I couldn’t wait to visit the reopened Boat Brae in Newport. I was so gutted when the previous owners announced the restaurant’s closure back in February this year. Keen to find out what the recently reopened spot is like, I headed along for dinner with my mum.
We’re led to a lovely table by the window, with a gorgeous view out over the Tay. It really feels like we’re in somewhere special as we sit and appreciate the view. The interior design of the Boat Brae doesn’t seem to have changed since my last visit under previous owners, but why should it? It’s gorgeous, understated, with a really beautiful shade of blue throughout the eatery.
When we turn to look at the menu, we are a little less impressed. There aren’t lots of options, but that is fair enough considering the restaurant has only recently reopened its doors. On under its previous owners, the menu contained the likes of braised ox cheek, duck liver parfait and chocolate torte.
This new menu is decidedly pub grub, featuring old faithfuls like macaroni and cheese, prawn cocktail and fish and chips. I admittedly was expecting something more upmarket given my last experience in the venue, but I am willing to withhold my judgement until I taste the food. Pub grub, when done well, can be just as satisfying as fine dining.
Although the menu isn’t huge, we are both able to find something we fancy. My mum, though tempted by garlic mushrooms, goes for (£5.95).
These are crispy on the outside without being dry in.