For the team at JM Breckenridge, the Covid-19 outbreak and its associated lockdown wasn’t just a blow for them, but for many of their customers.
The family-owned fresh produce wholesaler carries out daily deliveries across the west coast, the islands and the Highlands to businesses including restaurants, cafes, hotels, takeaways and much more.
But Covid-19 brought everything to a screeching halt for everyone.
Scott McDonald, one of the partners at JM Breckenridge, said: “It’s been a tough few months for our customers, and therefore for us.
But with the restrictions beginning to lift, many of Scott’s customers are getting back to work.
Scott added: “It’s great to see our customers reopening their businesses and welcoming diners back in.
“It has been a difficult few months for everyone in, and connected to, the hospitality industry but with lockdown easing there’s never been a better time to get out and support local businesses getting back on their feet.”
Here are five eateries that Scott would recommend trying if you are on the west coast or in the Highlands and Islands area. Just click on the headings to go to their websites.
And some of them are also taking part in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme in August so not only can you enjoy some of the best produce JM Breckenridge has on offer, but you can save a few pennies too!
Eeusk, Oban
Located on the Oban seafront, Eeusk (which is the phonetic Gaelic spelling of ‘fish’) is a modern stylish restaurant which aims to bring local catches impeccably fresh to your table.
The MacLeod family has been operating seafood restaurants in the area for over 20 years. They believe that on the west coast of Scotland they have the finest product in the world so they serve simple dishes that allow those products to shine.
George Street Fish and Chip Shop, Oban
There’s a reason why fish and chips is one of the nation’s favourite meals and few places do it better than at the George Street Fish and Chip Shop. They take advantage of the local fishing trade to get the freshest, best quality fish into the chippy.
And the restaurant next door showcases the best fish and shellfish in a variety of dishes that will impress even the most discerning diners.
Macgochans, Mull
Macgochans sits in the picturesque Tobermory harbour on the Island of Mull and the team aims to showcase the best of island hospitality.
Macgochans supports local and you will see that in their menu, which includes creel caught langoustines, Isle of Mull king scallops, Glengorm estate beef, Inverlussa mussels, wild venison sausages – even their bread is baked fresh every morning from the Tobermory Bakery.
The Geographer, Fort William
As a restaurant, The Geographer really lives up to its name. Offering food from around the world (inspired by the owners’ travels), it uses local produce to whip up fantastic lunches and dinners.
And make sure to check out their cheeky blackboard signs outside the restaurant!
The Lock Inn, Fort Augustus
Whether you are visiting Fort Augustus or just passing through, walking, driving or sailing by why not call into The Lock Inn, situated beside the Caledonian Canal Locks, for a refreshing drink, lunch or evening meal.
Where possible, all food is locally sourced and the kitchen uses fresh seasonal produce. They also offer a range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes.
