12/06/2026
20 years of Scottie’s ~ which, in restaurant years, is roughly equivalent to 140 in dog years and about three in landlord patience.
My mum took on the lease of 36 Scott Street two decades ago. The family still in school and, armed with considerably more enthusiasm than skill, we all pitched in to “refurbish” the place. By which I mean we moved things around, argued about lighting, and tried not to destroy what was already a rather delicate institution.
Scottie’s wasn’t just a fish and chip shop. It had a reputation, a location, and regulars who would absolutely notice if you shifted a chair two inches to the left.
Over the years there have been many lessons, several highs, a few lows best forgotten, and more incarnations than a new head chef with free rein over the specials board. None of it would have been possible without a small army of talented staff, chefs, loyal locals, and generous patrons. You all deserve far more credit than you’ll ever receive in a single Instagram post.
To my mum: thank you for creating spaces that feel less like restaurants and more like slightly glamorous living rooms; for teaching me how to cultivate culture and support talented people; and for inviting me into the business as a partner in 2019.
You’ve given me the freedom to make mistakes (including, but not limited to, a brief and questionable flirtation setting tables with chopsticks) and somehow shape the place into something that still feels like my own vision. I intend to continue growing, occasionally failing, and generally testing your patience all under the reassuring shadow of your example.
As the current custodians of Scottie’s, we know it has never truly belonged to us. Geographically, culturally, and in the collective memory of summers gone by, Scottie’s belongs to this community. Without you, Scottie’s is kaput.
To mark 20 years, we’d love to hear your memories. Whether it was a family tradition, a first date, a long lunch, or a particularly memorable summer evening, please share your stories in the comments below or email us at [email protected]
Here’s to the next 20…
