The Craigellachie Hotel in Speyside has announced the upcoming launch of GEAMAIR, a new fine dining restaurant led by ‘single malt chef’ Pawel Sowa. The opening marks a significant investment in the hotel’s culinary offer and is set to open on 8 October.
The new restaurant is part of a continued strategy to position The Craigellachie as a destination for food and drink in the region. GEAMAIR, pronounced “Ge-med”, takes its name from the Gaelic word for ‘gamekeeper’ to reflect the local heritage and natural surroundings of Speyside.
Head Chef Pawel Sowa, formerly of The Macallan, is known for his distinctive approach to whisky-infused cuisine, where complex flavour profiles are paired with locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are grounded in Scottish tradition.
Work is already underway to transform the dining space in time for the October opening. The launch is expected to boost local employment and contribute to the area’s tourism offering.
Tom Jolly, Managing Director at The Craigellachie Hotel, said, “The Craigellachie is well known internationally for the wonderful experience we provide to our guests – from the quality furnishings in each of the luxury 26 bedrooms, through to the Spey Inn, the oldest pub in Speyside, and our whisky lounge, Quaich Bar. I am looking forward to working closely with Pawel Sowa again to create another avenue through which to delight our guests; GEAMAIR.”
He added, “Our vision for GEAMAIR is to provide a sophisticated fine dining experience in the heart of Speyside, that is rooted in local produce, suppliers and, of course, Scotch whisky. Having previously worked with Pawel during his time at The Macallan Distillery, I am confident he is the best person to lead us to success in further elevating our guest experience and delivering unforgettable moments.”
Pawel Sowa, Head Chef at GEAMAIR, said, “GEAMAIR is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Speyside’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Our aim is to weave the essence of this remarkable region into every dish, showcasing the local fauna and flora while honouring its world-renowned whiskies. We aspire to position Speyside as a culinary destination, much like the prestigious reputation it holds in the whisky world, inviting guests to indulge in a unique dining experience that tells the story of our land and its bountiful offerings.”
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