The oldest independent Italian restaurant in Inverness has closed its doors for the final time to make way for a new eating place specialising in steak and seafood.
PRIME opened for business yesterday, replacing Riva on Ness Walk, on the banks of the River Ness in the centre of the Highland capital.
The owner, Inverness-based company Cru Holdings, said it had decided on the change of theme after the city had become “saturated with Italian eateries”.
Kenneth Loades, the firm’s director of operations, said: “Two years of development has led us to the launch of PRIME and I’m really excited to welcome our first customers.
“Although we’re sad to see Riva go, the Inverness restaurant scene has become saturated with Italian eateries.
“We’re confident PRIME offers something not available anywhere else in the area.”
He added: “The motivation for the change in concept is thanks to the entire team’s tireless passion and uncompromising approach to quality local ingredients and exceptional delivery of food.
“We are delighted to finally bring our vibrant menu to customers old and new and are confident they will love it as much as we do.”
Founded in 2009 by managing director Scott Murray, Cru Holdings owns and operates a number of bars and restaurants in Inverness. The portfolio includes Bar One, Scotch and Rye, Dow’s Bar and Bistro and The Keg, as well as tourism business Inverness Travel.
Mr Murray said recently that a successful 2017 had seen the company treble its turnover.
Yesterday, Mr Murray said: “We’re delighted to open the doors of PRIME in what’s been a successful 12 months for Cru Holdings, with further exciting announcements to be made in the coming months.
“Bringing innovative concepts to Inverness is what we do best and locals and visitors have really embraced our other venues, such as Scotch and Rye, so we hope they love PRIME just as much.”
Cru Holdings recently announced plans to expand its new division, set up last year, which offers maintenance services to pubs and restaurants.