A soon-to-be launched north-east eatery has officially named its new head chef to lead the venue on its new voyage.
The Silver Darling, which is based in Fittie, has strengthened its team with the appointment of head chef, Craig Somers, most recently of The Tolbooth, Stonehaven.
Mr Somers brings more than 22 years of industry experience to the role, originally starting his career at The Silver Darling at the age of 20, starting as a commis chef. Craig went on to work at various restaurants in Aberdeen before joining The Tolbooth as Head Chef for nine years and now returns to lead the team at The Silver Darling.
The Silver Darling, which was acquired by independent hospitality business, The McGinty’s Group at the end of September 2017, is set to open today (Thursday, February 1), following a significant refurbishment which will transform the restaurant with stylish interiors and a new food & drink offering.
Head chef of The Silver Darling, Craig Somers, said: “I am truly delighted to be coming back to the special restaurant where I first started my career and in fact, met my now wife. Working under Didier when I first started out taught me the valuable skills which allowed me to progress in my career, so to be returning as head chef is a fantastic personal achievement.
“I am very excited to be involved with the redevelopment of such an iconic venue and look to build on its already great reputation whilst adding my personal touch to the food offering. The menu concept will be based on modern cooking with a focus on fresh and seasonal produce with a mix of seafood dishes and meat options to complement the new surroundings.”
Operations director of The McGinty’s Group, Alan Aitken, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Craig to The Silver Darling team. He has a great wealth of experience and talent along with a huge passion which is a great fit for our company ethos. Our aim for the renovations have been based on enhancing the buildings unique character and setting, while adding stylish features suited to our style of dining. We are very excited about launching this weekend and look forward to this new chapter for the restaurant.”
The Silver Darling, which first launched in 1986, has continued to be one of the city’s favourite restaurants with its panoramic views overlooking the beach, Fittie and Aberdeen’s harbour. As part of the refurbishment, the restaurant has partnered with local artist Shelagh Swanson to create a bespoke glass feature which will feature pictures of Fittie and the people of the community.
The Silver Darling will officially re-open today for its first evening service from 5.30pm and will be open on Friday lunch time and all day on Saturday, February 3. For bookings, please call on 01224 576229 or email reservations@thesilverdarling.co.uk.
New head chef at The Silver Darling, Craig Somers