A north-east couple is poised to take over one of the north-east’s most iconic seafood restaurants.
Eileen Haywood and her husband David currently run Aboyne’s Boat Inn.
And the duo has enjoyed such success at the Deeside eatery that they hope to replicate it by taking over Aberdeen’s Silver Darling.
Last night Mrs Haywood said that if planning permission is granted to add 28 more internal covers and create an outdoor seating area the pair will continue to offer fresh local produce but at a more reasonable price.
Currently the restaurant, which is renowned for its seafood and spectacular views, provides fine dining.
However, Mr and Mrs Haywood hope that their plans will allow many more customers to eat in the exclusive venue.
Mrs Haywood said: “We have seen nothing but success since we opened the doors at the Boat Inn four years ago. Despite the tough times in the economy, I truey believe that if you create a good quality product that people want to use, you will succeed no matter what. We hope that we can use the success we have seen in Aboyne and take it over to Fittie.”
Mrs Haywood said that they have looked at the success of places like Foodstory in Aberdeen and are encouraged by the demand for a more modern, progressive way of dining.
The pair, who run Neep Shed Ltd, hope to buy the restaurant from current owner Didier Dejean, who has managed the Silver Darling for more than 30 years.
Mr Dejean moved from the south of France to Aberdeen five years before opening the restaurant and built up the business alongside his family.
Mrs Haywood said that she hoped to keep the current staff, if they wanted to stay and added that, although she still plans to sell “good quality seafood” she is hopeful she will be able to provide a “more modern” approach to dining which will also cater for vegetarians, vegans and children.
Mrs Haywood said she was also keen to encourage those who want to visit Aberdeen’s Pocra Quay to try to make their way by foot, bike or bus.
She said that the firm would be offering incentives for those who leave their cars behind so to not impact on those living in Footdee.
She added: “While the restaurant is under renovation we hope to have a van outside selling freshly made flatbreads so people can get a taste of what we will have to offer.”
The council is aiming to reach a decision by October 14 and the Harbour Board will also have to grant its permission.
Once granted the couple hope to start work renovating as soon as possible.
An online advert currently asks for offers over £150,000 for the restaurant and says it currently has a turnover in excess of £548,000.
