This June from the 22nd of June, Sol y Sombra in Broughty Ferry will officially relaunch as Velvet Tide, a modern Scottish house of hospitality inspired by folklore, mythology and the traditions of Scotland’s coastal communities. Led by hospitality entrepreneurs Kelly Fairweather and Paul Fairweather, owners of The Selkie in Dundee and The Ferry Selkie, the rebrand marks a new chapter for the 45 cover restaurant and 30 cover in the bar downstairs, transforming it from a Mediterranean-inspired venue into a destination rooted in Scottish storytelling, local produce and warm, welcoming hospitality.
Velvet Tide is inspired by the legend of a Cailleach who fell in love with a travelling merchant and made her home by the sea in Broughty Ferry. The concept brings together storytelling and Scottish hospitality across a relaxed, all-day dining venue. Upstairs, The Cailleach Dining Room offers a more refined dining experience, with warm tartans, dark green panelling and low lighting designed for slower, intimate evenings. Downstairs, The Merchant Bar provides a more informal space with fireside seating, champagne by the glass, a curated whisky list and live music into the night. Together, the two spaces create an all-day destination for dining, drinks and live music, moving from relaxed lunches to late evenings.
The food offering will reflect this shift, with a menu celebrating Scottish ingredients and comforting, seasonal cooking. Signature dishes will include venison stovie croquettes, fresh local lobster with pomme Anna, and a selection of seasonal Scottish dishes inspired by the coast and countryside. The drinks menu will feature cocktails inspired by characters from the venue’s folklore, including Gentle Annie, a champagne-based cocktail, and Lachlan, a contemporary take on an Old Fashioned made with Rum Bothy Run and fresh lime juice.
Kelly Fairweather, owner of Velvet Tide, said:
“Velvet Tide is areflection of everything I love -Scottish stories, warm welcomes, beautiful food and creating spaces where people feel at home. I’ve spent the last two years trying to make Sol y Sombra something it simply wasn’t, and I’ve realised that real success is about honesty. This rebrand is about stepping into something that finally feels right, for me, for my team, and for our guests.”
While the concept is new, Velvet Tide continues the same focus on welcoming, characterful hospitality that has underpinned Kelly Fairweather’s previous businesses. The rebrand reflects both the building’s nearly 200-year history and a refreshed approach for the future.
Images here
Address: 27 Gray St, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 2BH