The Boathouse restaurant in Kilsyth has reopened its doors after being taken on by Ryan Barrie and his wife Aisling Friel four months after its closure.
Ryan said that he was keen to take on The Boathouse after it closed suddenly in October last year, with the loss of 36 jobs.
He explained, “We regularly had people knocking on our doors asking what was happening to the place, and when we were opening. People were upset about its closure, and excited to know it was opening up again.”
He continued, “It’s always an exciting challenge opening venues like this. The team has worked immensely hard to get The Boathouse reopened so quickly and new jobs filled. The Boathouse was always a popular venue, and I hope this revamp will excite a whole new generation of customers.”
Commenting on the interior design, fellow director Aisling, said, “It’s a classy finish and of the highest standard, as you’d expect with Ryan’s bars, but it’s still recognisably The Boathouse. It’s been improved and enhanced, rather than completely refurbished.”
Ryan has also brought in chef Mark Stocks. “My intention is to once again make The Boathouse renowned for its superb food, range of drinks and quality service. On our menu, we are offering Scottish culinary classics, prepared by the hugely talented chef, Mark Stocks,’ said Ryan.
Mark Smith, Head of Destinations and Tourism at Scottish Canals, said, “Auchinstarry is one of Forth & Clyde Canal’s key tourism destinations and The Boathouse has been a popular fixture there for a number of years. It’s fantastic to see the restaurant reopened and we wish the team all the success in the future.”