Boat House Restaurant charts new course

Antrim’s iconic Boat House Restaurant is set to open again on October 10 as Sean and Geraldine McLaughlin, in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, chart a new culinary chapter  for the venue.

Over the next 18 months, they will invest over £150,000 and create 20 employment opportunities, retaining the dedicated staff members who faced job loss under previous ownership.

The Boat House, is located on the first floor at the council-owned Gateway building at Loughshore in Antrim on the shores of Lough Neagh.

The McLaughlins’ portfolio includes the renowned Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy and award-winning Kraken Fish & Chips in Portrush.

Head Chef, Michael McGuigan, who was at the helm when it closed in August, will lead the new team and help breathe new life into the 70-seat venue which will now offer diners a gastronomic journey through Northern Ireland’s finest flavours.

Speaking at the announcement of the new contract, Sean McLaughlin, said: “Today is a great day for the entire McLaughlin family and all our much-valued staff. We’re immensely proud and excited to be able to reinstate one of the best-loved restaurants in County Antrim and beyond.

“It will be our honour to get the Boat House restaurant back to its former glory and even better, offering our guests a taste of Northern Ireland’s finest foods and flavours amidst the serene beauty of Lough Neagh.

“Culinary excellence is not just about food; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences coupled with our famous Northern Ireland hospitality and we will work exceptionally hard to deliver that promise.”