INVERNESS LOVES LOCAL: This bistro says ‘ta-ta’ to festive turkey!
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The memorably named Fig & Thistle studio restaurant in Inverness city centre prides itself in serving up a fantastic interaction between customer and staff as well as an amazing international and modern Scottish cuisine.
The bistro on historic Stephen’s Brae just across from Eastgate Shopping Centre has been trading since 2015 and is run by co-directors and long-time friends Richard MacLean and Ian Harrold.
Both agree that encouraging a personal touch is imperative, as seen by the policy of staff wearing their first names on lapel badges. The staff are of course a vital cog, and there is a profit sharing and bonus scheme.
While “walk-in” customers are welcome it is advisable to book at busy times.
Q: Please tell us a little about the bistro.
A: “The customer experience is something to behold,” said Richard. “For example we recently had people eating at five tables downstairs who came in as perfect strangers, but were so impressed with the atmosphere and service and had such a great time that they left to continue the evening together.”
Ian added: “It is a warm, cosy restaurant, the perfect spot to meet new people and learn about good food and wines as well as locally sourced beers.”
Q: What’s happening at The Fig during the festive season?
A: We will not have a traditional British Christmas menu but have a more international festive flavour, although our locally sourced beef and cheeses will still be a big feature. We are going more for Moroccan lamb tagine and Swedish salmon gravadlax among other international dishes.
We are planning to open of New Year’s Eve, though we don’t usually open on Sundays.
Q: Tell us something about the Fig & Thistle that might surprise people.
A: We have a membership card that gives card holders 10% off the entire bill for life! It’s called the Fine Diners Club.
Although it looks small from outside, we can seat 44 on two floors with another 16 on the terrace weather permitting. Having the terrace covered is something we are looking at.
Q: What is it about the Highlands and Islands that makes for an ideal inspiration?
A: Obviously the scenery and Loch Ness are great attractions and now there is the success of the North Coast 500 driving route. Visitors to the Highlands and Inverness is at its centre.
Outdoor activities too are a great draw and we are looking at getting our staff to try some of them so they can pass on the experience to customers.
Q: Who are your Inverness city centre stars?
A: Eden Court Theatre and Leakeys, Scotland’s largest secondhand bookshop, must be up there. We often tell customers that Whisk Away Cafe in Queensgate the Highlander bar in Church Street and Johnny Foxes bar and restaurant on the riverside are well worth a visit.
Q: What makes Inverness city centre a great place to visit, shop and work?
A: It has a great mix of shops and places to eat and drink. There is a great buzz about the city centre and this summer was very busy especially when the cruise liners were in at Invergordon.
Our location on Stephens Brae is pretty unique, and people exploring the city centre are attracted up here with it being so picturesque and are surprised to see just how busy the little street is. It has a lovely atmosphere.
Q: At the heart of every city centre are the events which make it; what are you most looking forward to in Inverness this festive season?
A: The Inverness Hogmanay ceilidh should be well worth a visit although Fig and Thistle will be open!
The town party has a slightly different format this year but its always a good place to gather and welcome in the New Year.
Q: Why is the Inverness city centre gift card the perfect present this festive season?
A: It is supporting the city centre community and attracting people into town. It is a great place to shop and eat out and it looks great when the festive lights go up.
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