Down memory lane from 1973 when new restaurant opens in Elgin
Taken from the Northern Scot's files on Saturday, July 7, 1973.
Captain G F P Henry has just opened in Elgin a remarkable restaurant for the North-east of Scotland.
He has achieved a degree of sophistication and style at Park House, South Street, that is not normally found outside capital cities – and then only in the most exclusive clubs.
All the alterations and decorations have been carried out by local craftsmen under the supervision of an architect from Banff who is well known for his sympathetic treatment of old buildings – along with a professional decorator from London.
The hall at Park House had excellent plaster work and a stone-flagged floor. These features have been emphasised by the decoration which has been kept purposely simple and stark.
The cocktail room is very elegant and superbly comfortable with walls upholstered in tan felt, and there are wonderfully luxurious sofas and chairs covered in material woven in France.
A great log fire will be burning in a splendid Adam fireplace.
The restaurant in the basement is reached by a curved stone staircase from the hall. The walls are rough stone and are hung with amusing engravings.
The floor has stunning black and white tiles and the tables are covered to the ground with bright red cotton clothes.
The lighting is subtle and the food and wine are superb.
A French window leads to sunken paved terrace for use in the summer.
The result is one of extreme comfort and luxury, and the food matches the quality of the surroundings.
This will be no surprise to anyone who sampled the fare at the Old Mill Inn, Brodie, where Captain Henry was in charge.
Dancing is encouraged after eating and evening clothes are a necessity on Saturday nights.
