The Glenturret Lalique has cemented its reputation as one of Scotland's best restaurants thanks to head chef Mark Donald's exceptional tasting menus. It is also, notably, the first distillery to be awarded a Michelin star. Scottish-born Donald was awarded the star just seven months after opening. The chef’s previous experience includes time spent at Number One at The Balmoral in Edinburgh.
This latest venture has been conceptualised in partnership with Lalique – the heritage French crystal house – so the dining room is suitably sparkly. Expect stunning custom-made sculptural chandeliers overhead, shining their light on crisp white tablecloths below. Views of the landscape surrounding the distillery are afforded thanks to the glass sided dining room, while the intimate 26-cover nature of the space makes things feel special.
The restaurant offers both a bar lunch menu between Wednesday and Saturday, as well as an evening tasting menu daily. Here Mark looks to hero and elevate Scottish ingredient using playful international twists. While things change regularly, you might find starters like raw clams with gooseberry and dulse kicking things off, or a ‘tattie’ scone with winter truffle and caviar. As you can see, no ingredient is too luxurious here, and the price tag reflects that. Dinner costs £150 per person without drinks or service. Meatier, main style dishes include creations such as scallop kedgeree or venison with hay smoked celeriac and sour quince. Both pescatarians and vegetarians are able to order from dedicated billings to suit dietary requirements.
Given its location in a distillery you can expect a stellar drinks pairing too. Things might begin with a light sake with notes of plum, while through the central part of the meal you’ll be treated to carefully chosen wines. Desserts come with a pudding wine – naturally – and things finish with one of the distillery’s signature peaty whisky cocktails.