A dynamic couple in Abernethy, Rebecca and James Irving-Lamb, are marking a remarkable first year in business with their beloved establishment, The Nook Coffee Shop and Larder. Their decision to leave previous careers and invest their energy into this local venture has truly blossomed, with the cafe quickly becoming a vibrant cornerstone of the Perthshire village.
Since opening its doors last November, The Nook has garnered significant community support and positive attention. In a notable shift within Abernethy’s local landscape, the recent decision to list The Crees Inn for sale has positioned The Nook as the sole hospitality venue, underscoring its growing importance as a social and culinary hub for residents and visitors alike.
The Irving-Lambs have been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic reception from both within Abernethy and further afield. Rebecca notes that patrons are travelling from as far as Dundee, Aberdeen, and even Edinburgh, drawn in by word-of-mouth recommendations and a strong presence on social media. This widespread appeal is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and community spirit. Dedication to Homemade and Local Excellence
At the heart of The Nook’s success is a steadfast dedication to offering an entirely homemade menu, from freshly baked goods to savoury delights. This commitment extends to meticulously sourcing ingredients from local farms and the local butcher, ensuring that everything served is of the highest quality and supports the regional economy. Imagine the aroma of artisanal bread, pastries crafted with Perthshire berries, and hearty meals featuring produce from the fertile lands surrounding Abernethy – it’s a sensory experience built on local pride.
The couple’s passion for their work is evident, with Rebecca candidly describing it as a “24/7 job,” especially while balancing the demands of family life with three children. However, this round-the-clock dedication is seen as crucial for upholding their original vision and maintaining the high standards that define The Nook. A core philosophy for Rebecca and James is ensuring that every customer who walks through their door feels acknowledged and personally welcomed, fostering an atmosphere of genuine hospitality that many cherish. Culinary Events and Future Aspirations
In response to the outpouring of community appreciation and its new role as the village’s primary social space, The Nook has begun organising a series of special culinary events. These carefully curated evenings include refined fine dining experiences, delightful afternoon teas with unique twists, and more casual, convivial beer and burger nights. These initiatives are designed not only to thank their loyal clientele but also to fill a vital void in the village’s social calendar, offering diverse options for gathering and enjoyment.
The Irving-Lambs acknowledge that prioritising local sourcing can sometimes incur additional costs compared to larger, more distant suppliers. However, they firmly believe in the value this brings, noting that their pricing remains competitive, often more favourable than other nearby establishments that may not champion local produce to the same extent. This transparent approach resonates with customers who appreciate supporting local businesses and enjoying fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Looking ahead, Rebecca and James harbour aspirations for The Nook’s continued growth and evolution. Should sufficient community support continue, they are keen to explore the possibility of obtaining a full licence. This would enable them to expand their offerings further, potentially introducing a selection of local wines, craft beers, and spirits, thereby enhancing the evening dining experience and further solidifying The Nook’s role as Abernethy’s cherished and versatile village hub. The future looks bright and flavourful for this dedicated Perthshire enterprise.
Since opening its doors last November, The Nook has garnered significant community support and positive attention. In a notable shift within Abernethy’s local landscape, the recent decision to list The Crees Inn for sale has positioned The Nook as the sole hospitality venue, underscoring its growing importance as a social and culinary hub for residents and visitors alike.
The Irving-Lambs have been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic reception from both within Abernethy and further afield. Rebecca notes that patrons are travelling from as far as Dundee, Aberdeen, and even Edinburgh, drawn in by word-of-mouth recommendations and a strong presence on social media. This widespread appeal is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and community spirit. Dedication to Homemade and Local Excellence
At the heart of The Nook’s success is a steadfast dedication to offering an entirely homemade menu, from freshly baked goods to savoury delights. This commitment extends to meticulously sourcing ingredients from local farms and the local butcher, ensuring that everything served is of the highest quality and supports the regional economy. Imagine the aroma of artisanal bread, pastries crafted with Perthshire berries, and hearty meals featuring produce from the fertile lands surrounding Abernethy – it’s a sensory experience built on local pride.
The couple’s passion for their work is evident, with Rebecca candidly describing it as a “24/7 job,” especially while balancing the demands of family life with three children. However, this round-the-clock dedication is seen as crucial for upholding their original vision and maintaining the high standards that define The Nook. A core philosophy for Rebecca and James is ensuring that every customer who walks through their door feels acknowledged and personally welcomed, fostering an atmosphere of genuine hospitality that many cherish. Culinary Events and Future Aspirations
In response to the outpouring of community appreciation and its new role as the village’s primary social space, The Nook has begun organising a series of special culinary events. These carefully curated evenings include refined fine dining experiences, delightful afternoon teas with unique twists, and more casual, convivial beer and burger nights. These initiatives are designed not only to thank their loyal clientele but also to fill a vital void in the village’s social calendar, offering diverse options for gathering and enjoyment.
The Irving-Lambs acknowledge that prioritising local sourcing can sometimes incur additional costs compared to larger, more distant suppliers. However, they firmly believe in the value this brings, noting that their pricing remains competitive, often more favourable than other nearby establishments that may not champion local produce to the same extent. This transparent approach resonates with customers who appreciate supporting local businesses and enjoying fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Looking ahead, Rebecca and James harbour aspirations for The Nook’s continued growth and evolution. Should sufficient community support continue, they are keen to explore the possibility of obtaining a full licence. This would enable them to expand their offerings further, potentially introducing a selection of local wines, craft beers, and spirits, thereby enhancing the evening dining experience and further solidifying The Nook’s role as Abernethy’s cherished and versatile village hub. The future looks bright and flavourful for this dedicated Perthshire enterprise.