Port of Menteith, Stirlingshire
Robert Wight enjoys top Scottish produce at a fine waterfront eatery
The Lake of Menteith is nestled in the narrow strip of land between the Lowlands and the Highlands. Its verdant farmland and rich woodlands and moorlands are home to some of the best produce, livetsock and game around – an abundant larder of which The Lake Hotel makes full use. I opted for a starter with east coast origins however, Culllen skink with freshly baked bread. It was wonderfully creamy and smoky. I prefer mine thicker, with more haddock and potato. But then, I’m a bit of a glutton. This was probably just right for a starter. Main was roasted medallions of venison loin with seasonal vegetables, served on a potato rosti. Unusual, but it worked. The vension, locally sourced, was slightly too well done for me – I prefer meat as rare as I can get it – but it was an excellent cut of the highest quality and as tasty as could be. My knife glided through it and it melted in the mouth. Pudding was a twist on another Scottish classic – cranachan, parfait-style with a berry compote. 8/10
Staff are professional, knowledgeable on all produce. Relaxed, friendly and courteous. 9/10
Restaurant covers the lounge/bar area and extends to a large, but still cosy, conservatory. The dining floor is well planned, tables aren’t crowded and the space has an intimate feel. It’s a rural setting and the views across the Lake of Menteith are stunning. Open fire in the bar is great on winter evenings. 8/10
Three courses for two diners and a couple of glasses of wine each came in at around £120. More or less what you’d expect for the standard of food. 8/10
A beautiful old building, sensitively modernised. Spotlessly clean & fresh throughout. Wonderful whisky selection with some incredibly rare malts on display. 9/10