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Daily Record
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Ayrshire restaurant reopens after huge makeover as part of £2.5m renovation
An affordable market menu has also been introduced with two courses on offer for £20. The Brig o' Doon in Alloway has officially reopened its restaurant after a five-month refurbishment and expansion. Now called Tales, the restaurant inhibits a purpose-built wraparound extension which also includes a lounge bar, private dining room and elevated public spaces with views of the River Doon. Purchased by the RAD Hotel Group from Costley & Costley in 2022, the Brig o' Doon has undergone a number of changes as the new owners invest in the hotel, restaurant and wedding venue. And the restaurant refurbishment marks the completion of the iconic venue's £2.5 million makeover. Ayrshire Live were invited to the soft launch of the restaurant which took place last week and over the weekend. The interiors have been curated by Lucid Interiors in collaboration with co-owner Vivien Kyle and relaxed, modern feel which is still in keeping with the hotel's past. An effort has been made to incorporate parts of Alloway's history and heritage with a hand-painted mural by artist Roderick McKenzie featuring a scene from Tam o' Shanter. The name and concept of the new restaurant is rooted in the poetic legacy of Robert Burns who famously penned many of his greatest works just steps from the hotel on the iconic Brig o' Doon bridge. Tales will operate seven days a week from noon until 10pm offering seasonal Scottish cuisine and sweeping views of the River Doon and gardens below. The menu features a range of cuisine to suit all tastes including traditional Scottish delights such as steak pie, Japanese-inspired BBQ pulled pork Bao Buns and The Immortal Smashed Burger for the burger aficionados. And it doesn't disappoint while the ample portion sizes leave enough room for a dessert such as the raspberry and white chocolate tiramisu. On Mondays to Thursdays before 6.30pm, Tales offers a more affordable two-course Market Menu for £20 which includes options from the full menu. RAD Hotel Group co-owner Vivien Kyle said: 'I wanted Tales to feel like stepping into a storybook. Something rooted in heritage but filled with imagination. 'Each space feels like its own chapter, from the cosy booths to the visual anchor of the riverside views. The palette, textures, and layout are all about creating little moments of magic.'
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Historic Ayrshire restaurant to reopen after 'elegant' renovation
The restaurant, which has doubled in capacity to 90 covers, is housed in a purpose-built wraparound extension with "unspoiled sweeping views" overlooking the River Doon. A historic Ayrshire restaurant is set to reopen later this month after undergoing an extension and renovation. The Brig o' Doon in Alloway will welcome guests to the new Tales restaurant from Friday, May 29. A brand new menu has been put together to accompany the new restaurant following a series of four taster sessions. In January, the restaurant closed at the hotel for a "complete makeover" but functions have continued to be held. Purchased by the RAD Group from Costley & Costley in 2022, the Brig o' Doon has undergone a number of changes as the new owners invest in the hotel, restaurant and wedding venue. RAD Group say the name for the new restaurant, Tales, was inspired by the rich storytelling heritage of Robert Burns. Taster sessions were led and hosted by group executive head chef Ian Ferguson and co-owner Vivien Kyle, giving guests a sneak peek at both the new Scottish menu and the newly extended dining space. The restaurant, which has doubled in capacity to 90 covers, is housed in a purpose-built wraparound extension with "unspoiled sweeping views" overlooking the River Doon. The "romantic" interiors have been personally curated by Vivien Kyle and will feature "earthy tones, soft textures, and rich furnishings, alongside a hand-painted mural, bespoke art, and sculptural lighting". The space also includes booths, an "elegant" private dining room and an outdoor terrace perfect for summer drinks and alfresco dining. Speaking about the taster sessions, Ian Ferguson said: 'Coming back to Brig o' Doon after 25 years feels incredibly special, and to launch a restaurant like Tales here is a real honour. 'These taste sessions were a brilliant way to connect with our guests and the local community, and their feedback has helped shape a menu that celebrates the best of Scottish produce while telling a story with every dish. 'We can't wait to welcome everyone through the doors and share what we've created.'
