Everything you need to know about Loch Fyne Oysters

Love seafood? Want to enjoy some of the best Scotland has to offer? Here is everything you need to know about one of Scotland's best seafood producers - Loch Fyne Oysters

Published 5th Apr 2016
Updated 18 th Sep 2023

Where are they

Loch Fyne Oysters is situated about an hour’s drive west of Glasgow.

Located near Cairndow on the A83, the world-famous Oyster Bar and Deli shop enjoy scenic vistas out across the gentle waters of Loch Fyne.

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A regular bus service leaves from Glasgow’s Buchanan Street Bus station, with a stop right outside the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Deli.

What do they sell

Originally established as an oyster growing business in 1978, the company has expanded over the past four decades to include seafood, a smokehouse, the Oyster Bar restaurant, farm shop and deli.

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The original farm shop started in a small shed in the lay-by at the head of Loch Fyne in the early 1980s. In 1988 it moved into the old cow byre at Clachan Farm, and the Oyster Bar opened up alongside.

The Loch Fyne Deli has grown to be a well-stocked larder store with everything from freshly-caught langoustine, to smoked salmon, jams, preserves, local meat, dairy produce and sweets.

Much of what you’ll find in-store is sourced via ‘Food from Argyll' producers, showcasing the best food & drink the area has to offer.

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The Loch Fyne Oyster Bar serves fresh seafood, locally-caught seafood including the famous oysters from waters just minutes from the restaurant’s door. The Deli and Oyster Bar are open all year round from 9am. Closing times vary according to season.

A brief history

Local landowner Johnny Noble and marine biologist Andy Lane started the Loch Fyne Oyster Farm in 1978. First sales came from the original 'Loch Fyne Shop' located in a shed on the A83.

Both men were oyster enthusiasts, and were keen that they developed best practice in aquaculture from the outset. Innovation, sustainability and respect for the environment were key and continue to underpin the values of the company.

The Loch Fyne Oysters' motto is the Gaelic phrase ‘Nach Urramach an Cuan’, or ‘How worthy of honour is the sea’.

A catch of mussels is harvested on Loch Fyne

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By the late 1980s, the oyster bar and farm shop were doing a roaring trade, putting this scenic corner of Argyll firmly on the tourist map.

In 1990, the inaugural Loch Fyne Food Fair took place, bringing together local food & drinks producers, music, and family entertainment. In 2015, the two day event celebrated its 25th year, and has the honour of being Scotland’s longest-running outdoor food festival.

A little bit about the restaurant

The restaurant is open daily throughout the year opening from 9am for breakfast, through to lunch and early dinner.

Head Chef Jamie Nicholson, seeks the best of the season’s flavours for the restaurant and oyster bar menus. With a natural larder of some of Scotland’s finest seafood on their doorstep, it’s no wonder this is a year-round foodie destination.

Picture: Loch Fyne

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Early-risers can enjoy smoked Peterhead haddock and poached eggs, or a smokey Loch Fyne grilled kipper. From fresh native oysters ‘au naturel’ to roasted lobster and their famed smoked salmon platter, to buttery grilled langoustine; fish is very much the dish and choosing amongst such tempting choices can prove tricky.

And the winner is...

Over the years Loch Fyne Oysters have picked up a whole host of awards that celebrate our commitment to great tasting Scottish seafood and shellfish. These include:

• Great Taste 2015 - Kinglas Fillet and Whisky Marinated

Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards: Environment Award 2015

 Best Scottish Mussels 2015: Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers

• Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2014 : Seafood Category - Kinglas Fillet

• The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2014

For more info

• For up to date menus, online seafood store, current opening times and special events go to: www.lochfyne.com

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Loch Fyne Oysters on how to prepare and eat oysters with recipe for making your own

 

 

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