Nestled along the winding banks of the Loch and Quay River, The Loch & Quay has long been celebrated as a premier destination for those seeking a refined and unforgettable dining experience. From the exceptional al fresco settings to the meticulously crafted menus that highlight the very best of the region’s culinary traditions, this waterfront wonderland offers a truly remarkable gastronomic journey.
Riverside Locations
Riverside Restaurants
At the heart of The Loch & Quay’s dining scene are its renowned riverside restaurants, each offering its own unique ambience and culinary specialties. The Boathouse, with its sweeping views of the glistening waters and lush surrounding greenery, has become a local favorite for its seasonal, farm-to-table fare and clever cocktail program. Just down the river, Dockside’s seasonal menu showcases the bounty of the region, from the freshest seafood to the most succulent meats, all prepared with a masterful touch.
Riverside Bars and Lounges
For those seeking a more casual yet equally refined waterfront experience, the riverside bars and lounges of The Loch & Quay deliver the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and carefully curated libations. The Anchor, with its cozy al fresco terrace and expertly mixed craft cocktails, has become a beloved gathering place for both visitors and locals alike. Meanwhile, the Riverside Lounge at The Quay Hotel offers a sophisticated setting in which to sip on fine wines and craft beers while admiring the gentle ebb and flow of the river.
Riverside Parks and Attractions
Beyond the dining venues, The Loch & Quay also boasts a vibrant array of riverside parks and attractions that seamlessly complement the culinary delights. The Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian pathway that hugs the water’s edge, offers the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, with stunning views of the river and the surrounding landmarks. And for those seeking a deeper connection to the area’s natural wonders, the Loch & Quay Nature Preserve, just a short distance from the main hub, provides ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing oneself in the serene beauty of the region.
Cuisine Styles
Seafood Specialties
As one might expect from a destination renowned for its waterfront setting, The Loch & Quay’s culinary offerings place a particular emphasis on the exceptional seafood found in the local waters. From the delicate, silky smooth Oysters Rockefeller to the mouthwatering seared scallops with crisp pancetta and a drizzle of lemon-butter sauce, the seafood dishes at The Loch & Quay are nothing short of exceptional.
Farm-to-Table Dishes
Alongside the seafood specialties, The Loch & Quay also takes great pride in its commitment to showcasing the finest local, seasonal ingredients through its innovative farm-to-table dishes. The chefs work closely with nearby purveyors and producers to source the freshest produce, meats, and artisanal goods, transforming them into masterful culinary creations that celebrate the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Fusion Flavors
While the riverside cuisine at The Loch & Quay is firmly rooted in the local culinary traditions, the talented chefs also embrace the art of fusion, blending international flavors and techniques to create truly unique and memorable dining experiences. From the Thai-inspired mussels in a lemongrass and coconut broth to the Korean BBQ-glazed short ribs, the diverse menu offerings at The Loch & Quay offer something to captivate every palate.
Dining Experiences
Waterfront Views
One of the most alluring aspects of dining at The Loch & Quay is the opportunity to savor exceptional cuisine while immersed in the breathtaking natural beauty of the riverside setting. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch on the Boathouse’s expansive patio or savoring a romantic dinner at Dockside, the panoramic views of the shimmering waters and the verdant surrounding landscape create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Outdoor Seating
Building on the stunning waterfront vistas, The Loch & Quay’s restaurants and bars offer ample opportunities for al fresco dining and lounging, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of the riverside environment. From the lush, flower-adorned terraces of The Anchor to the expansive, open-air decks of the Riverside Lounge, these outdoor spaces provide the perfect setting for everything from intimate gatherings to lively social events.
Live Music and Entertainment
To complement the exceptional cuisine and picturesque views, The Loch & Quay also boasts a vibrant schedule of live music and entertainment, adding to the already captivating ambience of the riverside setting. Whether it’s the soulful sounds of a jazz trio at The Boathouse or the lively energy of a local band at The Anchor, these musical performances create a truly memorable and immersive dining experience for guests.
Culinary Influences
Local Ingredients
The Loch & Quay’s culinary team takes great pride in sourcing the finest local ingredients to feature in their seasonally inspired menus. From the fresh-caught seafood plucked straight from the river to the bountiful produce harvested from nearby farms, each dish celebrates the unique flavors and terroir of the region, offering diners a genuine taste of the Loch & Quay’s riverside locale.
Regional Recipes
Alongside the meticulous sourcing of local ingredients, the chefs at The Loch & Quay also draw inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the region, meticulously crafting dishes that pay homage to time-honored regional recipes. Whether it’s the hearty bouillabaisse inspired by the coastal French cuisines or the succulent smoked brisket that nods to the local barbecue heritage, these menu items offer a delectable journey through the flavors of the Loch & Quay.
International Inspirations
While the foundation of The Loch & Quay’s cuisine is firmly rooted in the local and regional culinary traditions, the talented chefs also look to the global stage for creative inspiration, blending international flavors and techniques with the exceptional local ingredients to craft truly unique and captivating dining experiences. From the umami-rich Japanese-influenced dishes to the vibrant Latin-inspired cocktails, these menu items showcase the culinary team’s commitment to innovation and their ability to push the boundaries of riverside cuisine.
Sustainability Practices
Eco-Friendly Sourcing
Recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, The Loch & Quay has implemented a robust sustainability program that permeates every aspect of its operations, from the procurement of ingredients to the management of waste. The culinary team works closely with local, eco-certified producers and purveyors to source the finest, most responsibly grown and harvested ingredients, ensuring that each dish not only delights the palate but also aligns with the establishment’s commitment to sustainability.
Waste Reduction Efforts
In addition to its sustainable sourcing practices, The Loch & Quay has also made significant strides in reducing waste and minimizing its environmental impact. The restaurants utilize innovative recycling and composting programs to divert the majority of their food waste from landfills, while also exploring cutting-edge technologies to minimize the use of single-use plastics and other non-renewable resources.
Community Partnerships
Underpinning The Loch & Quay’s sustainability initiatives is a deep commitment to collaboration and community engagement. The culinary team works closely with local organizations and non-profits to support initiatives that promote environmental conservation, sustainable agricultural practices, and community food security. By forging these meaningful partnerships, The Loch & Quay not only enhances its own sustainability efforts but also contributes to the overall well-being of the riverside community.
Signature Dishes
Signature Appetizers
Among the standout appetizers at The Loch & Quay is the Chilled Seafood Tower, a stunning presentation of the freshest local oysters, shrimp, crab, and seasonal delicacies, served with an array of house-made sauces and accompaniments. Another signature starter is the Seared Foie Gras with Port-Poached Pears, a rich and decadent dish that showcases the culinary team’s mastery of classic French techniques.
Signature Entrees
When it comes to main courses, The Loch & Quay’s Grilled Whole Branzino has become a true showstopper, featuring a whole Mediterranean sea bass grilled to perfection and served with a vibrant lemon-herb salsa. For those seeking a heartier option, the Braised Beef Short Ribs in a red wine demi-glace, accompanied by creamy parmesan polenta and roasted seasonal vegetables, is a perennial favorite.
Signature Desserts
To cap off an unforgettable dining experience, The Loch & Quay’s pastry team has crafted a selection of signature desserts that are nothing short of showstopping. The Chocolate Decadence Cake, a rich and indulgent creation layered with dark chocolate mousse and ganache, has become a beloved classic, while the seasonal Lavender Crème Brûlée offers a delicate and fragrant twist on the beloved French dessert.
Beverage Options
Craft Cocktails
Complementing the exceptional cuisine, The Loch & Quay’s beverage program features a carefully curated selection of craft cocktails that showcase the creativity and expertise of the talented bartenders. From the refreshing Loch-Side Lemonade, made with house-infused gin and fresh-squeezed citrus, to the bold and complex Smoky Old Fashioned, these libations offer the perfect pairing for any dining experience.
Local Wines
The Loch & Quay’s wine list is a testament to the region’s burgeoning viticulture, featuring a diverse array of local and regional vintages that have been expertly selected to complement the flavors of the cuisine. Whether you’re savoring a crisp, mineral-driven white with your seafood dishes or indulging in a rich, full-bodied red with the braised short ribs, the wine program at The Loch & Quay offers an unparalleled exploration of the local terroir.
Artisanal Brews
For those seeking a more casual beverage option, The Loch & Quay’s selection of artisanal craft beers from nearby breweries provides the perfect accompaniment to the riverside dining experience. From the hop-forward IPAs that pair beautifully with the spicy Cajun-style shrimp to the smooth, chocolatey stouts that complement the decadent desserts, the beer program at The Loch & Quay offers a diverse and dynamic range of flavors to explore.
Dietary Accommodations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing the diverse dietary preferences of its guests, The Loch & Quay has made a concerted effort to ensure that its menu offerings cater to a wide range of dietary needs and restrictions. The culinary team has crafted a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that are not only visually stunning but also bursting with bold, flavorful ingredients, such as the roasted beet and quinoa salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette or the seared tofu with coconut curry and jasmine rice.
Gluten-Free Choices
For those adhering to a gluten-free lifestyle, The Loch & Quay’s menu features a variety of gluten-free options that allow guests to indulge in the exceptional riverside cuisine without compromise. From the grilled salmon with roasted vegetables and lemon-herb sauce to the flourless chocolate torte with raspberry coulis, the culinary team takes great care to ensure that the gluten-free offerings are not only delicious but also presented with the same level of refinement as their counterparts.
Allergy-Friendly Menus
In addition to the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections, The Loch & Quay also provides allergy-friendly menus that cater to a range of dietary restrictions, including nut allergies, lactose intolerance, and shellfish sensitivities. By working closely with guests to understand their specific needs, the culinary team is able to craft personalized dining experiences that allow everyone to savor the exceptional flavors of the riverside cuisine.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic waterfront dinner, a lively al fresco gathering, or a leisurely afternoon exploring the riverside parks and attractions, The Loch & Quay offers a truly unparalleled experience that celebrates the very best of the region’s culinary traditions. With its commitment to sustainability, its embrace of diverse dietary needs, and its unwavering dedication to exceptional hospitality, this waterfront wonderland serves as a shining example of what it means to truly savor the flavors of the riverside.