles of unspoilt coastline and acres of farmland, it’s no secret that Ayrshire is famous for its award-winning Scottish food and drink, such as quality Ayrshire bacon, Ayrshire potatoes, freshly caught seafood, locally brewed beers, deliciously creamy cheese and even creamier ice cream, to mention just a few. When exploring this stunning region, you can experience the finest natural produce that Ayrshire has to offer by dining in the restaurants and cafés, visiting local producers and enjoying a trip to one of the farmers’ markets.

As well as the fine Ayrshire food and drink on offer, you can sample the stunning coastal views at many of the restaurants and hotels. Take time to delve into the region’s rich heritage at the many popular attractions from captivating castles and ancient standing stones to stately country houses and memorable museums. So whether you are seeking the fine-dining experience of a Michelin-starred restaurant, the chance to improve your cookery skills or simply enjoying fish and chips at the harbourside or participating in a whisky tasting, Ayrshire and the islands of Arran and Cumbrae really do have something to satisfy all tastes. We hope you enjoy our region!

Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Team Introduction PHOTO: TASTE AYRSHIRE

The Ayrshire Larder Part of The Larder series of food and drink publications thelarder.net

Editors Donald Reid, Jay Thundercliffe Editorial assistance Mercy Breheny, Claire Ritchie, Claire Sawers Writing & research Rowan Anderson, Steven Dick, Hannah Ewan, Kelsey Farrell, Rachel Gillon, Erica Goodey, Tiff Griffin, Malcolm s one of the most productive agricultural regions of Scotland, with its long coastline Jack, Laura Muetzelfeldt, along the Firth of Clyde and a lush, attractive interior, Ayrshire is a landscape laden David Pollock, Keith Smith A with food and drink for you to discover. Alongside the region’s famous golf courses, Design & Production historic sites and grand buildings, you can discover its well-known dairy, beef and seafood, but Simon Armin Ayrshire is also dotted with farmhouse cheesemakers, bakers, beekeepers, market gardeners, Map brewers, chocolatiers and smokehouses. Ayrshire & Arran Tourism This guide aims to tell the story of Ayrshire’s food and drink in its richness and practical Cover detail. It tells you about the food grown, made, landed and reared in Ayrshire, and just as Taste Ayrshire importantly where to find it, from local farm shops to contemporary restaurants. Independently Publishers selected to reflect the contemporary food culture of Ayrshire, this is a guide to help you find, Robin Hodge, Simon Dessain appreciate and enjoy great local food. Larder Project Director Peter Brown ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This guide has been developed by The List working in partnership with the ©2015 The List Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Team and with support from Ayrshire Chamber of publication may be reproduced, Commerce and Industry and other food champions in the area including Ayrshire stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any Bed & Breakfast Association, Ayrshire Food Network, Ayrshire College, Slow means, electronic, mechanical, Food West of Scotland and Ayrshire Farmers’ Markets Association. The editors photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior would like to thank Ros Halley, Val Russell and Howard Wilkinson for their permission in writing of The List Ltd. commitment to and support for the project. This first edition published by The List Ltd 14 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1TE Tel: 0131 550 3050 list.co.uk

Reprinted 2015 with minor EDITORIAL SELECTION: alterations The editorial content of all guides in The Larder series, including Ayrshire Extensive efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the Larder, is independently researched, written and produced by The List. These information in this publication, are consumer-oriented guides to local food and drink and all the businesses however the publishers can accept no responsibility for any and organisations are selected by The List on the basis of their editorial merit errors it may contain. and relevance. No entry in The Larder’s national and regional guides pays to be included.

The Ayrshire Larder 3 Contents list.co.uk What’s in the Ayrshire Larder? There’s a lot packed into these 48 pages. Here are a few of the highlights

Ice Ice Baby Cream of the crop With so many ice-cream producers in Widely considered to be the queen of the dairy scene the brown- the area, every day can be sundae. See and-white Ayrshire cow produces some of the finest milk in page 23 for more. Scotland. See page 6.

Can you dig it? Chefs’ Choices The Ayrshire spud is far from humble. Find out what’s so Local chefs select their favourite produce from the special about these lauded tatties on page 18. area. See panels from page 26.

4 The Ayrshire Larder Contents

Market value Dining Destination Buy the best of Ayrshire at a farmers’ Check out the best spots to sample local produce, whatever your market or head to a local food festival. style, location or budget. Listings begin on pages 35. See page 46.

From Ayrshire Where to Buy A comprehensive round-up of the food From butchers and grown, farmed, made and landed in bakers to farm shops Ayrshire. See pages 21–23. and fishmongers, our list- ings start on page 26.

Introduction 3 Features 6 Map 24 Where to Buy 26 Where to Eat 35 Pick of the picnic spots Farmers’ Markets & Food Events 46 Shake out your picnic blanket in the grounds of a castle or choose a Index 47 stunning coastal view. See page 45.

The Ayrshire Larder 5 Dairy Cows list.co.uk How Now Brown and White Cow The iconic Ayrshire cow helps supply the region with fresh ice cream, cheese and milk. Malcolm Jack explores some of the region’s dairy delicacies

he famous brown-and-white Ayrshire dairy cow 1870s, the indomitable Ayrshire’s pre-eminence in isn’t anything like as ubiquitous a sight as it its heyday led to the formation of the Ayrshire Cattle T once was, dotted across rolling green Ayrshire Society in 1877, a body which in the 21st century still pastureland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. endeavours to keep the breed at the forefront of modern Progressively interbred with and usurped by the more dairying. Favoured for their hardiness, efficiency, good productive and thus much more common black-and- temperament and above all superior milk – so good white Holstein cow, even if they’re to be commonly it stands up to blind taste-test scrutiny against its found elsewhere in the world from Finland to New leading rivals – you’ll still find certain Ayrshire farmers Zealand, Australia and Malaysia, they’re the rare breed standing steadfastly by the Ayrshire as a breed. these days in their native land. But don’t assume we’re ‘Traditionally she has higher components within her soon to see the back of these distinctive bovines. milk, higher fat and protein,’ says Hugh Woodburn, Originally known as Dunlop and later Cunningham founder of the Woody’s Ice Cream brand and keeper of cattle and first recorded on an official basis in the a large herd of Ayrshires at Killoch Farm near Galston.

6 The Ayrshire Larder Dairy Cows

‘Market research has proven for her milk to have a of farmhouse cheeses including traditional Ayrshire superior taste to that of the black-and-white cow.’ Dunlop – a cheddar-like style that was recognised Woodburn began making ice cream approximately 12 with European PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) years ago, during a crisis for dairy farming in the UK status in 2015. when profits slumped and many farmers were forced ‘We’re not going for quantity of milk, we’re going to diversify to survive. Producing around 50 different for quality,’ she says. ‘I’m producing the milk just for flavours of fresh ice cream in small batches, often my cheese, I’m not pushing out every litre to sell to a bespoke to order, Woody’s has become a well-respected tanker every day. So we’re not looking for fast yield and recognised brand in an increasingly competitive out of these cows. We’re also looking for ones that ice-cream market in Ayrshire and the west of Scotland. can produce milk off a lower diet,’ she continues, ‘and The majority of Killoch Farm’s milk is still sold that’s what the Ayrshires were good for back in the day. to a dairy on a daily basis, but it keeps enough back Because our farm’s a bit higher up here and it’s a wee to manufacture about 40–50,000 litres of ice-cream bit less productive than some places, we’re looking for a annually. Hugh recently handed over the running of cow that’s a little bit hardier.’ Woody’s to his daughter, Jill Woodburn, allowing him For a business of Dunlop Dairy’s size, producing only to concentrate on, ahem, milking the most valuable asset as much cheese as it can sell either direct-to-customer of their business. through its own on-farm shop and tearoom, or via ‘We have all the products on hand,’ says Woodburn select local shops and delis, buying in Ayrshire cattle’s to explain Woody’s ice cream’s freshness USP. ‘The milk from another supplier isn’t really an option. ‘It’s cows are milked at six o’clock in the morning and it’s economies of scale these days,’ Dorward explains. pasteurised at nine o’clock the same morning and it’s ice ‘If we’re buying in milk, it’s coming from a big cream the next day. There’s no pool, and it’d be very difficult transport links, and we eliminate for us to get small quantities a lot of contamination and of Ayrshire milk from one heating problems by keeping it farm. So it’s cheaper for us to all on farm. Not many ice-cream keep our own Ayrshires and producers can do an on-farm work within our means. Also process like that.’ because they’re our cows As owner of Dunlop Dairy and we’re doing the work, cheesemaker, Ann Dorward we know what they’re eating, keeps a herd of 30 Ayrshire cattle what stage they’re at and at her farm near Stewarton in everything about them. We’ve Ayrshire and similarly finds them got the whole food chain.’ to be perfect for her small-scale ■■ woodysicecream.co.uk; business, hand-making a range dunlopdairy.co.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 7 Breakfast list.co.uk Land of Milk and Honey, and Square Sausage Besides the scenery, the prospect of a breakfast of Ayrshire bacon, sausages, black pudding and haggis is another big draw, finds Rachel Gillon

yrshire farmers have the perfect and Thomson MacKenzie have been ingredients for producing successfully farming rare and heritage- A top-quality, flavoursome breed cows, pigs and sheep since 2005. meat. Mother nature provides the ideal Both speak passionately about the conditions for farming; a mild climate, animals they breed and are rightly proud coupled with high rainfall ensures of them. animals are grazing on lush pastures. At their 47-acre farm on the hills With a rich and successful farming above Dunlop, they rear a range of native heritage, too, some might say Ayrshire is Scottish and primitive cattle including the ideal land of milk and honey. White Park cows alongside Tamworth, The field-to-fork cycle works well, Gloucester Old Spot and Saddleback thanks to a close collaboration between rare-breed pigs. These breeds are the farming community, hospitality particularly well suited to rough grazing sector and retail market. Additional and foraging, and therefore thrive in drive and enthusiasm from organisations Scottish weather. They will happily stay such as the Ayrshire Food Network, a outside even in the coldest of winters. consortium of major hospitality and food With their strong desire to preserve businesses, means that sourcing local sustainable-farming methods, the produce is made easy. Clearly, there is MacKenzies are an excellent example some joined-up thinking going on. of a field-to-fork success story. The Local beef, lamb and pork products are addition of an on-site butchery is a widely available and Ayrshire residents natural extension of their determination are justifiably proud of the region’s to provide the very best meat to their ability to be largely self sufficient. From customers. Alongside traditional cuts farms to smallholdings, there’s a rich and of meat, the couple produce their own diverse range of livestock being reared top-quality sausages and bacon; popular and good-quality meat being produced. within the area’s hotels as key ingredients At Nethergate Farm in Dunlop, Arlene in the traditional Scottish breakfast.

8 The Ayrshire Larder Breakfast

> AYRSHIRE BACON: A CURE Land of Milk and Honey, and Square Sausage FOR ALL ILLS Besides the scenery, the prospect of a breakfast of Ayrshire bacon, sausages, black pudding and haggis is another big draw, finds Rachel Gillon

When it comes to a traditional Scottish breakfast, there’s one product that stands out – Ayrshire cured bacon. Traditionally, it is produced from Great White premium- grade Scottish pigs and unlike other bacons, the skin and bones are removed before curing. It’s the only distinctive bacon Breakfast is the most important meal ABBA is committed to serving the best cure in Scotland of the day, but as B&B owners in the Ayrshire produce to guests, so menus and curers are quick area will attest, it’s also an essential and are punctuated with references to local to defend their unique selling point. Many visitors look producers and suppliers. Offerings methods against any forward to a hearty breakfast before include local free range eggs, alongside impostors. heading out to explore. Of course, the haggis, square sausage and black The curing method, area’s speciality pork products, the pudding. There’s been collaboration which begins with famous Ayrshire bacon, sausages, black between ABBA and Kilmarnock-based immersing the pork pudding and haggis are favourites. Cook School Scotland to help members in brine, removes Naturally, local butchers and with cooking and food presentation skills any trace of water, producers are keen to ensure their meat and this can be seen in the high standards producing a rich and is gracing the area’s best establishments. and choice of breakfasts being served flavoursome bacon At Thomson’s Square Sausage in to guests. As part of 2015 Scotland’s that fries perfectly Craigie, managing director Janie Year of Food and Drink, ABBA is with no milky or Thomson attributes the popularity of also working with students at Ayrshire watery residue. the traditional Scottish square sausage College to develop a flagship Ayrshire The cured bacon is on the breakfast menu to the company’s breakfast. rolled and is quite handmade production methods and the There has been a suggestion to create distinctive with the consistent high quality using carefully an Ayrshire continental breakfast using fattier streaky rolled sourced Scotch beef. It’s a similar story artisan pork and venison charcuterie and around the leaner for the area’s haggis and black pudding cheeses. An ideal option for this would back bacon. It’s the producers. be the new range of top-quality pork and bacon of choice for The opportunity in Ayrshire venison charcuterie from Kilmarnock- butchers and chefs for serving a uniquely sourced local based company Scottish Charcuterie. throughout Scotland breakfast has been embraced by the the It would surely be a great choice for with many favouring it members of ABBA, the Ayrshire Bed visitors and a perfect Scottish twist on the over Italian pancetta. & Breakfast Association. They lack no continental style. (Rachel Gillon) imagination when it comes to breakfast. ■■ ayrshirebandb.com

The Ayrshire Larder 9 Seafood list.co.uk Shellfish Love Far more than just fish and chips awaits, explains Erica Goodey, when sustainable langoustines and lobster are on the menu

hen asked to think of seafood shallow waters to plonk him on his boat from Ayrshire, you would be so that he would stay dry during his long W forgiven for being transported day at sea. Now that’s devotion for you. to a bench beside the seaside, fish and In those days, herring, salmon, cod, chips in hand, the sweet, steamy waft hake and skate were in abundance in the of vinegar and newspaper filling your Firth of Clyde, and would be hauled in nostrils while seagulls squawk overhead by the netful to be sold at the fish market and salty air licks at your cheeks. in Ayr, and could then be sold on as far Yet Ayrshire produces much more than away as England, Ireland and France. the humble fish supper. This fruitful These days, however, dwindling fish coastline has always been home to a stocks stacked up with government vigorous fishing industry, which in quotas, regulations and bans, mean that the past, shaped many of the coastal the majority of Ayrshire’s catch is made communities including Ardrossan, up of shellfish. Saltcoats and Troon. The fish that do come from these If you’d visited one of these towns waters are mainly made up of the in the 1800s you would probably have small amounts of legal by-catch from seen a harbour bustling with hundreds of langoustine trawlers. boats. You may even have seen a brawny Langoustines are in abundance in the fisherman’s wife hoisting up her skirt Firth of Clyde and many trawler boats and carrying her husband through the visit the coast all year round to harvest

10 The Ayrshire Larder Seafood

these succulent, tasty little beasties. Someone else who preaches this > FISH & CHIPS Once caught, the majority are packed belief is Tom Bryson, the owner of HQ on ice and either exported to the markets Shellfish. He has fished in the Ardrossan and restaurants of locations such as Paris area since he was a young boy. and Milan, or rather less glamorously, ‘We go out and catch lobsters to order, sent to food processing plants. so our lobsters come out of the sea and Two thirds of all the world’s go straight to the restaurant that day,’ langoustine are sourced in Scotland, says Bryson. many coming from the Firth of Clyde. He and his brother have taken the art However, much to the disappointment of fishing back to how the fisherfolk of Ayr’s long coastline of the owner of Fencebay Fisheries, Tom Ayrshire’s past used to do it: fresh from lends itself to the Campbell, they’re not all eaten here. the sea to the plate, and with a deep traditional fresh ‘It’s all about the freshness,’ says respect for the ocean. His mother even Scottish chippy. Campbell, who explains that the longer watches her sons working in the harbour All the big towns the crustaceans are kept after being from her living-room window. are well-served, plucked from the sea, the more the sugars Having scuba dived in the area, he has for example Irvine and proteins break down - rendering seen for himself how the langoustine with Enzo’s (72 Ayr them tasteless. trawler nets ‘destroy the seabed’, which Road), where they ‘You can’t beat langoustines fresh out in turn destroys everything else. fry local haddock in of the sea, boiled up in a pot of salty ‘If you fish the sea to a certain level and beef dripping for a water. The taste is immense. You can’t only take what you need, and put things distinctive ‘west coast get that out of a supermarket.’ back, like pregnant female lobsters, then taste’. The newer Campbell’s business comprises a small the sea will be there to fish forever,’ he Marco’s (34 Caldon trout farm, a smokehouse, a farm shop says. Road) is Enzo’s sister and an award-winning restaurant, the It’s an extraordinarily refreshing ethos outlet, while the Ship Catch at Fins. He firmly believes that to hear from a businessman. And one Inn sells takeout fish fresh fish is far superior to chemically that, if adopted more widely, could keep and chips through the laden, processed foods that have a longer this beautiful coastline alive. Wee Catch (120– 122 shelf life. ■■ fencebay.co.uk Harbour Street). Other favourites include Troon’s Wee Hurrie (Harbour Road), sister chippie of the Wee Fry in Glasgow’s Bearsden, Graziano’s Harbour Café (37 Knockushan Street) in Girvan and Ayr’s 50-year-old Dino’s (49 Maybole Road). On the Isle of Arran, Hooked and Cooked (The Pier, Brodick) runs a regular chip shop in Brodick and also a chippy van, which regularly tours the island, with stops announced on Facebook in advance. ■■ downiefish.co.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 11 Herbs list.co.uk Salad Days Meet Robin Gray, former chef in a Michelin-starred restaurant, now chief herb-grower on Arran. Laura Muetzelfeldt gets a tour of the polytunnel where it all happens

obin Gray doesn’t have a hat, pulled down as insurance against the website. He doesn’t need one. cold February air. R In fact, as he explains, checking For years, Gray grew herbs and leaves on it would only take him away from illicitly on a small, south-facing patch his work. There is no sense of hard sell overlooking the sea on the Isle of Arran. about him and a quick Google confirms He tried to contact the owner, but the this: he’s hard to find. Buyers come plot wasn’t for sale. However, through to me, he tells us. He’d love more an introduction by a friend, he met the of the island chefs who order leaves, owner – as luck would have it – just vegetables and fruit from him to pay him as he was thinking about selling. If a visit. You see, as well as being a chef’s you’ve ever eaten in the Ubiquitous gardener, he is also a chef. His mellow Chip, Gandolfi or Stravaigan in Glasgow temperament deceives, and knowing that – or Auchrannie and the Drift Inn on he used to work in Raymond Blanc’s Arran itself – you can thank fate for two Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux this fortuitous turn of events. Visit his Quat’Saisons forces you to look again at polytunnel on the outskirts of Whiting the man with the warm smile and grey Bay and it quickly becomes clear why

12 The Ayrshire Larder Herbs

> JOINED-UP THINKING

Arran’s food producers are an interconnected lot. Arran Fine Foods uses whisky from the Isle of Arran Distillery in its Arran Malt Whisky Marmalade. And the distillery sells some of Glasgow top restaurants choose One of the main difficulties he faces chocolates made by Gray as their supplier of leaves. is the west-coast climate. However, James of Arran using Inside the tunnel – a protection against the shakily drawn coastline of Arran its cream liqueur, the Scottish weather and local rabbits throws up an advantage to offset this. Arran Gold. – there is a pleasing sense of chaos Preparations for the next year begin Every year, the and order. Plants grow randomly from when September storms bring up distillery hosts the holes in sacking, stretching towards ‘wreck’ seaweed on the same stretch of Malt & Music Festival. the sea in carefully delineated rows. beach visible from his polytunnel. Gray Robin Gray, of Robin’s Lowered walkways mean that Gray gathers it and mixes it with manure Herbs, caters for and any co-workers can walk up and to make compost. This is then turned the opening-night down the different plant beds; before this into the soil and one of the reasons his dinner and supplies adjustment, more work was created as small windswept sweep of land is so leaves, while the the compacted soil had to be turned over productive. Arran Butcher every year. Coat hangers mysteriously The isolation of being on an island creates pork, whisky hang from the struts that run along the creates challenges but, with its & apple sausages. The top beside, less puzzlingly, various sets heightened sense of community, also distillery café menu of work gloves. offers solutions. The main problem is the lists Creelers’ smoked The sea is visible through a small cost individual businesses face shipping salmon, Wooleys’ square window at the far end and the products off the island. The answer: pool oatcakes and local smell of seaweed, spume and wet their resources and ship many products cheese. On Arran’s sand permeates. Some chefs swear the in one van. west coast, Bellevue proximity of his plant bed to the sea ‘Taste of Arran pick up, pack and take Creamery makes makes his leaves taste salty, but he is to restaurants,’ says Gray, mentioning Island Cheese. Taste quick to dismiss this. Despite his affable the website he uses to distribute leaves of Arran distributes appearance, there is an air of unassuming and other products. ‘Clubbing together,’ this and other local logic about him. To accelerate the first as Gray calls, it is both an acquired and produce. Through crops of the year, he has installed heated instinctive solution. the website, it sends beds; rather than attempt to describe the He also has plans to be involved in cheese, oatcakes, taste of a certain plant, he will bend and a community project that islanders are mustard and beers all pick some for you to try. He is keen to trying to get off the ground. They have over the UK. Other trial new seed variations and you get secured 18 acres of land for a community distributors take the the sense that this willingness to try new garden and he has offered to help by products as far afield things, and his continuous energy to try giving advice on one of the things he as Dubai. and better what he does, is one of the does best: doing up the beds. (Laura Muetzelfeldt) reasons he is where he is today. ■■ taste-of-arran.co.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 13 Beer list.co.uk Hey Porter

Tiff Griffin takes a look at Ayrshire’s brewing history and the award-winning micro- breweries in operation today, adding chocolate and mint to the mix

t its peak, Ayrshire boasted six private the Glen Park hotel owned by brother-in-law and breweries. Almost all fell into decline by business partner Paul Rossi. ‘It just seemed like A the mid twentieth century in the face the right time to do it, though obviously you never of increased competition from larger operators. know for sure,’ says Valenti. Renewed interest was sparked in the 1980s by Since opening in 2009, the operation quickly the Lugton Brewery, located near Beith, which, picked up enough interest to become a full- although now long-closed, put Ayrshire brewing time concern, and is now producing around 40 on the map once more. This history is being kept casks a week. The range is based on flagship alive by a handful of craft brewers, including traditional porters and IPAs. It also includes the Ayr Brewing Company, Ethical Ales and the the more contemporary American-style golden Arran Brewery. In Ayr Brewing’s Rabbie’s Porter blonde HipHopopotamus. Seasonal beers include and Arran’s Guid Ale, they have signature brews the quirky Mint-Chocolate Porter in which mint that reference Ayrshire’s most famous son and a essence is added to the base brew. According regional tradition dating back hundreds of years. to Valenti, it proves especially popular at The Ayr Brewing Company is a micro-brewery Christmas. He likes to blend the artisan craft of based in the town itself and is perhaps less well- the process with modern community; some of known to UK drinkers than its island counterpart. the one-off brews result from conversations with Its prowess is evidenced by a number of SIPA customers and fans. He’s justifiably proud of his awards and the CAMRA Scotland Champion Porter achievements, pointing out: ‘To have brought title won by Rabbie’s Porter. a working brewery back to the town after an Hops arrive at the Ayr site to be mashed and 80-year absence is a wonderful thing for the town brewed under the watchful gaze of master brewer and the region.’ Anthony Valenti. It’s a family business where the ■■arranbrewery.co.uk; ayrbrewingcompany.com; hard work happens in a small space adjacent to ethicalales.com

14 The Ayrshire Larder The leading online guide to the Food and Drink of Scotland

Independently selected by our award-winning editorial team with over 2,500 entries covering: • cheese makers, smokeries, fruit growers, brewers, distillers, ice-cream makers and more • butchers, bakers, fishmongers, farm shops and farmers’ markets • restaurants, bistros and cafés Geo-coded so you can select places close to where you are and designed for use on smart phones and tablets. food.list.co.uk the Larder Haggis list.co.uk

Haggis’s Poster Boy Rachel Gillon traces the longstanding relationship between Ayrshire and haggis, thanks to the region’s most famous son, Robert Burns

ew foods unite people in light-hearted entertainment for his hosts celebration on the same night of while staying in Edinburgh’. F the year across the world quite But even if his tongue was firmly in like the haggis. While treated with his cheek when he wrote it, she adds, curiosity, and even suspicion, by those Burns ‘unwittingly elevated haggis from unfamiliar with it, the haggis is also its humble origins to something iconic; loved and lauded. Indeed, the haggis and, without him, there would be no high has transformed the annual celebration of feasting on haggis in January.’ the life and works of poet Robert Burns The first recorded Burns supper into a traditional, often dramatic Scottish took place on 21 July 1801, the fifth theatrical production. anniversary of Burns’ death, when nine According to Jo Macsween, author of friends met in Alloway. Then, as now, The Haggis Bible, the reason that haggis the ‘Great Chieftain o’ the Puddin’ is so closely associated with Scotland at Race’ was honoured by the Address and all is firmly down to Robert Burns and toasted, no doubt, with some local ale his eight-verse ‘Address to a Haggis’, and a few drams. Within a few years and first published in 1786. ‘It is by no means with a shift of date to Burns’ birthday of his greatest work,’ comments Macsween, 25 January, this simple tribute became a but ‘something he whipped up as a bit of globally recognised annual celebration

16 The Ayrshire Larder Spirits

> MADE IN SCOTLAND, Water of Life (and poetry) FROM GIRVAN No Burns supper is complete without Scotland’s national drink, and the island offers the perfect accompanying dram t’s no surprise that the land of Robert Burns is synonymous I with the love of good whisky. The area is home to one of the country’s few remaining independent whisky distillers, Isle of Arran distillery, and The gin widely the local connection makes it a popular recognised for choice of whisky at Burns celebrations. blazing the trail Established in 1995, Isle of Arran for Scotland’s – Distillers has a core range of single and indeed the malts, blends and limited-edition UK’s – current gin bottlings including the Devil’s Punchbowl renaissance is firmly and a cream liqueur called Arran Gold. rooted in Ayrshire. It is its 14-year-old Arran Malt, William Grant & however, that Ayrshire whisky expert, Sons, the family- Robin Russell, of Robbie’s Drams in owned distillers who Ayr, recommends as a local whisky to pioneered the single serve with haggis. With its flavours of malt industry when chocolate, orange and spiced tea cake, they bottled and Russell says it makes for a perfect drink marketed Glenfiddich for toasting Scotland’s national poet. in the 1950s, started In an area steeped in history about producing Hendricks Burns, who himself was fond of a dram, it’s fitting that Isle of Arran Distillers is Gin at their grain patron of the World Burns Federation. In recognition of this and as a toast to the distillery in Girvan great man himself, the distillers have created a Robert Burns Collection. As a in 1999. Launched former exciseman in an area famous for its illicit whisky trade, Burns might well two years later, it have penned an ode to this. (Rachel Gillon) demonstrated to the world that, beyond the legally required and forever cemented the relationship haggis trends such as, haggis pakora, pizza juniper, gin was a between Ayrshire and the haggis. or nachos. blank canvas for Unlike modern-day Burns suppers, neeps A new event at the Robert Burns creative concocting. and tatties played no recorded part in the Birthplace Museum in Alloway near Ayr Using two separate first gatherings, and given the relatively late gives tourists the opportunity to take part in stills, and distilling in introduction of the turnip to Scotland, it an Express Burns Supper. Over the course batches of under 500 seems unlikely that the ploughman poet ever of an hour, it’s possible to experience the litres, their infusion enjoyed the trio of meat and two veg on his traditional meal within Burns Cottage, with of crisp cucumber plate. a recital followed by a dram. There’s also and rose petal, plus Haggis recipes vary from butcher a growing popularity for bespoke weddings the kooky marketing to butcher and each claims a shroud of at the Museum and Burns Cottage with, of and medicinal bottle, secrecy on their particular combination of course, haggis on the menu. has proven to be offal, oatmeal, fat, onions, seasonings and For many, haggis may be the best a revolutionary spices. Traditions are valued, yet as Burns possible comfort food, humble ‘hamely milestone in gin himself knew, haggis is a democratic dish fare’ as Burns himself puts it, but thanks history. uncomfortable with conformity and rules. to the Bard it’s also the pride of Ayrshire (Jay Thundercliffe) We can only speculate what sharp-witted and, indeed, Scotland. ■■ hendricksgin.com references Burns might make to current ■■ burnsmuseum.org.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 17 Ayrshire Potatoes list.co.uk One Potato Two Potato

A milder climate in Ayrshire helps grow some of the UK’s finest new potatoes. Malcolm Jack hears why the ‘Ayrshire early’ may even qualify for protected status ew things say spring quite like new potatoes, were a thousand tattie howkers just in the Girvan area and Ayrshire ‘earlies’ – the first tatties to come alone. They would put on special trains from Ayrshire F in to season in Scotland every year – are widely that transported the potatoes all around the UK.’ considered to be among the finest in the UK, possessing Potatoes grow better and faster in Ayrshire because a smooth, sweet, creamy taste and texture unlike any the sea is warmed by the Gulf Stream, meaning a milder other. So much so that a co-op called Girvan Early climate and less frost than occurs inland, while loose, Growers has made a bid for PGI status (Protected sandy soil allows the potatoes to expand more easily Geographical Indication) for the Ayrshire early, with than in clay soil. They’re usually on shop shelves from the hope of putting them in the company of Stornoway around May until July. black pudding and Arbroath smokies, not to mention the Announced at the Royal Highland Show in 2014, the likes of champagne and parmesan cheese, as a product PGI bid is currently being subjected to UK government protected from imitation by EU regulation. and European Commission scrutiny, and they’re hopeful Potatoes have been grown in Ayrshire since around of a favourable decision before the end of 2015. the 1850s, and the early harvest was once a massive ‘I’m pretty confident it’s going to go through,’ enterprise employing thousands of men and women says Jarvis. ‘PGI status recognises that some of the from the south-west of Scotland and beyond. characteristics and the taste of a product derives ‘Towards the end of the 19th century there would be specifically from where it is grown and produced. And I huge amounts of migrant workers every year who went think that definitely applies in this case. Put simply, you there – the tattie howkers as they were known,’ says won’t get a potato tasting quite like an Ayrshire potato Michael Jarvis from Albert Bartlett and Scotty Brand, from anywhere else.’ part of the Girvan Early Growers co-op. ‘In 1910 there ■■scottybrand.com

18 The Ayrshire Larder Kitchen Gardens How does your garden grow? Once, their spoils were the preserve of the landed gentry, but now, as Keith Smith discovers, ‘lost’ walled gardens are providing fruit and vegetables for all

hether it’s the visitor-centre chefs walled garden is being opened up to public use as looking to showcase a property’s allotments. W delights, or nearby residents eager to ‘I’d love to see the walled garden thriving again,’ learn about and practise sustainable eating, the says head gardener Tim Keyworth. ‘Much of the demand for locally grown, good-quality produce area had been overtaken by brambles and other has led to some interesting projects aimed at invasive vegetation and we’ve already done a lot of reinvigorating and reusing these largely forgotten the clearing work. Given the keen interest there is spaces. in gardening at the moment, I am sure there will be At Dumfries House in Cumnock, the restoration people on the island who would savour the chance of the five-acre walled garden, which for years to grow produce on such an historic site as this.’ had been a derelict dumping ground, has been a The Brodick Castle estate is also home to another particular highlight of the estate’s transformation. gardening-related initiative, run by local support One of the biggest of its kind in Scotland, the organisation Arran Community and Voluntary garden now supplies produce to the estate’s Service. restaurant, café and shop, and is also home to the Having taken on an overgrown plot near the one-and-a-half acre education garden (see feature, property’s Shore Lodge in early 2014, it has page 20). renovated the site to create a community garden Over the water in Arran, Brodick Castle’s which offers opportunities for people to build eighteenth-century kitchen garden is undergoing a confidence and skills by participating in shared restoration of its own, as part of the National Trust group activities. It’s an example of just how much of Scotland’s multi-million pound upgrade of the the purpose of these gardens has changed over the castle grounds. years; as well as now filling the pots and bellies of As well as utilising part of the site to grow fruit the wider community, they’re playing an important and vegetables, both for the castle’s café and for part in it’s emotional and cultural well-being too. visitors to take home, a further section of the lower ■■ dumfries-house.org.uk; nts.org.uk; arrancvs.org.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 19 Education list.co.uk Food For Thought

From careers in hospitality and agriculture, to pioneering scientific studies, Keith Smith finds out more about food-related learning and research in Ayrshire and Arran

ens can be clumsy fliers and tend to employment or training. It has a state-of the-art bump into things, which is why smart teaching kitchen and adjoining restaurant, as ‘Hperch design can reduce any risk of well as specialist bartender and barista stations. injury,’ says Vicky Sandilands, senior behaviour Elsewhere on the Dumfries House estate, the and welfare scientist at the Avian Science Pierburg Building and Kauffman Education Research Centre. Whether it’s improving the Gardens give schoolchildren an introduction to digestive efficiency of broilers (meat chickens), healthy eating and food growing, while a model or understanding the spread of campylobacter in farm, set up in partnership with Morrisons, chicken flocks to reduce food poisoning, her team develops sustainable farming techniques. is leading the way in poultry welfare, diet, nutrition Part of the remit of the Galloway and South and food safety. Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve, one of the first The centre is part of Scotland’s Rural College of its kind in the UK, is to develop a greater (SRUC), one of the region’s largest educational understanding of sustainability, countryside providers in the food industry. Students at the Ayr management and food production. campus can take courses in agricultural science, ‘Promoting and encouraging learning horticulture and countryside management. opportunities will be an important part in the At the other end of the food chain, aspiring chefs success of the Biosphere project,’ says Nic can study full-time at Ayrshire College, learning Coombey, community and learning officer at the their trade in one of two training restaurants. The UNESCO-established initiative. ‘The purpose of the college has also partnered with the Turnberry designation is to recognise somewhere as special Hotel to provide workplace-based modern not just because of it’s natural diversity but apprenticeships – a first for the region. because people care for the environment through Likewise, the Belling Hospitality Centre at conservation and sustainable development.’ Dumfries House provides hands-on hospitality ■■ ayrshire.ac.uk, dumfries-house.org.uk/education; experience for 16–24 year-olds not in education, gsabiosphere.org.uk; sruc.ac.uk

20 The Ayrshire Larder Ayrshire Food Round-up An Ayrshire Menu Looking for a taste of Ayrshire? This round-up by Jay Thundercliffe introduces you to what’s grown, reared, made and landed in the region

Further details on many of the businesses shown in bold can be found listed in the Where to Buy section of this guide, with full references for all at thelarder.net

FRUIT & VEG BEEF, LAMB, GAME From the top: Lime Tree Larder, James of Arran, he importance of Scotland’s first AND OTHER MEAT Aye Love Real Food, potatoes each year to see sunlight Wooley’s of Arran T is being backed up by a PGI yrshire’s fertile rolling fields application to have the Ayrshire ‘earlies’ are prime farming land, name protected (see feature, page 18). A producing beef, lamb and pork Girvan Early Growers Ltd is a of exceptional quality. Dalduff Farm cooperative of farmers and companies, is a butchers dedicated to local meat, including the mighty Albert Bartlett and including lamb from Ballantrae and pork Scotty Brand, dedicated to getting their from Ardrossan, creating top-quality cuts spuds – often regarded as the UK’s and other meaty ready meals from its best – out the ground as soon as spring farm shop and kitchen. Other producers is sprung. Over on Arran, Robin’s rear their own such as Nethergate Herbs ships its herbs, salad leaves and Larder (see Chef’s Choice, page 33), other vegetables (see interview, page whose rare-breed pigs and cattle on its 12) to some of the best restaurants on farm near Dunlop go into top-quality the mainland, including Andrew Fairlie sausages and bacon made on site, and at Gleneagles. Another Arran producer Auchengree Farm, whose farm shop is Arran Fine Foods, whose range of stocks produce from the farm and home- mustards, preserves and chutneys can be made pies and sausages. Also farming found across Scotland and beyond. and butchering is Cairnhill Farms, and GC Growers by Girvan, provides its retail arm We Hae Meat, which rears seasonal, Ayrshire-grown veg to local its cattle and pigs in the Girvan Valley outlets and farmers’ markets, where and sells its meat and other products you’ll also find stalls of homegrown online and at Dowhill Country Fayre fruit and veg, along with eggs, chutney farm shop in Turnberry. and other items from Rhone Cottage. Another company dedicated to Prestwick’s grocer WA & E Grant all things pork is Robertsons Fine supplies veg boxes, delivered free in Foods, run by the great-grandsons of the the surrounding area, or for collection founder, they deal in the whole pig from from their shop. For organic produce, green and smoked bacon to ribs, houghs Drumullan Organics produces fruit and whole backs. Thomsons Square and vegetables on its farm near Girvan. Sausage needs little explanation about EverythingChilli, based in Fenwick, the much-loved Scottish breakfast creates a range of sweet and savoury item it produces (see page 8). West of preserves featuring the spicy pepper. Ochiltree is Tarelgin Farm Foods & Alison Stokes’s Splendid Soups and Smokehouse, producing all manner Such specialises in quality homemade of traditional meats, haggis, sausages soups as well as preserves and chutneys and smoked products – watch for its made on the Auchincruive Estate near mobile smoker at farmers’ markets Ayr. and events. JW Kay & Co has been

The Ayrshire Larder 21 Ayrshire Food Round-up list.co.uk

farming near Straiton for over a hundred smokehouse on Arran, while Ardtaraig years, producing beef and lamb from Fine Foods is a long-standing specialist its blackface sheep. Another blackface supplying a range of Scottish gourmet specialist is Glenkiln Farm at Lamlash products including traditionally smoked on Arran (see Chef’s Choice, page 29). Scottish salmon, fresh oysters and Cedar Cottage Country Foods are various hampers and gift boxes. stalwarts of the local farmers’ markets From the top: Woody’s with their meat selection including Ice Cream, Ardtaraig Highland Beef and meat pies. BREAD, CAKES AND Fine Foods, Dowhill Braehead Foods CHOCOLATE Farm, Arran Fine Foods near Kilmarnock has grown from a small game supplier cotland’s sweet tooth is well to provider of produce to some of the catered for in the region. country’s top chefs, from game gathered S The Dessert Depot and on estates around Scotland to meat, sister operation the Handmade poultry and purpose-made sauces, stock Cheesecake Company have won and terrines. Its offshoot, the Scottish Great Taste Awards for their range, while Charcuterie Company, produces a Baking Sinsations offers various range of salami and air-dried meats made cakes ranging from cupcakes to wedding from Scottish ingredients (see page 8). cakes from its base near Coalhall. Aye Love Real Food can be found Mary’s Marvellous Munchables’ at farmers’ markets and other events range of home-baking and preserves can selling its rare-breed pork and haggis and be found at farmers’ markets in the area. black pudding Scotch eggs (see Chef’s For discerning cake-eaters Petrie Fine Choice, page 33), using free-range eggs Foods produces vegetarian and gluten- sourced from Corrie Mains Eggs, free products, including festive cakes near Mauchline. Another egg producer is and puddings, as well as savoury items. Scotlay Eggs, which sources its free- Wooleys of Arran has been baking range eggs from various producers as on the island since the mid 1800s and well as the chickens on its own farm near produces a range of speciality oatcakes. Maybole. KellyBronze Scotland near With all the family helping out, Stewarton is home to the award-winning Creative Chocolate offers a range of bronze turkey breed, with all birds luxury treats from its base at Stewarton. hatched and reared on its 50-acre farm All That’s Delicious produce cookie and supplied to butchers and customers mixes and tablet near Kilwinning, and across Scotland. from the farm near Kilbirnie, Lime Tree Larder produces a range of confections as well as its ice cream (see FISH & SHELLFISH page 6), and has workshops to help you ith over 100 miles of coastline, make your own, while Threepwood the waters around Arran Fayre sells handmade chocolates and W and off Ayrshire’s coast are sugary confections at various markets teeming with seafood. Much of it is and events. Hotelier Costley and some of the finest shellfish – particularly Costley creates handmade chocolates langoustines, while oysters from the for sale at its patisseries. Over on island of Cumbrae also carry a strong the island is the Arran Chocolate reputation. Fencebay Fisheries (see Factory, whose tradename James of feature, page 10), based in Fairlie, has a Arran offers a range of sweets for the farm shop and hosts a farmers’ market, discerning chocolate fan. while producing smoked goods in its smokehouse from the catch from local waters. HQ Shellfish (see page 10) DAIRY are Ardrossan-based fishermen, catching ew regions can offer the farm to lobsters, crab and mackerel. Creelers cheese fork – or ice-cream spoon sell smoked and fresh fish from their F – that Ayrshire does, thanks to 22 The Ayrshire Larder Ayrshire Food Round-up

Scottish Charcuterie Company > AYRSHIRE ICE CREAM TRAIL

For an area with such a rich history in dairy farming, it’s little wonder ice-cream making is booming. In the north west there’s Nardini’s of Largs, and also Geraldo’s on Largs High Street, the Lime Tree Larder near Glengarnock, Sorbie Farm Dairies outside of Ardrossan and Wester Highgate Farmhouse Ice Cream the region’s famous brown-and-white WHISKY, BEER AND near Beith. cows, officially named the Ayrshire OTHER DRINKS In the countryside (see page 6). At Dunlop Dairy near further south you’ll Stewarton, Ann Dorward uses milk from pirits have a strong presence find Woody’s ice- her small herd of Ayrshire cows to make in the region, with William cream at Killoch cheeses including traditional Ayrshire S Grant & Sons’ Girvan and Farm, Galston, Dunlop. Also using its own Ayrshires is Ailsa Bay distilleries producing lowland Ayrshire Farmhouse Barwheys Dairy of Maybole, whose grain whisky as well as Hendrick’s gin ice-cream near unpasteurised milk goes into its hard (see page 17). The Arran Distillery is Mauchline, and cheese (see page 39). a rare independent operation, producing Costley’s ice-cream On the island, Arran Dairies Ltd single malts, blends and a cream liqueur at Souter’s Inn in produces unhomogenised milk from at its distillery and visitor centre at Kirkoswald. cows grazed on the grasslands of southern Lochranza. In Ayr, there’s the Arran. As well as milk and cream, it also Beer lovers can enjoy a taste of the veteran Italian family produces ice cream (see page 6). Arran is region thanks to the Arran Brewery gelato dynasties also home to some potent cheesemaking and the Ayr Brewing Company (see Renaldo’s and with the family-run Island Cheese feature, page 14), both of which have Mancini’s, while Company whose range of cheeses been decorated with multiple awards. Kilmarnock has one in under the Arran Cheese Shop banner are Ethical Ales, based at Roddenloft the form of Varani’s. a common sight in delis and farm shops Brewery near Mauchline, are the most You can even get a across the country, while the Bellevue recently established local craft beer good locally made lick Creamery produces Arran Blue, a Great producers, with products including of ice-cream across Taste award-winner, and a brie, Arran Hoppy Daze pilsner and Stag Do stout. the Firth of Clyde on Mist. Another Arran-based cheese Away from the alcoholic creations, Arran, where Arran producer is Torrylinn Creamery Roundsquare Roastery, based above Dairies operates out which creates Isle of Arran cheddar, a coffee shop in Ayr, hand-roasts the of Brodick. including a Dunlop variation, utilising coffee beans that it sources from Direct (Malcolm Jack) milk from three local farms. Trade family-run farms around the globe.

The Ayrshire Larder 23 Map of Ayrshire

AYR AYR Where to Buy list.co.uk

WHERE TO BUY the haddock is hand filleted on the premises daily. In addition to the shops listed below, Ayrshire produce can Fencebay Fisheries be found at local farmers’ Fencefoot Farm, Fairlie KA29 0EG markets (see p.46) or obtained directly from producers featured See main entry on p.35. elsewhere in the guide. Entries are grouped into six geographical Lime Tree Larder areas based around the main Auchencloigh Farm, Lime Tree Larder towns running approximately Kilbirnie KA25 7LJ north to south in Ayrshire. Within 01505 685258, limetreelarder.co.uk each area entries are sorted Fri/Sat noon–5pm. (Sun–Thu: phone alphabetically. in advance.) This smartly converted byre houses an impressive kitchen and visitor AROUND LARGS area dedicated to the art of chocolate. Kids on a party or ladies on a hen do Auchengree Farm can enjoy a hands-on lesson covering Meikle Auchengree Farm, the geography and the history of the Glengarnock KA14 3BU product before making and tasting 01294 834625 chocolate harvested from places like Mon–Fri 10am–5pm; Sat 9.30am– Venezuela, Ghana and the Dominican 5pm, Sun 11am–4.30pm. Republic. They make 100% cocoa Since early 2014 Auchengree has bars, favoured by diabetics, which is been under the new management used in the production of homemade of Ann and Trevor Beckett who ice-cream (other flavours include previously farmed south of the border. passion fruit and blackcurrant). The proper butcher counter sells their own lamb, beef from John Scotts of Nardini’s Paisley and pork from Robertsons of The Esplanade Café, 2 Greenock Saltcoats. It’s all butchered to order, Road, Largs KA30 8NF and the shop also stocks cheese, eggs, See main entry on p.35. chutneys, preserves, oils, homemade pies and baking. Sugar & Spice / Geraldo’s >ONLINE Ice Cream LISTINGS The Bosun’s Table 26-28 Main Street, Largs KA30 8AB Extended write-ups Largs Yacht Haven, Irvine Road, 01475 675200, of all venues, with Largs KA30 8EZ sugar-and-spice.co.uk individual location See main entry on p.35. Mon–Sun 9am–10pm. maps and links at Run by mother and daughter Caroline each entry, can be C Fayre and Toni Dawson, this chocolate found at thelarder.net 25 Aitken Street, Largs KA30 8AT shop on Largs main street has a large Accessible on all 01475 672102, cfayre.co.uk selection of confectionery including devices including Tue–Sat 8.30am–5.30pm. Closed biscuits, old-fashioned sweets, smartphones and Sun/Mon. slabs of branded chocolate and tablets, thelarder.net A traditional family fishmongers gift-wrapped boxes, in addition to a features additional where owner John Watson has been shelf of wine. The chocolate counter listings within greeting regulars by name since 1987. is supplied by the Arran Chocolate Ayrshire and search The fish counter is well stocked with Factory topped up with selected functions for food and haddock (dyed and undyed, whole Belgian makers. Geraldo’s ice-cream drink venues across and fillets) plus smoked salmon and (named for Toni’s father) is made on Scotland. trout pâté. The large pile of Arbroath the premises and often incorporates smokies is particularly appealing, and sweets from the shop.

26 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Buy

AROUND IRVINE unusual expressions and even Japanese producers. For the well-heeled there is Brownings the Bakers a cabinet of collectors’ items with price • 35 Bridgegate, Irvine KA12 8BJ tags to match. Regular tasting sessions are 01294 276160 held on the premises, often led by visiting • 147 High Street, Irvine KA12 8AA master distillers. 01294 273198, browningsbakers.co.uk Both branches: Mon–Sat 8am–4pm. The Kandy Bar Closed Sun. 2 Hamilton Street, See main entry in Around Kilmarnock, Saltcoats KA21 5DS p.29. 01294 463804 Mon–Sat 8am–5pm. Closed Sun. The Jar Troon This independent high street bakery with 33 Ayr Street, Troon KA10 6EB two branches in Saltcoats as well as in 07934 565055, thejartroon.com West Kilbride and Kilwinning, is best Mon/Tue & Thu–Sat 10–6pm. Closed known for its Scotch pies and morning Wed/Sun. rolls. The former won the Scotch Pie A recent welcome addition to Troon’s World Championships in 2014, and plethora of tea shops, this supplier takes the morning rolls were deemed to be whisky seriously. Entering the wood- Scotland’s best in the Scottish Baker panelled shop is a bit like walking into of the Year awards 2014/15. Having a sherry cask, and often the friendly grown from a small sweet shop selling Look out for certified Scotch Butchers Club members owner David Iain Grant will be on hand handmade confections, they also make throughout this guide by looking for the Scotch rosette. To to advise, or even pour samples. There’s bespoke celebration cakes and a full range find your local member, visit www.scotchbutchersclub.org. a very good selection of single malts, of pies, biscuits, cakes and treats.

THE LABELS YOU CAN TRUST For guarantees of farm assurance, taste and quality, it has to be Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork.

Look out for certified Scotch Butchers Club members throughout this guide by looking for the Scotch rosette. To find your local member, visit www.scotchbutchersclub.org

To find out more visit www.scotchbeefandlamb.com and www.speciallyselectedpork.co.uk

The Ayrshire Larder 27 Where to Buy list.co.uk

Robertsons Fine Foods The Arran Chocolate Factory, trading 88 Princes Street, Ardrossan KA22 8DQ as James of Arran, has been producing 01294 463936, handmade chocolates for 15 years. They robertsonsfinefoods.co.uk use chocolate containing no less than Not open to the public; stockists 54% cocoa solids, and supply retailers listed online. and corporate customers throughout Established in 1870 and still owned and Scotland. Chocolates and sweets can run by the Robertson family, Robertsons be ordered from their online shop. The Fine Foods is all about pork: fresh, cured, shop uses cream from Arran Dairies, Dunlop Dairy (page 30) raw, cooked, smoked or unsmoked. and for chocolate-mad visitors, the Traditional bacon is something of a viewing window offers lots of Willie flagship product, with 21 different Wonka inspired fun. products in that line alone. Green and smoked ribs and houghs are available, Arran Fine Foods as are whole backs (green and smoked) The Old Mill, Lamlash KA27 8LE and cooked meats such as gammon, ham, 01770 600606, arranfinefoods.com black pudding and haggis. Mon–Fri 9am–5pm; Sat/Sun 10am–4pm. Sorbie Farm Dairies Arran Fine Foods have operated from Sorbie Farm, Ardrossan KA22 7NP their small factory for nearly 40 years, 01294 605013 when they first started producing Now run by Alan Hogarth, this traditional mustards from a tiny kitchen on the dairy, previously owned by father and island. Now owned by Patterson Arran grandfather, has the motto ‘From Cow Ltd, over time their product range to Door in 24’. They’ve been producing has developed to include relishes, milk since the 1950s and now, instead of chutneys, preserves, marmalades selling to large buyers, they bottle on the and salad dressings, all of which are farm and deliver in glass bottles on an available from the factory shop. The old-fashioned milk float. famous Arran mustard features on nearly every menu all over the island, R Stalker & Son and their ‘Provenance’ range uses local 9 New Street, Dalry KA24 5AH products. 01294 832174 Mon/Tue & Thu–Sun 6am–4pm; Creelers Wed 6am–1pm. Home Farm, Brodick KA27 8DD Stalkers are a family butcher offering See main entry on p.39. advice and unusual cuts of meat on request. With an emphasis on technique, Isle of Arran Brewery they have regular trainee butchers, and Cladach KA27 8DE Ronald Stalker acts as a judge in national 01770 302353, arranbrewery.co.uk training competitions in Scotland. Stalker Apr–Oct: Mon–Sun 10.30am–5pm. is so dedicated to quality that he has a (Nov–Mar: phone ahead.) smallholding to raise his own beef. Established in 1999 and set in the shadow of Brodick Castle, ales are produced here in a micro-brewery ISLE OF ARRAN using traditional production methods. A compact visitors’ centre allows you to The Arran Chocolate Factory watch the process, with tasting included / James of Arran in the price of the tour. The beers are Invercloy, Brodick KA27 8AJ now widely distributed across Scotland 01770 302873, jamesofarran.com but you can buy gift packs from the Mon–Sun 10am–5pm. shop or website. Arran Dark won (Jan–Mar: closed Sun.) World’s Best Dark Brown at the World

28 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Buy

AROUND Beer Awards 2012 and Arran Blonde is CHEF’S CHOICE the best-known of their range. KILMARNOCK GARRY NOBLE ON GLENKILN SPRING Isle of Arran Cheese Shop Afton Glen Meats LAMB Home Farm, Brodick KA27 8DD 8-16 Cross Street, 01770 302788, arranscheeseshop.co.uk Galston KA4 8AL Mon–Sat 9am–5pm; 01563 820343 Sun 10am–4.30pm. Mon–Tue 7am–5pm; Wed 7am–1pm; The Island Cheese Company is a family- Thu–Sat 7am–5pm. Closed Sun. run business established more than 20 ‘We must be doing something right,’ years ago at the home farm of Brodick comments Afton Glen Meats’ owner Iain Castle. They produce 5,000 wax- Holloway, who took over the shop of ten sealed, flavoured and deluxe cheddars a years’ standing on Cross Street in Galston week, for sale in their shop at the farm, two years ago. He bases this modest ‘I’ve tasted lamb from through farmers’ markets, mail order statement on the fact that customers across Scotland and and a number of other outlets including travel from all over the local area to shop I have to say that delicatessens and restaurants throughout with them, and in particular to pick up I’ve never had better the UK. one of Afton’s homemade steak pies, of than Kenny Bone’s which the shop can sell hundreds in any Blackface spring Torrylinn Creamery given week. Don’t expect anything fancy lamb from Glenkiln Kilmory KA27 8PH here, but sausages, burgers, mince and Farm. It’s produced 01770 870240, firstmilk.co.uk plenty of those pies are all done to the right here in Lamlash, Apr–Oct: Mon–Sat 10am–3pm. same consistently good standard upon where it’s also hung Nov–Mar: closed Wed & Sat. which their reputation was established and then we actually Opened by King George VI in 1947, the and continues to grow. butcher it ourselves Torrylinn Creamery on the southern tip on the premises. of the Isle of Arran still crafts its cheese Borlands Deli It couldn’t get by hand. Owned by First Milk, Scotland’s 1/5 Main Street, Stewarton KA3 5BS any fresher and it’s largest dairy farmers’ co-operative, 01560 482883 great to be involved it is home to Isle of Arran cheddar Mon–Fri 8.30am–4pm; Sat 8.30am– from so early on the (isleofarrancheese.co.uk). Made using 3.30pm. Closed Sun. process right through milk from three local farms, variations Dawn Borland’s busy deli is situated right to when it hits the include Isle of Arran dunlop and an extra in the centre of Stewarton and is a hub plate. Blackface lambs mature cheddar, which are sold through for those looking for a takeaway lunch of are well-known for supermarkets. The Creamery has a mini sandwiches, homemade soup and home their rich flavour and visitor centre and an on-site shop. baking. The shelves and chiller are well are also well-suited stocked with local produce such as ice- to life on the hills so Wooleys of Arran creams, ready meals from nearby Dalduff Arran’s geography Invercloy, Brodick KA27 8AJ Farm, Scottish smoked salmon and cheese brings out the best 01770 302280, wooleys.co.uk from Dunlop Dairy. in them as they can Mon–Sat 7am–5pm. Closed Sun. feed on the greenest Wooleys have been in Brodick as long Brownings the Bakers grass high up on the as anyone can remember. Their oatcakes Block 1, Bonnyton Industrial Estate, hills. We have it on find their way to the deli-counters and Kilmarnock KA1 2NP the menu whenever restaurant tables of Glasgow, Edinburgh 01563 522685, browningsbakers.co.uk it is available: either and beyond. To islanders and island Mon–Fri 6am–2pm. Closed Sat/Sun. as a confit shoulder, a visitors though, it’s a popular local bakery • Other branches in Kilmarnock, rack or best end cut. offering fine baking to match their famed Stewarton and Irvine. The result is always a oatcakes. Haggis pies, steak slices and Brownings the Bakers, the largest bakery wonderful dish.’ bridies all use locally sourced Arran meat, in the west of Scotland, is at the heart of ■■ Garry Noble is head while recent additions to their range of baking in Ayrshire. Its doors opened in chef at the Drift Inn, loaves include speciality breads such as 1945 and today it’s still a family business Lamlash (see page 39). rosemary and olive. with the founder’s son, John Gall, at the

The Ayrshire Larder 29 Where to Buy list.co.uk

helm. Brownings has eight shops across in the farm shop or sampled in the rustic the region with a factory shop and large tearoom where a range of sandwiches bakery supplying the wholesale market and the ploughman’s lunch showcase the and hospitality industry. Along with farm’s main product. all the traditional bakery favourites, Brownings makes the famous Kilmarnock Fenwick Fine Foods football pie, ‘The Killie Pie’, which 28 Main Road, Fenwick, boasts its own Facebook page. Kilmarnock KA3 6AH 01560 601105, fenwickfinefoods.co.uk Fenwick Fine Foods Catrine House Coffee Shop, Tue–Fri 10am–5pm; Sat 10am–4pm; Ice Cream Parlour & Farm Sun 11.30am–4pm. Closed Mon. Shop Despite being just a few minutes from Mauchline KA5 5JY the busy M77, Fenwick Fine Foods has See main entry on p.40. all the appeal expected of a welcoming village café and delicatessen. As well as Corrie Mains Farm the varied selection of sandwiches and Sorn Road, Mauchline KA5 6HN soup, there are platters offering Scottish 01290 550338, smoked salmon, house pâté, cheeses, real-free-range-eggs.co.uk olives and crusty bread. The deli reflects Mon–Sun 8am–8pm (honesty box). owner Graeme Colville’s support for Jim and Anne Smillie supply top quality small artisan Scottish producers. Local free-range eggs to customers throughout produce includes cheeses, eggs, honey the central belt of Scotland. Established and café manager Mrs B’s chilli jam. in 1996 with 800 hens, the flock has increased to 20,000 and has been joined Mamita’s Coffee House by ducks, geese and quails. The birds are 37 Bank Street, K kept in small colonies and are allowed to ilmarnock KA1 2ER forage freely on the farm during daylight See main entry on p.40. hours and roost at night in traditional wooden houses. Eggs are available Nethergate Larder from the farm seven days a week and Nethergate Farm, Dunlop KA3 4BU at farmers’ markets in Ayrshire and 01560 480461 Glasgow. Goose eggs are available on a Mon–Fri 8am–3pm. Closed Sat/Sun. seasonal basis from February to June. On the hills above Dunlop, Thomson and Arlene McKenzie rear small herds Dunlop Dairy of rare-breed pigs, lambs and cattle. West Clerkland Farm, Their choice of native and primitive Stewarton KA3 5LP breeds, including White Park cattle, 01560 482494, dunlopdairy.co.uk Tamworth, Gloucester Old Spot and Mon–Sun 9am–5pm. Saddleback pigs along with Badger Anne Dorward has been making her Face sheep, are recognised for their award-winning cheeses since 1989, hardiness and thus are particularly reinvigorating a traditional 17th-century well suited to the Scottish climate. The recipe for Dunlop cheese on her West McKenzies’ commitment to animal Clerkland farm. Using milk from her welfare at every stage and the addition own Ayrshire cows and a mixed herd of of an on-site butchery ensures they Sanans and Toganberg goats, Dorward provide a fully traceable farm-to-fork produces a range of eight cheeses service to their customers. including the traditional Dunlop cheddar, which at the time of going to press was No. 1 Avenue Larder on the brink of securing PGI (Protected 1 Avenue Square, Stewarton KA3 5AB Geographical Indication) status. All the 01560 486890 cheeses are vegetarian and can be bought Mon–Sat 8am–5.30pm. Closed Sun.

30 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Buy

This shop has all the charm of a rustic 1903. Quality Scotch beef, pork and CHEF’S CHOICE KEITH BRAIDWOOD French delicatessen, with counters lamb are sourced from local markets and ON LOCAL LOBSTER dedicated to rare-breed pork, lamb McFarlane makes his own steak pies and and beef from the owners’ Nethergate sausages. Farm in nearby Dunlop. Alongside the top quality meats, there are steak pies, Woody’s pork pies, sausages and bacon, all made Ayrshire Glen, Killoch Farm, with Nethergate meat by owner Arlene Galston KA4 8NL McKenzie to an exacting standard. 01290 553524, woodysicecream.co.uk Although all the meat is prepacked for Mon–Fri 8.30am–5pm. sale, the owners will happily supply Closed Sat/Sun. orders to customer requirements. There Killoch Farm in the heart of Ayrshire ‘We recently is also a selection of Scottish cheese, is home to Woody’s ice-cream. Jill discovered HQ local eggs, honey and rapeseed oil along Woodburn and her family produce Shellfish, literally with a range of pottery and tableware. more than 50 varieties of ice-cream, on our doorstep fresh fruity sorbets and almost fat-free selling lobster caught Pollok Williamson Family frozen yoghurts. Made daily in small from Ardrossan to Butchers batches, with creamy milk from their Portencross, which 21 The Foregate, herd of Ayrshire cows, Jill says this is eight miles from Kilmarnock KA1 1LU ensures customers get the freshest Braidwoods. Two 01563 522086, ice-cream with a handmade touch in brothers with their pollokwilliamson.co.uk every tub. Scottish-themed flavours dad’s boat started See main entry in Around Ayr, p.33. include Crunchie McCallum and catching lobster in sticky McNab, although the range also homemade creels Varani’s Forum Café includes traditional favourites such as then when one of the 37 High Glencairn Street, rum and raisin, vanilla pod and choc fishermen from that Kilmarnock KA1 4AE mint chip. Although there’s no farm patch decided to pack 01563 525982 shop, customers are welcome to call at it in they decided it Mon–Sun noon–9pm. Killoch Farm to pick up a tub. Further was time to take it Famous for its low-fat ice-cream, Varani’s afield in the Ayrshire area, the products seriously. was opened in 1937 by the uncle and are stocked in local Spar shops, Dobbies Now, three years father of current owner, Ricardo Varani. and several tearooms. on, they have 150 Along with the classic vanilla ice-cream, creels and are there are another 49 flavours on sale hoping to expand every day. These change regularly to meet AROUND AYR into langoustine and customer demand and Ricardo is always diving for scallops. developing new concoctions to add to the Ardtaraig Fine Foods We get them twice a range. Unusual flavours such as Bakewell Riverslea, Annbank KA6 5HX week very much alive tart, red cola, lemon meringue pie and 01292 521000, and kicking, and the Scottish macaroon sit alongside original ardtaraigfinefoods.co.uk boys much prefer favourites raspberry ripple, mint choc Not open to the public; online only. to sell locally than chip and strawberry. Strictly an online and mail-order export commercially. business these days, Ardtaraig Fine Keeping it simple we Wm Allan & Son Foods – based in a crook of the River just grill them with a 1 High Street, Stewarton KA3 5BP Ayr near Annbank – is a small family- drizzle of Montpellier 01560 482526, allanthebutchers.co.uk owned company of 35 years’ standing butter.’ Mon/Tue 8am–5pm; Wed 8am–1pm; specialising in creating gift packages ■■ Keith Braidwood Thu–Sat 8am–5pm. Closed Sun. or hampers of the finest fresh Scottish is co-owner/chef at Alasdair McFarlane is the fifth generation produce for shipment Europe-wide. Braidwoods, Dalry (see of his family to be in charge at this The business sources from across the page 36). For more traditional and friendly family butcher country, including Arran cheeses, Argyll on local seafood see which has been supplying the local area, venison, smoked salmon, kippers, page 10. including hotels and restaurants, since rainbow trout and oysters.

The Ayrshire Larder 31 Where to Buy list.co.uk

Corney & Barrow of locally reared beef, lamb and pork. 8 Academy Street, Ayr KA7 1HT Steaks, chops, mince rounds and pies 01292 267000, corneyandbarrow.com are all available alongside homemade Mon–Fri 10am–5.30pm; frozen meals including luxury lasagne Sat 10am–5.30pm. Closed Sun. or beef olives in onion gravy. They will London, Edinburgh, Hong Kong and, deliver around the west of Scotland, or yes, Ayr. The south-west Scotland branch customers can pop in to the Maybole farm of this high-end international wine shop or buy from the Dalduff counter at merchants might look like the odd one out nearby Dobbies. Catering is available. J Pieroni and Sons on paper, but in fact this premises with its magnificent 250-year-old cellars – Dobbies Farm Foodhall formerly Whighams of Ayr until a merger Old Toll, Ayr KA6 5JJ with Corney & Barrow in 1994 – is one 01292 294750, dobbies.com of the longest-established wine merchants Mon–Sun 9am–6pm. in the UK, set up in 1766 to supply the The Farm Foodhall situated within many great houses and estates in the Dobbies Garden World on the western surrounding area. Knowledgeable staff edge of Ayr has an extensive food range will help you negotiate a head-spinning including fresh vegetables, a wide range of clarets, burgundies and New delicatessen section, biscuits, jams and World gems to find something suited to chutneys. Adding significantly to the local your taste and budget, and can also assist flavour, Dalduff butchers of Maybole with bottle storage, wine tastings and have a concession within the site, selling event supply. their range of fresh farm meat, sausages, burgers and pies. Costley’s Patisserie & Chocolatier WA & E Grants 158 Main Street, Prestwick KA9 1PB 30A Main Street, Prestwick KA9 1NX 01292 473773, costleyspatisserie.com 01292 476117, grantsofprestwick.co.uk Mon–Sun 9am–9pm. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm. Closed Sun. The Costley and Costley group includes With some seven decades in the business, a string of hotels, bars and restaurants Grants are expert providers of fruit and around Ayrshire, as well as two vegetables to the wholesale and retail patisserie-café-restaurants in Prestwick trade across Ayrshire and beyond, as well >ONLINE and Kirkoswald – the latter, previously as serving customers in their Prestwick called the House of Burns, reopened shop. They sell fruit and veg from the LISTINGS as Souter’s Inn in January 2014 after a local area when in season with ties to Extended write-ups major fire. Chocolates can be bought many local growers, as well as stocking of all venues, with online for postal delivery; cakes, ready products and ingredients from Ayrshire individual location meals and ice-cream can be bought online and Arran’s many food producers, maps and links at and collected from either patisserie. including oatcakes, preserves, cakes each entry, can be Hand-made at Prestwick, chocolates and more. Recent accolades include found at thelarder.net come in crowd-pleasing flavours: sea picking up the top national award in the Accessible on all salt caramels, coffee & Baileys truffles, fresh produce category at the Scottish devices including passion fruit centred or hazelnut praline. Independent Retail Awards 2015. smartphones and tablets, thelarder.net Dalduff Farm Shop Jane’s Delicatessen features additional Crosshill, Maybole KA19 7PU 25 High Street, Maybole KA19 7AB listings within 01655 740271, dalduff.co.uk 01655 883444 Ayrshire and search Mon–Fri 8.30am–4pm; Sat 8am–1pm. Mon–Fri 7am–5pm; Sat 7am–4pm. functions for food and Closed Sun. Closed Sun. drink venues across Originally a sheep farm with a handful of Jane’s Delicatessen in the heart of Scotland. crops, Dalduff is best known now for its Maybole village stocks a variety of farm kitchen and shop offering a range Scottish food including many products

32 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Buy

sourced locally in Ayrshire and Arran. J Pieroni and Sons Ltd > BEER AND They bake French bread and pastries 47 Peebles Street, Ayr KA8 8DP WHISKY every day, adding to a range of foodstuffs 01292 265532, pieronis.com FESTIVALS from around the world. They specialise in Tue/Wed 8am–4pm; Thu/Fri 8am– locally produced meats and cheeses, and 4.30pm. Sat 8am–1pm. they can create bespoke hampers for a Closed Sun/Mon. special gift or cater for functions. A double-winner at the 2015 Scottish Independent Retail Awards, Pieroni Kirkmichael Community & Sons was started as a family-run Shop and Jock’s Café fishmongers by the current owners’ 24 Patna Road, Kirkmichael KA19 7PJ grandfather in 1948. Over the years it Ayrshire Beer 01655 750499, kirkmichael.org.uk has grown to employ around 40 people Festival Mon–Fri 7.45am–5.30pm; as a wholesale importer and exporter Hosted by Troon Sat/Sun 8am–4pm. of whole or processed white fish, fresh Concert Hall, usually in An impressive community effort, this or frozen, and shellfish. They’ve also October, the CAMRA- not-for-profit grocer, general store begun smoking their own premium-grade endorsed event has been and café is run by Kirkmichael for salmon and haddock. The shop next to in action for over 15 Kirkmichael – or more accurately by their processing premises in Ayr town years, showcasing beers Kirkmichael volunteers for locals and centre offers a range of products aside from across the local visitors to the conservation village. from seafood, including poultry, game area and Scotland. Locally sourced products include honey and a wide selection of frozen goods. ■■ ayrshirebeerfestival. and jams, Dalduff meat, Glenlochrie co.uk, @TroonBeerFest free-range eggs, Barwhey’s cheese, Pollok Williamson Family Woody’s ice-cream and seasonal fruit, Butchers Whisky an’ a’ vegetables and plants from the village 23 High Street, Ayr KA7 1LU That Festival gardens. Bulk orders are taken for all of 01292 611528 Held in Ayr Town Hall the above, as well as general groceries. Unit 4, Glaisnock Shopping in June, local whisky The café runs a menu of very reasonably Centre, Townhead Street, Cumnock merchant Robbie’s priced homemade cakes, light lunches KA18 1EL Drams (see p.34) hosts and snacks, to eat in or take away, 01290 420391 a selection from more all baked on-site by café manager Isi 27 Mount Oliphant Crescent, than 30 whisky suppli- Nimmo. It’s a wonderful find, and a Ayr KA7 3EN ers, with opportunities helpful pit-stop to know about just off 01292 611558, pollokwilliamson.co.uk to purchase rare bot- the A77. All branches: Mon–Sat 7am–5pm. tlings and new releases, Closed Sun. with talks from experts. Mancini’s of Ayr Operating for 38 years as a local family ■■ robbieswhisky 11–15 New Road, Ayr KA8 8DA butcher owned by Stewart Duguid, Pollok merchants.com 01292 263058, mancinisicecream.co.uk Williamson is a well-recognised name on Mon–Sun 10am–9.30pm. the Ayrshire food scene with four stores Arran Malt & Scots-Italian company Mancini’s has been in the area. They’re famed for their pies, Music Festival in business for more than 100 years and and particularly for their haggis – one Taking place at the Isle four generations, trading out of the same of the best-loved to be found in Burns of Arran Distillery in shop at 11 New Road, Ayr, continuously country, which sells around the UK and June, Highlights include since 1925. Among around 200 varieties as far afield as France. They also do a The White Stag dinner, of dairy and non-dairy ice-cream and significant trade online. folk musicians and a fresh fruit sorbets, plus various Italian ceilidh on Saturday frozen desserts, experimental flavours Renaldo’s evening. There are also can include such intriguingly named 98 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BX talks, masterclasses and inventions as Sexy Chocolate, Blushing 01292 265956, renaldos.co.uk a ‘survivor’s lunch’ on Bride and Toffee Rippled Earthquake Mon–Sat 9am–9pm; Sun 10am–9pm. Sunday. Crumble. Drop in on Burns’ Night and An Ayr institution based at the top of the ■■ arranwhisky.com; you might even get to sample haggis- Sandgate since the 1920s, old-school arranevents.com flavoured ice-cream. family-owned Italian ice-cream shop

The Ayrshire Larder 33 Where to Buy list.co.uk

Renaldo’s continues to thrive in an own fish, meat and vegetable products. increasingly competitive market under the Smokehouse and butchery taster packs stewardship of husband-and-wife team are available, as well as bespoke gift Linda and Silvio Galli. Their traditional hampers. vanilla gelato, made with full-cream milk and no additives or preservatives, remains their flagship product. If it’s a lick of AROUND GIRVAN something more exotic you seek, their flavours can include red cola, bubblegum Dowhill Country Fayre Dowhill Country Fayre and creamy McCallum crunch. Dowhill Farm, Turnberry, Girvan KA26 9JP Robbie’s Drams 01655 331 517, dowhillfarm.co.uk 3 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BG Mon–Sat 9.30am–4.30pm; 01292 262135, Sun 10am–4.30pm. robbieswhiskymerchants.com Located just off the A77 on the Mon–Sun 10am–10pm; southbound approach to Girvan, Dowhill Sun noon–10pm. Country Fayre shop offers a wealth of Founded in 1984 and re-launched in 2003, locally sourced supplies. As well as an Robbie’s Drams is one of Ayr’s leading array of chutneys, crackers and Ayrshire- whisky shops. It’s an independently made chocolates, this smartly presented run family business stocking hundreds venue also sells homemade frozen ready of single malts, blends, grain whiskies meals including lentil soup, chilli and and bourbons from all over the world lamb casserole. The chilled section is (but mostly Scotland). They do monthly well stocked with fresh local meats, special offers, collectors’ items, limited- pies, terrines and cheeses while the fresh edition bottlings, closed and silent vegetables, grown onsite, look hearty and distillery bottlings, their own range of wholesome. See entry in the Where to Eat single-cask bottlings and everything in section, p.43. between. A good sample of Robbie’s very discerning inventory is always available AD Rattray Whisky to browse in their web shop. Owner Experience and Whisky Shop Robin Russell also founded and continues 32 Main Road, Kirkoswald KA19 8HY to organise Ayr’s annual Whisky An’ A’ 01655 760308, adrattray.com That festival. Apr–Sep: Mon–Sat 10am–6pm; Sun noon–5pm. Tarelgin Farm Foods & Located in the quiet village of Smokehouse Kirkoswald, the distinctive smell of West Tarelgin Farm, Coalhall KA6 6NF whisky is apparent throughout the 01292 590590, tarelgin.com venue. With a working sample room Mon–Sat 8am–4.30pm; and private collection on display, there Sun 10am–2.30pm. is plenty to learn and for those intent on Started by two partners with 80 years starting their own collection, there is an of farming and butchering experience impressive selection of distillery branded between them, Tarelgin’s shop offers and specialist malts to buy, including an antidote to the major supermarket limited-edition casks to bottle on site. experience. Set in 280 acres of lush green Whisky tastings are available from £20 pasture three miles west of Ochiltree, per person, with staff on hand to offer they create all their products – including expert advice. sausages, black pudding, haggis and steak pies – on-site in their purpose-built premises using quality local ingredients and traditional methods. They also have a smokehouse where they smoke their

34 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Eat

CHEF’S CHOICE WHERE TO EAT Fencebay Fisheries is a food chain in its own right. There is a farm shop selling a TYRON ELLUL ON Listings of Ayrshire’s best options CREEL FISHING IN range of foods produced by local Ayrshire SOUTHWEST for eating out, including daytime farmers, fishermen and country folk. SCOTLAND cafés, takeaways, casual bistros and formal restaurants. Entries Their smokehouse produces a number of are grouped into six geographical smoked goods, utilising the local waters areas based around the main for their harvest of fish and seafood. At towns running approximately their restaurant, The Catch at Fins, head north to south in Ayrshire. Within chef Gary Brown serves up highlights each area entries are sorted from the waters including hot and cold alphabetically. seafood platters, fishcakes, classic fish and chips and oysters. Prices are ‘In the early days of reasonable given the quality and freshness spring the waters AROUND LARGS of the seafood, demonstrating that the round our local shores minimal journey from sea to service is a start to get busy with The Bean and Leaf pay-off for diners. small fishing boats 6 The Promenade, Largs KA30 8BG heading out to drop 01475 670066, thebeanandleaf.co.uk Nardini’s their creels, mainly Mon–Sun 9am–4.30pm. The Esplanade Café, for lobsters and A modern, family-run café and restaurant 2 Greenock Road, Largs KA30 8NF crabs. Creel fishing, in the centre of Largs, the emphasis here 01475 689300, nardinis.co.uk also known as potting, is on all-ages friendliness in an informal, Restaurant: Mon–Thu noon–9.30pm; is a “static” form of homely atmosphere. Cooked breakfasts Fri/Sat noon–9.45pm; Sun 12.30– fishing, meaning that until noon are followed by lunches and 9.30pm. Café: Mon–Sun 9am–9pm. the pots are dropped light bites. Their local sourcing includes Established in 1935 and refurbished in from the boat to the the west coast and Ayrshire gammon 2008 to make the most of its impressive sea bed and they stay served with caramelised pineapple or a Art Deco design, Nardini’s ice-cream there until collected fried egg, as well as fish straight off the parlour and café/restaurant is one of by the fisherman. It’s boat in Largs. Ayrshire’s most iconic diners. Set on the a very sustainable waterfront in the heart of Largs, the main way of fishing. The Bosun’s Table selling point is probably still director The creel fishing Largs Yacht Haven, Irvine Road, David Equi’s 32-flavour ice-cream menu, season goes on until Largs KA30 8EZ although pastry chef Mario Risi’s home- late autumn or early 01475 689198, bosunstable-largs.co.uk baked Italian cakes and the in-house winter, depending on Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat/Sun 8am–5pm. branch of the connected Tony Macaroni the weather. Warmer This informal café serves breakfasts, Italian restaurant chain run it close. conditions over the lunch (burgers, baked potatoes, gammon There’s a good-value fish tea and some summer make it steaks and locally landed haddock inventive ice-cream sundaes, while a live easier for fishermen, are favourites) and milkshakes and band plays every Friday night. not only because ice-creams for the sweet-toothed and of more favourable the younger shipmate. On Friday and Scotts Bar & Restaurant weather conditions Saturday evenings during the summer Largs Yacht Haven, Irvine Road, for going out to sea, the service becomes more bistro-style, Largs KA30 8EZ but also because making a feature of local seafood and 01475 686684, scotts-largs.co.uk lobsters and crabs steaks, while the deli sells meats, cheeses Sun–Thu 9am–9pm, Fri/Sat 9am–10pm. move closer to the and regular provisions through the week. Located right on the marina, the building shores to warmer is fresh and modern, with a heated waters to spawn their The Catch at Fins Restaurant outdoor terrace which is designed for eggs.’ Fencebay Fisheries, Fencefoot Farm, all-year dining. The menu is a versatile ■■ Tyron Ellul is head Fairlie KA29 0EG selection of old favourites and more chef at Glenapp Castle, 01475 568918, fencebay.co.uk diverse dishes. Steaks, sharing plates of Ballantrae (see page Thu–Sat noon–3pm, 6-9pm; fish, meat, tapas and some plancha-grilled 44). Sun noon–3pm. seabass, salmon or prawns are features.

The Ayrshire Larder 35 Where to Eat list.co.uk

The Orangery at Seamill Braidwoods Hydro Drumastle Mill Cottage, Ardrossan Road, Seamill, Saltcoats Road, by Dalry KA24 4LN West Kilbride KA23 9ND 01294 833544, braidwoods.co.uk 01294 822217, Tue 7–9pm; Wed–Sat noon–1.45pm, orangery-ayrshire.co.uk 7–9pm; Sun noon–1.45pm. Mon–Sun 9.30am–10pm. Closed Mon. [May–Sept: closed Sun]. The Orangery is a well-regarded fine- Down a quiet farm track you will find a dining restaurant which makes a feature 220-year-old converted cottage where Scotts Bar & Restaurant of its al fresco terrace overlooking the Keith and Nicola Braidwood have Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran. quietly been overachieving for the past Pasta and pizzas are regulars at lunch, 20 years. Being awarded a Michelin while moules frites and roasted sea star is impressive enough but to keep it bream appear alongside steaks and a for over a decade is down to their hard duo of confit and roasted duck breast at work, dedication and culinary skill. A dinner. melt-in-the-mouth timbale of Arbroath smokies contrasts with horseradish glazed The Waterside leeks, while quail, cooked rose pink, Ardrossan Road, Seamill, comes with aromatic confit legs and a rich West Kilbride KA23 9NG creamy square of potatoes dauphinois. 01294 824414, watersideayrshire.com Caramelised rice pudding on shocking Mon–Sun 9am–10pm. pink champagne-poached rhubarb makes The Waterside is a smart coastal for a pleasing end to a rather special meal. restaurant with fabulous views out across Also see Chef’s Choice, page 31. to Arran. The décor is New England inspired, which follows through into Enzo’s Fish & Chips a menu of seafood featuring the likes 72 Ayr Road, Irvine KA12 8DL of chowder, fish pie and herb-crusted 01294 277333, enzosfishandchips.co.uk scallops. Care has been taken to list local Mon–Thu & Sat/Sun 3–10pm; suppliers on the menu. A 2014 addition Fri noon–10pm. is Si! Shack, which offers fish and chips, Owned by Marco Edge and named after grilled lobster and tempura-battered his son, Enzo’s is a high-flying fish and scallops to take away. chip shop which has garnered a lot of >ONLINE local praise since opening in 2012. Its flashy frontage and uniformed staff LISTINGS AROUND IRVINE combined with a passion for sustainable Extended write-ups fishing gives it the march on local rivals. of all venues, with The Blair Tavern Indeed, recently they were placed in the individual location Lochlibo Road, Auchentiber, dizzying heights of the top five in the maps and links at Kilwinning KA13 7RR National Fish and Chip awards. each entry, can be 01294 850237, theblair.co.uk found at thelarder.net Mon-Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-8pm. Highgrove House Hotel Accessible on all The classy dining room at this traditional Old Loans Road, Troon KA10 7HL devices including roadside inn blends contemporary styling 01292 312511, highgrovehouse.co.uk smartphones and with log beams and roaring fires. The Mon–Sat noon–2.30pm, 5.30–9pm; tablets, thelarder.net menu continues this playful theme where Sun noon–9pm. features additional black pudding, bacon and a tattie scone Looking down from a hilltop behind listings within is described as a salad. Warming country Troon, Highgrove House Hotel rightly Ayrshire and search staples such as lamb’s liver or sausage boasts that its terrace has one of the best functions for food and and ale pie compete with steaks and pork views in Ayrshire, a panorama that takes drink venues across chops. In addition to a good vegetarian in the entire coastline and the Isle of Scotland. choice, they also offer a separate gluten- Arran. The menu has many old-school free menu. standards, like platters of melon and

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chicken liver parfait. To pep things up Piersland House Hotel CHEF’S CHOICE are chilli-spiced bang bang prawns and Craigend Road, Troon KA10 6HD MARK DAVIDSON scallops with barbecue pulled pork. 01292 314747, piersland.co.uk ON NETHERGATE Walker Bar: Mon–Fri noon–2.30pm, LARDER The Kandy Bar 5.30–9pm; Sat noon–2.30pm, 2 Hamilton Street, Saltcoats KA21 5DS 5.30–9.30pm; Sun noon–2.30pm, For main entry see p.27. 5–9pm. Red Bowl Restaurant: Fri/Sat noon–2.30pm, 5.30–9pm; Lochgreen House Hotel Sun noon–9pm. Monktonhill Road, Southwood, This long established four-star country Troon KA10 7EN house hotel in Troon has a number of 01292 313343, lochgreenhouse.com dining options. The Walker Bar hits the ‘Ayrshire is famous The award-winning dining options at traditional homely notes with well- for the quality of the Lochgreen House consist of the fine- appointed furniture and dark wood bacon and pork that dining Tapestry restaurant and the more panelling, while the Red Bowl restaurant it produces and in casual Brodick restaurant. The French- has more of a fine-dining atmosphere. The our opinion nobody influenced fine dining menus incorporate large menu covers fajitas, pasta, burgers does this better than some of Scotland’s best produce, such and steaks from Aberdeenshire-based Nethergate Larder. as west-coast lobster, Orkney scallops, Donald Russell. They breed and rear Ayrshire beef and Highland venison, in free-range Tamworth dishes created with skill and flair. Scotts Bar & Restaurant pigs on their farm Troon Yacht Haven, Troon KA10 6DJ just outside Dunlop MacCallum’s of Troon 01292 315 315, scotts-troon.co.uk where all the animals Harbourside, Troon KA10 6DH Mon–Thu & Sun 8.30am–10pm; are free to roam and 01292 319339 Fri/Sat 8.30am–11pm. live in their natural Tue–Sat noon–2.30pm, 6.30–9.30pm. Scotts must have the best view in town, family groups. The Sun noon–2.30pm. Closed Mon. located on the first floor above the Tamworth is a rare, Sited in an old pumping station, this harbourmaster’s office. The covered traditional breed that harbourside seafood restaurant is run terrace, flooded with light, overlooks the is slow to rear and by fishmongers, with a much-loved fish boats while the bar area and restaurant this helps give it an and chip shop (the Wee Hurrie) next provide a warmer, more grown-up space. amazing flavour. They door. Expect an array of fruits of the The flexible menu offers classic bistro also do all of their sea, unloaded straight from a boat on the dishes with occasional Thai, Mexican and own butchery onsite establishment’s doorstep, and not too Cajun influences. Lobster gratin, seabass which gives them much fussing at all. with sauce vierge or a chateaubriand for total control of the two make for a more substantial supper. product at all stages Old Loans Inn and means they 31-33 Main Street, Troon KA10 7EX The Ship Inn / The Wee Catch can tailor what they 01294 204040, oldloansinn.co.uk 120-122 Harbour Street, provide to meet your Mon–Sun 7am–10pm. Irvine KA12 8PZ business’s needs. Once a traditional 18th-century coaching 01294 279 722, theshipinnirvine.co.uk We’ve used inn, the Old Loans has been completely Mon–Thu noon–9pm; Fri noon– Nethergate Larder transformed by Ayrshire chain Simpsinns 9.30pm; Sat noon–10pm; Sun 11am– from day one as we into a modern boutique hotel with 9pm. (Wee Catch Fri–Sun noon–6pm). genuinely believe character and a contemporary edge. The Irvine’s harbourside inn was built in 1567 that you will not well-regarded restaurant makes a feature and licensed in 1754, making it the oldest find better pork in of local sourcing. Look out for the iconic pub in Irvine. Inside it has the appealing Scotland.’ pairing of Stornoway black pudding feel of a hideaway snug thanks to wood- ■■ Mark Davidson is with Ayrshire bacon, an interesting lined booths and all manner of nooks owner of Aye Love gateau of Ayrshire haggis with neeps and crannies. The menu changes with the Real Food and maker of and tatties, the Cairnhill Farm pork and seasons but you could expect to see pub handmade Scotch eggs, leek sausages with mash, and a beef and favourites of lamb shanks, casseroles and ayeloverealfood.co.uk Arran ale pie. pies. From March to August, Friday to

The Ayrshire Larder 37 Where to Eat list.co.uk

Sunday upstairs becomes The Wee Catch, ISLE OF ARRAN a pop-up fish and chip shop serving beer- battered haddock. Arran Distillery Lochranza, Isle of Arran KA27 8HJ Si! Café Bar Restaurant 01770 830264, arranwhisky.com Kilwinning Road, Irvine KA12 8RU Mid Mar–Oct: Mon–Sat 10am–6pm; 01294 204040, si-restaurant.co.uk Sun 11am–6pm. Sun–Thu 9am–11pm; The light and airy Casks café/bar offers Fri 9am–midnight; Sat 9am-1am. somewhere comfortable to relax after the The Drift Inn A stand-alone building brightly lit from excellent distillery tour or a hike along the outside makes this an easy find in the scenic coast. Skylights display a Irvine. The downstairs bar is eclectically 180-degree swoop of the ever-changing decorated with colourful paintings and Arran sky, the perfect backdrop for patterned tiles, while upstairs opens out to toasted sandwiches, soup or ‘Distillers a large outdoor terrace with views across Platter’ – a selection of smoked salmon, to Arran. The all-day menu proudly boasts ham and cheese with oatcakes, all locally a long list of local suppliers. The 12-hour produced. Rioja-braised feather blade of beef sits alongside free-formed pizzas. Auchrannie Resort Auchrannie Road, Brodick, Two Fat Ladies at the Marine Isle of Arran KA27 8BZ Hotel 01770 302234, auchrannie.co.uk 8 Crosbie Road, Troon KA10 6HE Mon–Sun 7.30am–9.30pm. 01292 676220, The extensive Auchrannie resort has twofatladiesrestaurant.com/marine three distinct restaurants. The Cruize Bar Mon–Fri noon–3pm, 5.30–10pm; Brasserie, housed in the spa resort, is a Sat 12.30–3pm, 5.30–10pm; Sun family-friendly haven with an extensive 12.30–9pm. menu ranging from steaks to salads, This popular restaurant group is well pizza and pastas. At the House Hotel, established in Glasgow, and has now the focus of eighteen69 Scottish Tapas travelled ‘doon the water’, settling in is on sharing small plates of food from a at the grand Marine Hotel in Troon. menu featuring a contemporary spin on Impeccable sourcing and attention to local produce and recipes. The ambiance detail is evident in a tempting menu of in Brambles Seafood & Grill restaurant, ultra-fresh ingredients delivered with particularly at night, is a balance of fine-dining flourishes. And of course there low-lit urban sophistication and relaxed, are views of the famous golf links and fireside comfiness. The surf ’n’ turf menu all-important west-coast waters. features plenty of Scottish – and Arran – produce including fish, and burgers and Zest Restaurant at The Gailes steaks from the grill. Marine Drive, Irvine KA11 5AE 01294 204040, gaileshotel.com Café Thyme & The Old Byre Mon–Sun 7am–10pm. Showroom Decorated in contemporary style with Auchencar, Machrie, walnut wood finishes and with its own Isle of Arran KA27 8EB outdoor terrace, Gailes offers an extensive 01770 840608, oldbyre.co.uk menu. Panini, sandwiches and baked Mon–Thu & Sun 10am–5pm; Fri/Sat potatoes are served throughout the day. 10am–10pm. The main menu fuses the anticipated Café Thyme sits in an idyllic spot steaks, chicken, pasta and curry dishes overlooking rolling fields and sea. The with the more distinctive such as a salmon menu is inspired by owner Hamza saltimbocca of fish wrapped in Parma Gunaydi’s Turkish heritage, with ham and sage leaves. stone-baked ‘pides’, boat-shaped pizzas,

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filled with tuna and anchovies, olives, The Drift Inn CHEF’S CHOICE spinach and spring onion, lots of thyme Lamlash, Isle of Arran KA27 8JN JACQUES TROQUET and mozzarella and even haggis – it’s a 01770 600608, driftinnarran.com ON SCOTTISH LOBSTER genuine fusion of cuisines. There are also Mon–Sun noon–9pm. lamb options, using the very lamb raised With a stunning view of the Holy Isle, in the fields around the farmhouse, and warm fires in winter and barbecues in the salads are homegrown. summer, this relaxed village pub offers a generous selection of craft beers, plus an Coast impressive 55 gins, 60 malts, and over 40 Shore Road, Whiting Bay, wines. The same passion and commitment Isle of Arran KA27 8PR shines through in the food, with local 01770 700308, coastarran.co.uk sourcing of top-quality ingredients to the Mon, Thu & Sun 10am–4pm; Fri/Sat fore. Think baked Arran brie, langoustines ‘Seasonality is key 10am–4pm, 6–11pm. Closed Tue/Wed. roasted in garlic butter, the ‘lamb cut of to my cooking at Located in the charming village of the day’ butchered in-house, and fish pie Jacques’ Table and Whiting Bay, eight miles south of infused with saffron. There’s space for the that presents its own Brodick, Coast serves up simple, good kids to run about in the beer garden or for challenges as our quality, home-cooked food in comfortable parents to enjoy a cool drink in the sun. menus change twice and relaxing surroundings, with the added See also Chef’s Choice, page 29. a month. Good local bonus of spectacular views of the Firth of suppliers are a must Clyde and the Ayrshire coastline. Expect Glenisle Hotel to ensure we serve steak, burgers and fish and chips, and Lamlash, Isle Of Arran KA27 8LY the best food to our there’s also a good sprinkling of Scottish 01770 600559, glenislehotel.com customers. favourites such as haggis and salmon. Mon–Sun noon–8.30pm. Seafood is a favourite Located on the main road that runs of mine and regularly Creelers through Lamlash, this hotel restaurant features on our menu. Home Farm, Brodick, is tastefully decorated with a menu that Being surrounded by Isle of Arran KA27 8DD meets the needs of guests who might have a beautiful coastline 01770 302810, creelers.co.uk been travelling all day – sandwiches, means we have a Mon–Sat 9am–5pm. Closed Sun. salads and light bites are available until bountiful supply of Founded and run by Tim and Fran James, close. Heartier dishes include pan-seared top quality seafood. the Creelers business for many years scallops with cauliflower purée, and fresh I particularly like consisted of a smokehouse and two salmon layered with prawns. After dinner cooking with shellfish; restaurants, one on Arran and a popular you can retire to the lounge to finish your and the local lobsters outlet in Edinburgh city centre. The bottle of wine in front of the open fire. and brown crabs latter restaurant closed its doors in 2012. I can source from The Arran restaurant and smokehouse The Lagg Hotel Ardrossan fisherman continue to trade very much as normal Lagg, Kilmory, Isle of Arran KA27 8PQ Tom Bryson are during the season, selling smoked Loch 01770 870255, lagghotel.com special. The taste and Duart salmon, kippers and smoked meats Mon–Sun noon–9.30pm. quality is outstanding from the shop, online, and at Edinburgh Situated on the southern tip of Arran, the and having a good farmers’ market and to retail customers. Lagg Hotel sits in a picturesque location relationship with Tom The relocation of the smokehouse to their within its own tranquil grounds. Covering means I’m buying original roots at Skipness on Kintyre, next lunch through to dinner, options range the best available, to Skipness Castle, is ongoing. Formerly from light lunches such as quiche, salads straight from the sea. a trawler-man, Tim James still creels for and sandwiches to more sophisticated It’s a great gift to much of the shellfish, as well as catching dishes in the evening. Much is made have such quality on wild salmon and trout. from the rich waters all around, including our doorstep.’ scallops, seafood risotto, homemade crab ■■ Jacques Troquet is cakes and fish and chips. From the land head chef at Jacques’ comes the likes of venison casserole, Table, Sinclairston (see slow-roast pork belly and sirloin steak. page 42).

The Ayrshire Larder 39 Where to Eat list.co.uk

The Old Pier Tearoom couches to relax. The farm shop is stocked Shore Road, Lamlash, with local produce and soups and meals Isle of Arran KA27 8JN prepared on the premises. 01770 600249, fb.com/TheOldPierTearoom The Cochrane Inn Mon–Sun 10am–3.30pm. 45 Main Road, Gatehead KA2 0AP This busy tearoom at the end of a pier is a 01563 570122, cochraneinn.com good stop-off point for cakes and bakes, as Mon–Fri 10am–2.30pm, 5–9.30pm; Sat well as favourites like homemade sausage 10am–9.30pm; Sun noon–9.30pm. The Sorn Inn rolls, macaroni cheese and eggs and chips. The Cochrane Inn serves informal pub- The owner aims to have three gluten-free style food with a modern twist. A set-price cakes on offer at any one time, such as a express menu offers two or three courses pretty Tunisian almond and polenta cake and is available throughout the day. scattered with rose petals and cardamom Separate lunch and dinner menus offer pods. Lemon drizzle and Victoria sponge an extensive range of dishes with lighter sit alongside scones, tray bakes and, in bites including soup of the day, salads and summer, Arran ice-cream. sandwiches. The Wineport Bar, Dunlop Dairy Tearoom Bistro & Café West Clerkland Farm, Cladach, Brodick, Stewarton KA3 5LP Isle of Arran KA27 8DE For main entry see p.30. 01770 302101, wineport.co.uk Mon–Sun noon–7pm. Fenwick Fine Foods Within walking distance of Brodick, the 28 Main Road, Fenwick, Wineport sits at the base of the walking Kilmarnock KA3 6AH path up Arran’s highest mountain, Goat For main entry see p.30. Fell, and is popular with walkers as a result. Dine al fresco in the large patio and The Longhouse garden area, or in the simple, open-plan 130 Titchfield Street, restaurant and bar. Child and dog friendly, Kilmarnock KA1 1PH they offer light snacks and traditional 01563 535130, meals (a burger made with Arran beef and longhouse-kilmarnock.co.uk >ONLINE chutney, crab sandwich, fish and chips, Mon–Sun 10am–10pm. hand-made pizza) alongside a range of Open all day, this local favourite offers LISTINGS Arran beers from the brewery next door inspired and formal dining with several Extended write-ups and big portions of good home baking. different menus to chose from. Breakfast of all venues, with moves into a varied lunch offer including a individual location nod to some Scottish-inspired dishes such maps and links at AROUND as Cullen Skink, Shetland mussels, and each entry, can be KILMARNOCK smoked haddock and king prawn gratin found at thelarder.net with a Barwheys cheese crumb. A similar Accessible on all Catrine House Coffee Shop & dinner menu offers a selection of themed devices including Ice Cream Parlour sharing plates, steaks, seafood and pies. smartphones and Mauchline KA5 5JY tablets, thelarder.net 01290 552093, ayrshireicecream.co.uk Mamita’s Coffee House features additional Mon–Sun 10am–5pm. 37 Bank Street, Kilmarnock KA1 2ER listings within Set on the popular River Ayr walk, the 01563 573063 Ayrshire and search tranquil setting makes this an ideal place Mon–Sat 8am–5pm. Closed Sun. functions for food and to stop for a coffee and homemade cake, This is a popular spot for a light lunch or drink venues across a spot of lunch, or an ice-cream. There’s coffee and cake. Owner Jane Trotter has Scotland. an outdoor play area for kids, and indoors been running the café since 2008 and offers there’s plenty of space and some comfy fresh food all made daily on the premises,

40 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Eat

from soup, sandwiches, panini and toasties outdoor seating area. The food is all freshly to hot savouries including Jane’s secret- made and offers good choice, from soup of recipe sausage rolls. the day to warm specials such as gnocchi with cheese sauce, sandwiches on artisan The Park Hotel/Blues Bistro bread, salads, sharing platters and cakes. Rugby Park, Kilmarnock KA1 1UR 01563 545999, The Balgarth Pines theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk 8 Dunure Road, Doonfoot, Mon–Fri noon–2.30pm, 5.30–9.30pm; Ayr KA7 4HR Sat noon–2.30pm, 6–9.30pm; 01292 442441, balgarthpines.co.uk Sun 1–9pm. Mon–Sun 9am–9.30pm. Located in the shadow of Rugby Park foot- Situated in the leafy south-west Ayr ball stadium, there’s an obvious blue-hued suburb of Doonfoot, this contemporary theme to this eating spot – from the name bar-restaurant serves food from breakfast through to the seat coverings. With light through to dinner, drawing as much wood tables and picture windows, it’s a produce as possible from the Ayrshire area. contemporary, upbeat space that’s reflected The dinner menu mixes Scottish, American, in a menu well populated with snacks, easy Mexican and steakhouse fare while in the bites including pizza/pasta and main dishes Blaw Wearie Bar – so named after the 3rd including Ayrshire lamb in a rogan josh and hole at Turnberry Golf Course – they pour Lanarkshire steaks. Blues is located within craft beers, cocktails, wines and whiskies. the Park Hotel, a smart, modern affair with 50 and conference facilities. Brig o’ Doon House Hotel High Maybole Road, Alloway KA7 4PQ The Sorn Inn 01292 442466, brigodoonhouse.com 35 Main Street, Sorn KA5 6HU Mon–Sun 9am–9pm 01290 551305, sorninn.com You don’t get much deeper in the heart Tue–Fri noon–2.30pm; 6–9pm; Sat of Burns country than the historic Brig o’ noon–9.30pm; Sun 12.30–7.30pm. Doon in Alloway village – setting of the Closed Mon. climax to ‘Tam o’ Shanter’. Overlooking Chef and owner Craig Grant places a firm gardens that roll down to the River Doon emphasis on local and Scottish produce and the iconic bridge itself, this hotel used according to seasonal availability. makes the best of its prime location, right There’s a range of popular classics such as down to the clever gimmick of an all-year- beef ribs, pork belly and chump of lamb, round Burns Supper menu. cooked and presented in a contemporary style. The chargrill menu offers a range Costley’s Patisserie & of steaks and gourmet burgers with an Chocolatier appealing selection of sides. Food is served 158 Main Street, Prestwick KA9 1PB either in the relaxed and welcoming dining For main entry see p.32. room or in the adjacent Chop House. Dumfries Arms AROUND AYR 54 Glaisnock Street, Cumnock KA18 1BY The Artisan Lounge 01290 429230, dumfriesarms.co.uk 13 Old Bridge Street, Ayr KA7 1QA Mon–Sun noon–8.30pm. 01292 288699 Confusingly to non-Ayrshire folk, the Mon–Tue 9am–6pm; Wed–Sat 9am– Dumfries Arms Hotel is situated nowhere 9pm. Closed Sun. near Dumfries, but an hour north in the Ayr’s first vegetarian café-bistro opened in Ayrshire village of Cumnock. Serving the autumn of 2014. They’ve nabbed a nice fresh, local produce with very reasonable location, with views across the River Ayr lunch and dinner deals, a sample dinner from window benches and a small covered menu will start with chicken liver and

The Ayrshire Larder 41 Where to Eat list.co.uk

Ayrshire ham hock pâté, with braised blade a relaxed and sociable affair. See Chef’s of beef or 12-hour roast ham as a main, Choice, page 39. while more exotic palates may prefer a chicken fajita or lamb jalfrezi. Kail-Yard Restaurant / The Black Bull Ellisland House Hotel 2b Montgomery Street, 19 Racecourse Road, Ayr KA7 2TD Tarbolton KA5 5PR 01292 260111, ellislandhouse.com 01292 541909, blackbulltarbolton.com Mon–Fri noon–2.30pm, 5.30-9pm; Sat/ Mon–Sun noon–9pm. Trump Turnberry Hotel Sun noon–9pm. The Kail-Yard is a modern extension of (page 44) Inhabiting a stately early 20th-century pile the Black Bull pub, bringing a carefully with extensive grounds in central Ayr not considered fine-dining experience to far from the seafront, this is a popular base an area of the Ayrshire countryside for tourists exploring Burns country. With undernourished for quality restaurants. wood-panelled walls and lots of natural It’s done in a way that’s welcoming to light from the cupola, the lounge and diners of most dispositions and budgets. restaurant offer morning coffee with cakes Standouts from the starters include a and scones through to lunches and dinners. crispy deep-fried goat’s cheese and The Ellisland also lays on a carvery seven fig spring roll pastry, while generous days, full of freshly cooked roasts with mains could include a roast breast of market vegetables. Gressingham duck. Filippo’s Bistro The Kirkmichael Arms 11/15 New Road, Ayr KA8 8DA 3-5 Straiton Road, 01292 263058, filipposbistro.co.uk Kirkmichael KA19 7PH Mon–Wed 10am–9.30pm; 01655 750200, kirkmichaelarms.co.uk Thu–Sun 10am–10pm. Mon–Sun noon–8.45pm. Named after the current head of the The Kirkmichael Arms opened as a Mancini ice-cream empire, Filippo’s serves family-run venture in 2012. The kitchen up the twin staples of pizza and pasta done offers a selection of hearty classics, with colour, imagination and flair. There’s like chicken liver parfait with seasonal the essential Scots-Italian haddock and chutney, steak and sausage pie or braised chips, and other seaside favourites like shoulder of lamb with cauliflower purée. scampi. If you’re having dessert – and Real ale drinkers will be pleased to note you’d be a fool not to – there are countless that the bar has two ale taps. One of these varieties of ice-cream. serves a resident ale from the local Ayr Brewing Company. Jacques’ Table 3 St Clare’s Court, Sinclairston, Kirkmichael Community Cumnock KA18 2SA Shop and Jock’s Café 07850 368985, jacquestable.co.uk 24 Patna Road, Friday dinner from 7pm; Kirkmichael KA19 7PJ Sunday lunch from 1.30pm. For main entry see p.33. Ayrshire’s only hidden restaurant is run by classically trained chef Jacques Troquet The Meridian and his partner. Offering diners a unique 2 Killoch Place, Ayr KA7 2EA fine-dining experience at their Sinclairston 01292 287032, meridianayr.co.uk home, they provide high-end French-style Mon–Sun 8am–midnight. cooking on Fridays, twice monthly and on Stocking a decent, trans-world selection Sundays throughout the year. Diners can of beer, including some Scottish brews expect generous portions and top-class like WEST Hefeweizen and St Mungo’s. seasonal food. Whether dining with a Unless naturalised staples like pizza and group or as a couple, expect dinner to be pasta still count as world cuisine, the

42 The Ayrshire Larder Where to Eat

food is a little less global – mainly old Renaldo’s CHEF’S CHOICE British classics like pies, burgers and 98 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BX ANDY BEATTIE ON fish and chips, with the a small tapas For main entry see p.33. BARWHEYS CHEDDAR selection. Su Casa The Minishant Inn 4 Lorne Arcade, Ayr KA7 1QL Main Road, Minishant, 01292 618657 Maybole KA19 8EU Mon–Sun 11am–4pm. 01292 442483, theminishant.co.uk Hidden away off the town’s main drag in Mon–Sat noon–10pm, the Lorne Arcade, this tiny space for just Sun 12.30–10pm. over a dozen people is decorated with vinyl This small family-run bar-restaurant is records and artworks by local artists. Every sited in a converted house on the main cup of their in-house Roundsquare coffee road. The interior was renovated in 2012 is ground to order from beans bought from ‘It’s fantastic being with bright, open booth seats. There’s only a handful of discerningly selected able to use what’s also a fire, adding a sense of snug Direct Trade farms. Food is limited to available right here intimacy to this most homely of venues. mainly just fresh soup and locally baked on my doorstep. Serving lunches and dinners, the menu cakes and sweets. Meat, game, fish, offers an extensive range of traditional shellfish, cheese, and modern pub dishes. Treehouse Bar, Grill & Terrace vegetables and of 67-69 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BZ course the famous No.22 Bar & Grill 01292 288500, treehouseayr.co.uk Ayrshire tattie are 22 Beresford Terrace, Ayr KA7 2EG Mon–Sun 9am–10pm. all favourites and I 01292 280820, 22ayr.com Occupying a prime spot at the corner of can source within Mon–Sun 9am–9.30pm. Sandgate and Boswell Park, it also benefits a short distance. Until recently the Beresford Wine Bar & from an outdoor terrace in the warmer For me, there’s one Art Gallery, No. 22 is a display of Ayr’s months. The menu offers seafood, chicken product that stands efforts to prove itself as cosmopolitan and lamb cooked on a plancha flat grill out from all the a place for cocktails and contemporary with chimichuri sauce, on-trend brioche others: Barwheys dining as any other town in Scotland large bun burgers with slaw and fries, and classic Cheddar. It’s made or small. Adopting a classical look – all fish and chips. At night the Treehouse is by local cheesemaker Roman numerals and black facade – a popular drinking spot for cocktails and Tricia Bey using there’s a broad sweep to the menu from draught beers. unpasteurised milk from breakfast through to grand grills and from her own herd of seafood platters. Ayrshire cows and I AROUND GIRVAN like that it’s a really Parkstone Hotel / adaptable cheese. The Restaurant 33 Cosses Country House sharp fruit flavour Central Esplanade, Ballantrae, Nr Girvan KA26 0LR makes it ideal for Prestwick KA9 1QN 01465 831363, swapping out for 01292 477286, parkstonehotel.co.uk cossescountryhouse.com parmesan or gruyère Mon–Sun noon–2pm, 5–9pm. Times by agreement with guests. and it’s a cheeseboard Situated on the Ayr waterfront, At this member of Wolsey Lodges, guests favourite too.’ Restaurant 33 boasts sea views along eat together at one table in the home of ■■ Andy Beattie is head with food made from locally sourced hosts Susan and Robin Crothwaite. The chef at Cook School produce, cooked to order. The food house is set within 12 acres of woodland Scotland, Kilmarnock, shows ambition and makes use of and garden, which provides the kitchen cookschool.org; Scottish fish in particular. There are with seasonal fruit and vegetables. Dinner, barwheysdairy.co.uk. bar snacks and a simple daytime menu, prepared after consultation with guests, See p.6 for more while the evening à la carte includes pan- may consist of fish from the fishing on Ayrshire’s dairy fried sea bream with Thai green curry village of Ballantrae or lamb from the produce, and p.46 for cream and fillet of sea bass on a warm neighbouring farm. Ayrshire Food Fayre. shrimp salad.

The Ayrshire Larder 43 Where to Eat list.co.uk

Dowhill Country Fayre 01655 331457, malincourt.co.uk Dowhill Farm, Turnberry, Mon–Sat 10am–9pm; Sun 10am–8pm. Girvan KA26 9JP Overlooking the Firth of Clyde and the 01655 331517, dowhillfarm.co.uk peaks of Arran, this is a dining option Mon–Sat 9.30am–4.30pm; with an exceptional view. With crisp table Sun 10am–4.30pm. linen and attentive staff, the restaurant On the southbound approach to Girvan, is formal yet welcoming. Dinner centres Dowhill’s shop offers a wealth of locally on traditional Scottish dishes, including sourced supplies. The adjoining restaurant chicken stuffed with haggis, and poached Glenapp Castle is reminiscent of a welcoming farmhouse salmon with lemon and dill sauce. kitchen, with views overlooking the courtyard and sea beyond. Hot meals Souter’s Inn include the house favourites – creamy 47 Main Road, Kirkoswald KA19 8HY macaroni cheese and flavoursome steak 01655 760653, soutersinn.com pie, as well as freshly prepared sandwiches Mon–Sun 9am–9pm. and soup. With thick stone walls and a roaring fire, this cosy eatery offers a snug dining Glenapp Castle experience that Tam O’Shanter and Ballantrae KA26 0NZ his droothy neighbour Johnnie – the 01465 831212, glenappcastle.com restaurant’s namesake – would have Mon–Sun 7.45–10.45am, 12.30–2pm, relished. The food covers classics such as 3–5pm, 7–9.30pm. slow-cooked lamb stew to Asian-inspired Set in a majestic location, with sweeping dishes such as spiced beef. drive and acres of beautiful gardens – which supply the castle kitchen with fresh Trump Turnberry Hotel herbs and vegetables – the impressive (1906 Restaurant) venue and lavish menu make for a high-end Turnberry Resort, Turnberry KA26 9LT dining experience. Afternoon tea is served 01655 331000, turnberryresort.co.uk in the elegant drawing room, and a set Mon–Sun 7–9.30pm. lunch and six-course dinner continue the With panoramic views of the firth of luxury theme, with choices including west Clyde and Ailsa Craig, the 1906 restaurant coast fish and game from neighbouring within Trump Turnberry hotel offers estates. See also Chef’s Choice, page 35. luxurious destination dining. Based on Escoffier principles, the restaurant >ONLINE Graziano’s Harbour Café offers high-end cooking using locally LISTINGS 37 Knockushan Street, Girvan KA26 sourced ingredients. Artichoke risotto is Extended write-ups 9AG comfortingly rich, while loin of red deer of all venues, with 01465 714472 is perfectly tender, with nutty flavours individual location Café: Mon–Sun 11.30am–7.30pm. Chip permeating the meat and jus. maps and links at Shop: Mon–Sun 11.30am–8.30pm. each entry, can be The harbourside location makes Graziano’s Wildings Hotel & Restaurant found at thelarder.net the archetypal chip shop experience. Harbour Road, Maidens KA26 9NR Accessible on all Beloved by locals and tourists, weekend 01655 331401, wildingshotel.com devices including queues are testament to the quality of Mon–Sun noon–2pm, 6.30–9pm. smartphones and the food, sourced from local suppliers in Kevin Rae’s longevity and skill as head chef tablets, thelarder.net Ayr. The selection of deep-fried delights within the family-run business has helped features additional includes the speciality blaggis – which earn Wilding’s an enviable reputation. As listings within brings together haggis and black pudding in one might expect from a seaside restaurant, Ayrshire and search one battered parcel. seafood features prominently here, and functions for food and there’s also an impressive rack of lamb drink venues across Malin Court Hotel / Cotters served with a refreshing compote of minty Scotland. Restaurant peas, or the famous Wildings chicken with Maidens, Turnberry KA26 9PB Swiss cheese.

44 The Ayrshire Larder Picnic Spots Ayrshire’s Best Picnic Spots Where to head when the weather calls for blankets on the ground, and al fresco feasting? David Pollock guides you through some of the region’s best outdoor picnic spots

Kildonan Shore, Isle of Arran

Dunure Shore and Castle Isle of Cumbrae Around five miles down the coast from Ayr, this spot Easily reached by ferry from Largs, Cumbrae’s coastline features the ruined but accessible Dunure Castle, and is renowned among visitors who enjoy walking or Kennedy Park, with its popular Butterfly Garden, plus cycling, while other attractions include the Cathedral of great views of Ailsa Craig and Arran. the Isles and the National Watersports Centre. Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock Kildonan Shore, Isle of Arran Set in the grounds of a 14th-century castle, this park has On the remote southern tip of the Isle of Arran, the shore 200 acres of woodland walks, adventure playground and at Kildonan boasts one of the few sandy beaches on the urban farm, with a tearoom and shop on site. island, as well as views of the islands of Pladda and Ailsa Craig and the Ayrshire coast. Eglinton Country Park, Kilwinning Facilities here include walking, horse-riding paths, cycle Brodick Castle and Country Park, Isle routes, permit fishing in the park’s loch and birdwatching of Arran opportunities. There’s also a modern play area for all A Victorian estate whose central castle is packed full of ages and abilities. period features, Brodick Country Park features terraced gardens, woodland walks and a walled garden in its Kelburn Castle and Country Park, grounds, and great views of the Ayrshire coast. Fairlie near Largs Well known for its bohemian July music festival and Culzean Castle and Country Park, the bright graffiti that fills an entire wall of the castle set Maybole within its grounds, Kelburn Estate’s hillside setting in- The Robert Adam designed Culzean Castle sits atop a corporates forest walks and a scenic glen, while activities cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde, with clifftop walks, include the Secret Forest wooded maze. caves, beaches and destination spots like the ice houses and the pagoda. Loch Doon, Dalmellington There are riverside walks and hills accessible from the Barassie Beach, Troon shore, contributing to the fantastic scenery, while there’s Set just north of Troon harbour and close to the town, also a café next to the hydroelectric dam and the new Barassie beach is popular with relaxing families, Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is also nearby. kitesurfers and windsurfers.

The Ayrshire Larder 45 Farmers’ Markets & Food Festivals list.co.uk Ayrshire’s Markets

Ayrshire Farmers’ Market event is well-attended by local suppliers delivering a Since its inception in 2000, the Ayrshire Farmers’ Market wide range of seasonal produce. Kids’ activities and hot Cooperative has been at the heart of the small-scale, food are also part of a day out which runs from 10am– artisan food scene in the region. Their local markets take 2pm on the last Sunday of every month. See Chef’s place in Ayr (High Street, outside Lorne Arcade; fi rst Choice, page 43. Saturday of each month; 9am–1pm) and Kilmarnock (The ■■ The Cook School Scotland, Kilmarnock, 01563 Cross; third Saturday of each month; 9am–1pm) with 550008, cookschool.org less frequent sojourns to Kilwinning and Alloway (held indoors). AFM also run the regular market in Paisley (The Fencebay Farmers’ Market Cenotaph, High Street; second and last Saturday of each Held on the last Sunday of every month at Fencefoot month; 10am–2pm). Keep an eye on their Facebook page Farm in Fairlie, Fencebay Farmers Market offers seafood, for up-to-date listings. meat and vegetables from local producers and suppliers, ■■ ayrshirefarmersmarket.co.uk, facebook.com/ as well as drinks, crafts, plants and non-food items. As the ayrshirefarmersmarket name suggests, it is connected to the Fencebay Farm Shop & Smokehouse and The Catch at Fins Restaurant. Ayrshire Food Fayre ■■ Fencefoot Farm, Fairlie near Largs, 01475 568 918, Held by the Cook School in Kilmarnock, this monthly fencebay.co.uk Food Festivals ■■ Burns an’ a’ That MAY burnsfestival.com ■■ Ayr Flower Show AUGUST ayrflowershow.org ■■ Ayr County Show MAY ayrcountyshow.co.uk ■■ Arran Farmers Show AUGUST visitarran.com ■■ Ballantrae Festival of Food and Drink MAY ■■ Scottish Air Show SEPTEMBER scottishairshow.com ballantrae.org.uk ■■ Dean Castle & Country Park Harvest Festival ■■ Largs Food Festival MAY fb.com/LargsFoodFest SEPTEMBER eastayrshireleisure.com

For beer and whisky festivals, see page 33. Keep up to date on all local events at facebook.com/LoveAyrshire

46 The Ayrshire Larder Index

Creelers 22, 39 No. 1 Avenue Larder 30 Cruize Bar Brasserie 38 No. 22 Bar & Grill 43 Index Cumbrae Oysters 22 The Old Byre Showroom 38 Afton Glen Meats 29 Dalduff Farm Shop 21, 32 Old Loans Inn 37 All That’s Delicious 22 The Dessert Depot 22 The Old Pier Tearoom 40 Ardtaraig Fine Foods 22, 31 Dobbies Farm Foodhall 32 The Orangery at Seamill Hydro 36 Arran Brewery 14, 23, 28 Dowhill Country Fayre 21, 34, 44 The Park Hotel 41 Arran Cheese Shop 23, 29 The Drift Inn 29, 39 Parkstone Hotel 43 The Arran Chocolate Drumullan Organics 21 Petrie Fine Foods 22 Factory 13, 22, 26, 28 Dumfries Arms 41 J Pieroni and Sons Ltd 33 Arran Dairies Ltd 23 Dumfries House 19, 20 Piersland House Hotel 37 Arran Distillery 13, 17, 23, 38 Dunlop Dairy 7, 23, 30, 40 Pollok Williamson Family Butchers 31, 33 Arran Fine Foods 13, 21, 28 Eighteen69 38 Potatoes 18, 21 Arran Malt and Music Festival 33 Ellisland House Hotel 42 A D Rattray Whisky Experience The Artisan Lounge 41 Enzo’s Fish & Chips 11, 36 and Whisky Shop 34 Auchengree Farm 21, 26 Ethical Ales 14, 23 Renaldo’s 23, 33 Auchrannie Resort 12, 38 EverythingChilli 21 Restaurant 33 43 Aye Love Real Food 22, 37 Fencebay Farmers’ Market 46 Rhone Cottage 21 Ayr Brewing Company 14, 23 Fencebay Fisheries 11, 22, 35, 46 Robbie’s Drams 17, 33, 34 Ayrshire Bacon 9 Fenwick Fine Foods 30, 40 Robert Burns Birthplace Museum 17 Ayrshire Bed & Breakfast Association 9 Filippo’s Bistro 42 Robertsons Fine Foods 21, 28 Ayrshire Beer Festival 33 GC Growers 21 Robin’s Herbs 12,13,21 Ayrshire College 20 Geraldo’s Ice Cream 23,26 Roundsquare Roastery 23, 41 Ayrshire Farmers’ Market 46 Girvan Early Growers Ltd 18, 21 Scotlay Eggs 22 Glenapp Castle 35, 44 Ayrshire Farmhouse Ice Cream 23 Scottish Charcuterie Company 9,22 Glenisle Hotel 39 Ayrshire Food Fayre 46 Scotts Bar & Restaurant 35, 37 W. A. & E. Grants 32 Ayrshire Food Network 8 Scotty Brand 18 Gray, Robin 12 Baking Sinsations 22 The Ship Inn 11, 37 The Balgarth Pines 41 Graziano’s Harbour Café 44 Si! Café Bar Restaurant 38 Ballantrae Festival of Food & Drink 46 The Handmade Cheesecake Sorbie Farm Dairies 23, 28 Barwheys Dairy 23, 43 Company 22 The Sorn Inn 41 The Bean and Leaf 35 Hendrick’s Gin 17 Souter’s Inn 44 Bellevue Cheese Company 13 Highgrove House Hotel 36 South Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve 20 The Black Bull 42 Jacques’ Table 39, 42 Splendid Soups & Such 21 The Blair Tavern 36 James of Arran 22, 26, 28 R Stalker & Son 28 Blues Bistro 41 Jane’s Delicatessen 32 Su Casa 43 Borlands Deli 29 Jar Troon 27 The Bosun’s Table 35 Jock’s Café 33 Sugar & Spice 26 Braehead Foods Ltd 22 Kail-Yard Restaurant 42 Tarelgin Farm Foods & Braidwoods 31, 36 The Kandy Bar 27 Smokehouse 21, 34 Brambles Seafood & Grill 38 JW Kay & Co 21 Taste of Arran 13 Brig o’ Doon House Hotel 41 KellyBronze Scotland 22 Thomson’s Square Sausage 9, 21 Brownings the Bakers 27, 29 The Kirkmichael Arms 42 Threepwood Fayre 22 Burns, Robert 16 Kirkmichael Community Shop Torrylinn Creamery 23, 29 C Fayre 26 and Jock’s Café 33 Treehouse Bar, Grill & Terrace 43 Café Thyme 38 The Lagg Hotel 39 Trump Turnberry Hotel 44 Cairnhill Farms 21 Largs Food Fest 46 Two Fat Ladies at the Marine Hotel 38 Casks Café 38 Lime Tree Larder 22, 23, 26 Varani’s Forum Café 31 The Catch at Fins Restaurant 11, 35 Lochgreen House Hotel 37 The Waterside 36 Catrine House Coffee Shop & Ice The Longhouse 40 We Hae Meat 21 Cream Parlour 40 MacCallum’s of Troon 37 The Wee Catch 37 Cedar Cottage Country Foods 22 Malin Court Hotel 44 Wester Highgate Farmhouse Coast 39 Mamita’s Coffee House 40 Ice Cream 23 The Cochrane Inn 40 Mancini’s of Ayr 23, 32, 33 Whisky an A’ That Festival 33 The Cook School Scotland 9, 43, 46 Marine Hotel 38 Wildings Hotel & Restaurant 44 Corney & Barrow 32 Mary’s Marvellous Munchables 22 William Grant & Sons 17 Corrie Mains Farm 30 The Meridian 42 The Wineport Bar, Bistro & Café 40 Cosses Country House 43 The Minishant Inn 43 Wm Allan & Son 31 Costley’s Patisserie & Chocolatier 32 Nardini’s 23, 35 Woody’s 6, 7, 23, 31 Cotters Restaurant 44 Nethergate Larder 21, 30, 37 Wooleys of Arran 13, 22, 29 Creative Chocolate 22 1906 Restaurant 44 Zest Restaurant at The Gailes 38

The Ayrshire Larder 47 Ayrshire

THE GUIDE TO THE FOOD & DRINK OF AYRSHIRE & ARRAN LarderGood food and drink can be found all across Ayrshire and Arran. Rolling farmlands are dotted with the area’s famous dairy cows and fertile fields grow new potatoes or flavoursome herbs, while along the Firth of Clyde coastline fishermen haul in lobster, langoustine, crab and mackerel. Local specialities include cured bacon and black pudding, ice-creams, farmhouse cheeses, ales and porters from micro- breweries and whiskies from the heart of Robert Burns country. There’s lots to discover and enjoy, whether you’re exploring for new tastes, stocking the cupboards at home, just visiting or looking for a memorable local meal.

This inspiring and practical guide to the food and drink of Ayrshire and Arran includes: ■ In-depth stories about the food and drink of the region ■ Handy listings of local producers, markets and food shops ■ Profiles of the people producing the area’s best food: fishermen, farmers, herb and fruit growers, beekeepers, brewers, distillers and others ■ Ayrshire chefs talking about the local produce that inspires them ■ An independent guide to the best local cafés and restaurants the Larder

GUIDES GUIDES GUIDES

the THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FOOD AND DRINK LarderEDITED BY DONALD REID the Perthshire Scotland is widely celebrated for its whisky, beef and smoked salmon but there is much more of real quality to be found. This guide reveals the rich and growing array of food and drink sourced from farmland, hillside, THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FOOD AND DRINK coast and kitchen. Fully revised and updated, this THE GUIDE TO THE FOOD & DRINK OF PERTHSHIRE second edition offers an independent and authoritative Larder guide to Scotland’s food and drink, with features Larder Lanarkshire covering topics as varied as venison, Orkney crabs, ice-cream, handcrafted chocolates, microbreweries and apple juice from Borders orchards. It profi les farmers, fi shermen, artisan bakers, cheesemakers and wild food foragers, while chefs such as Martin Wishart, Jacqueline O’Donnell and Jim Cowie offer inspiring SECOND EDITION selections of their favourite local food. THE GUIDE TO THE FOOD & DRINK Practical as well as informative, The Larder contains LarderOF LANARKSHIRE up-to-date details of over 350 shops across the country selling Scottish produce, from delis and farm shops to good butchers, fi shmongers and bakers, along with a guide to Scotland’s best restaurants using local ingredients.

Also includes: ■ Catherine Brown on Scotland’s modern food culture ■ Jonathan Honeyman on cuts of lamb ■ Tom Kitchin on Perthshire berries ■ Kevin MacGillivray on cooking local fi sh ■ Plus details of the best cook schools, food events, seasonal food and every farmers’ market

Praise for the fi rst edition: £7.99 ‘It’s brilliant. The best publication I’ve seen in a long ayrshire-arran.org/visittime.’ Tom Lewis of Monachyle Mhor ‘A turning point in the public’s perception of Scottish food and a much needed celebration of our hard- working producers.’ Mary Contini of Valvona & Crolla Perthshire Larder 2013DR4.indd 1 01/11/2013 17:17 Lanarkshire Larder 2013DR4.indd 1 30/08/2013 16:17 ‘There’s so much in it. There’s so much here to inspire people, from chefs to the average customers in the LoveAyrshire street.’ Tony Borthwick of The Plumed Horse www.thelarder.net SECOND EDITION thelarder.net