Skye's only Michelin Star restaurant to close after ten years in business

Loch Bay, Skye’s only restaurant to receive a Michelin Star, is to close later this year, its owners have announced.

The restaurant opened back in 2016 by Michael and Laurence Smith, specialising in local seafood cooked fresh by Chef Michael with French influences.

In a statement, the couple said they started the business to “create a restaurant that reflected our passion for hospitality and gave the warmest of welcomes to guests visiting from all over the world”.

They went on to praise the staff, suppliers and local community for their support over the past decade.

“We would like to give thanks and appreciation to everyone who has aided and supported the business,” they said.

Loch Bay will have its final service at the end of October.

The couple’s greatest achievement came in 2017, when Loch Bay won its Michelin star just 18 months after opening.

A special shoutout was given to Graeme, Isabel and Brennan, who have been with the business since the beginning.

Loch Bay has had “another successful season” according to the Smiths, who say they always hoped it would end in the “most positive way”.

They added: “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.”