The former owner of The Mallard brands the move to close The Stag a ‘huge mistake’ as the team behind The National Hotel announced they would close cafe, bar and restaurant
The announcement by the team running the National Hotel in Dingwall that it will close popular The Stag bar, cafe and restaurant on Sunday to concentrate on The Mallard has been labelled a “huge mistake” – by the former owner of The Mallard.
On Monday, the managers of The National announced in a social media post that the bar would close so they could focus on functions and events while they plan to refurbish The Mallard.
The plan is to only open for special events and football while the similarly popular baby group will continue but the times of operation are under review and are expected to be announced soon.
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In a statement management said: “We are still taking bookings for events and parties in the hall and function room but our facilities are now for private use apart from football days.”
They had opened in March 2022 in a move that was universally welcomed in Dingwall after years of the hotel laying empty but since then they have had to contend with skyrocketing inflation and energy prices.
But none other than Fraser Hutcheson who reopened The Mallard after years of the pub being shuttered and making it a success has said that it is not the right thing to do and diminishes Dingwall’s offering of pubs.
He said: “As a local business owner I feel that you are making a huge mistake. Dingwall already has a shortage of drinking and dining options. You should just concentrate on improving the facilities that you already have.”
The reception from patrons of The Stag was not positive as Sybell Brett said: “Big, big mistake. I certainly won't be going to the Mallard and I really don't think your guests will be either. Think again for the sake of your business.”
Fiona Reid said: “That's rather disappointing news. Dingwall desperately needs a decent pub with decent beer and food. We don't have that in Dingwall at all. There's some good cafes, etc, for lunch or breakfast but for an evening pub-type meal it's not good at all.
“Only Tulloch Castle has any local beer on draft or bottle and even that is a recent addition. Otherwise you need to go to Maryburgh, Conon Bridge or Strathpeffer for a pint of non mass-produced beer.”
But there was some understanding for the decision, as Pauline MacPhee asked: “Why are so many giving this so much negativity? They are trying to run a business not a charity community group for locals.
“Anyone that takes on a business in Dingwall and has used initiative like they have to try and meet the needs of the locals and make a profit should be encouraged and reassessed if not cost effective.
She added: “I hope their new plans work out in the future”.
