Michelin Star Scottish island restaurant to close after a decade in business
The only Michelin Starred restaurant on a popular Scottish island is to close down.
Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye is set to close at the end of October after over a decade in business. The restaurant, which gained a Michelin Star in 2017, is run by Michael and Laurence Smith who said the success of the business is down to the "incredible staff, their suppliers and the local community".
Posting on their social media, the Smiths wrote: “We have some news to share. After ten wonderful years we have made the decision to close Loch Bay.
“When we opened Loch Bay in 2016, we wanted to create a restaurant that reflected our passion for hospitality and gave the warmest of welcomes to guests visiting from all over the world. Since then, the success of our restaurant has been a result of the combined assistance from our incredible team of staff, suppliers and the local community.
“We would like to give thanks and appreciation to everyone who has aided and supported the business. As our time at Loch Bay comes to a close, Stein remains our home and we both look forward to beginning new chapters in our personal and professional lives.
“We will always be immensely grateful to all our customers and staff for the opportunity and privilege of creating so many happy moments and memories that will stay with us forever. Thank you so much for being part of our story.”
Replying to the announcement, chef Calum Montgomery of Edinbane Lodge wrote: “What a loss to Skye’s food scene.
“Michael and Laurence, you’ve been an inspiration to so many of us. What you’ve achieved at Loch Bay over the last ten years has been incredible, and the impact you’ve had on Skye’s food scene can’t be overstated. You’re both true Skye legends and should be incredibly proud of everything achieved.
“Wishing you both nothing but the very best for whatever comes next From all the Edinbane team x”
The restaurant opened in 2016 and became known for its fresh seafood. The Michelin Guide awarded the business a Star just 18 months later.
The Michelin Guide says this of Loch Bay: “This pretty crofter’s cottage sits in an idyllic spot on the Waternish Peninsula and offers commanding views across the countryside to the mountains. It’s a pleasingly simple place with a wood-burning stove, Harris Tweed-covered chairs and a snug, intimate feel.
“The skilfully prepared, intensely flavoured dishes have French undertones but a Scottish heart, with Skye's cold, pure waters providing plenty of seafood. The signature langoustine 'pot au feu' is a prime example, using shellfish landed on the jetty opposite the restaurant.”
Loch Bay will close on 31 October 2026.
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