As the sun sets over the gently lapping waves, casting a warm glow across the water’s surface, diners at The Loch & Quay are treated to a truly remarkable culinary experience. This acclaimed waterfront destination has long been celebrated for its commitment to showcasing the region’s finest seasonal ingredients, seamlessly blending them into innovative and refined dishes that highlight the bounty of the local terroir.
Seasonal Produce
At the heart of The Loch & Quay’s celebrated cuisine lies a deep reverence for the changing rhythms of the seasons. Executive Chef Nora Philips and her talented team meticulously source the freshest local produce, working closely with regional farmers, foragers, and fishermen to ensure that each dish on the ever-evolving menu celebrates the unique flavors and textures of the moment.
During the vibrant spring months, the menu may feature delicate asparagus spears, tender fiddlehead ferns, and the first tender shoots of ramps, each item carefully selected to showcase the delicate, verdant notes of the season. As summer arrives, the kitchen revels in the abundance of juicy heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and fragrant herbs, crafting dishes that capture the warm, sun-kissed essence of the region.
When autumn paints the landscape in a warm palette of golds and reds, the chefs turn their attention to heartier fare, incorporating the robust, earthy flavors of root vegetables, fragrant spices, and rich, nutty squashes. And as winter settles in, the menu evolves once more, highlighting the comforting, slow-cooked dishes and the deep, complex flavors of aged proteins and preserved ingredients.
Seasonality in Cuisine
This unwavering commitment to seasonality is not merely a stylistic choice, but a fundamental part of The Loch & Quay’s culinary philosophy. By designing their menus around the natural rhythms of the region, the chefs are able to ensure that each dish is a true reflection of the local terroir, capturing the unique essence of the land and sea in every bite.
“We believe that the true essence of great cuisine lies in the careful balance of flavors, textures, and aromas that can only be achieved by working in harmony with the seasons,” says Chef Philips. “By focusing on the freshest, most vibrant ingredients that are at the peak of their season, we’re able to create dishes that are not only visually stunning, but that also resonate with our guests on a deeper, more primal level.”
Local Sourcing
This dedication to seasonality is complemented by The Loch & Quay’s unwavering commitment to local sourcing. The restaurant’s team of culinary experts has spent years cultivating relationships with the region’s most passionate and sustainable producers, ensuring that each ingredient that graces their plates is not only of the highest quality, but also supports the local economy and ecosystem.
From the succulent, briny oysters harvested just miles from the restaurant’s doorstep to the heirloom tomatoes grown on nearby family farms, every element of The Loch & Quay’s menu can be traced back to its origins in the surrounding landscape. This deep connection to the land and sea not only infuses the dishes with a remarkable depth of flavor, but also reinforces the restaurant’s role as a steward of the region’s culinary heritage.
Waterfront Dining
The Loch & Quay’s scenic waterfront setting is the perfect complement to its seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine. Perched atop a gently sloping hill overlooking the sparkling waters of the quay, the restaurant’s elegant dining room and expansive outdoor al fresco terraces offer unparalleled views of the surrounding natural beauty.
As diners savor each course, they are immersed in a serene and rejuvenating ambience that seamlessly blends the tranquility of the water with the vibrant energy of the kitchen. Whether enjoying a leisurely multi-course tasting menu or indulging in a selection of small plates and craft cocktails, guests are invited to pause, unwind, and fully immerse themselves in the sensory delights that await.
Sustainability Practices
The Loch & Quay’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond the sourcing of its ingredients. Throughout the restaurant, eco-friendly practices are woven into every aspect of the operation, from the use of energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to the carefully curated wine list that showcases organic and biodynamic producers.
The restaurant’s waste management system is a particular point of pride, with a comprehensive recycling and composting program that diverts an impressive 95% of all waste from landfills. Additionally, the team has worked closely with local organizations to implement water conservation measures and reduce the overall carbon footprint of the business.
“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us; it’s a core part of our identity and a driving force behind every decision we make,” explains General Manager Liam Donovan. “We see it as our responsibility to be good stewards of the land and sea that provide us with such incredible bounty, and to set an example for our guests and the broader community.”
Culinary Experiences
At The Loch & Quay, the dining experience is anything but ordinary. Guests are invited to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the region’s rich gastronomic heritage, with meticulously crafted multi-course menus that showcase the very best of what the season has to offer.
Each dish is a masterful interplay of flavors, textures, and visual artistry, with the chefs drawing inspiration from the local terroir to create innovative and memorable combinations. Signature offerings may include delicate umami-rich seared scallops with crisp pea tendrils and a drizzle of fragrant truffle oil, or a decadent slow-roasted pork belly nestled atop a bed of caramelized fennel and roasted apple puree.
To complement these culinary delights, The Loch & Quay’s award-winning sommelier team has curated an exceptional selection of wines, many of which are sourced from small, family-owned vineyards in the nearby Finger Lakes region. Guests are invited to explore the nuances of each vintage through thoughtful wine pairings that enhance the flavors of the dish and transport them on a sensory journey.
Ingredient Highlights
Seafood Specialties
As a waterfront destination, it’s no surprise that The Loch & Quay takes great pride in its exceptional seafood offerings. From the briny, umami-rich oysters that are shucked to order to the succulent, perfectly seared halibut that melts on the tongue, every seafood dish is a testament to the chefs’ commitment to sourcing the freshest, most sustainable ingredients available.
One particular highlight is the restaurant’s renowned seafood tower, a towering display of the day’s finest catches, including chilled lobster, tender scallops, and delicate crab claws, all served with an array of house-made sauces and garnishes. This visually stunning and deliciously indulgent offering has become a must-try for any seafood enthusiast visiting The Loch & Quay.
Produce Profiles
While seafood may take center stage, the restaurant’s produce-driven offerings are equally deserving of acclaim. The chefs work closely with local farmers and foragers to source the most vibrant, flavorful fruits and vegetables, showcasing them in innovative and unexpected ways.
During the summer months, guests can savor the jewel-toned heirloom tomatoes, bursting with the warmth of the sun, in a simple yet sublime caprese salad adorned with fragrant basil and a drizzle of fragrant, peppery olive oil. As autumn arrives, the menu may feature a hearty butternut squash soup, its velvety texture accentuated by a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds and a dollop of tangy crème fraîche.
Artisanal Garnishes
No dish at The Loch & Quay is complete without the thoughtful addition of artisanal garnishes that elevate the overall experience. From the delicate, edible flower petals that lend a touch of color and subtle floral notes to the house-made pickles and chutneys that provide a welcome burst of acidity, each element is carefully considered to enhance the flavors and textures of the primary ingredients.
The restaurant’s culinary team also takes great pride in their house-made condiments, from the richly flavored compound butters that melt over freshly grilled proteins to the fragrant, herb-infused vinaigrettes that dress the seasonal salads. These artisanal touches not only elevate the visual appeal of each dish but also contribute to the overall depth and complexity of the flavors.
As the seasons change and the tides ebb and flow, one constant remains at The Loch & Quay: the unwavering commitment to showcasing the very best of the region’s seasonal bounty. Whether savoring a multi-course tasting menu or indulging in a selection of small plates and craft cocktails, diners are invited to immerse themselves in a culinary experience that celebrates the unique terroir of this remarkable waterfront destination.