Aramark UK launches Loch & Larder in Inverness with chef Gary Maclean

Aramark UK has launched food collective Loch & Larder in Eastgate Centre in Inverness in partnership with former MasterChef: The Professionals champion Gary Maclean.

The foodservice provider secured the contract with the owners of Eastgate Centre for an undisclosed sum.

Maclean's restaurant, Scottish Kitchen, will take centre stage in the assortment of stalls available at Loch & Larder's food hall concept. The menu showcases twists on traditional Scottish cuisine.

There is also buttermilk chicken at Cluck; pizzas and salads at Inver Mercato; Indian street food at Ness n Korma; and desserts at SweetNess.

Fairground Café is due to open in Loch & Larder later this month.

Maclean said: "We are absolutely delighted to be part of the new food collective in the heart of Eastgate. It is with this passion for celebrating Scotland's larder that I am honoured to partner with Aramark in delivering something truly exceptional at Eastgate. We're proud to champion homegrown produce and support small and independent suppliers."

Janet Wigley, business and industry director at Aramark UK, added: "This is a wonderful and truly innovative development. We look forward to delivering a culinary experience for every lifestyle which will showcase the best of Scottish cuisine. Loch & Larder will become a place to meet, to socialise and to enjoy fantastic food. We look forward to the food collective becoming a go-to destination for the Inverness community, as it boosts both the local economy and local appetites."