Scran Kitchen Opens at Eastgate Shopping Centre After Major Revamp

The food court at Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness is set to undergo a significant transformation with the opening of Scran Kitchen this weekend. The revamped space promises a diverse menu featuring fiery Asian noodles, juicy burgers, and authentic tacos, along with a newly constructed bar offering local ales. This revitalization, spearheaded by the local hospitality group, Cru Hospitality, is expected to create up to 25 jobs in the area.

The food court had remained vacant since its previous tenant departed in February 2023. Plans for its overhaul were announced four months ago, marking a new chapter for the shopping centre. In anticipation of the full launch, Cru Hospitality opened the Scran Café in a nearby unit, which quickly became popular for its bagel and brunch offerings, attracting a loyal customer base.

Innovative Dining Experience

Scran Kitchen aims to inject a “dynamic, marketplace-style vibe” into the food court. The concept focuses on global street food styles, with a menu that ranges from cheesy Italian slices to juicy burgers and authentic tacos, all served in a communal dining environment.

The newly designed space takes comfort and convenience into account, featuring booth seating and flexible dining areas that allow guests to socialize or enjoy a more private experience. The operators have emphasized a commitment to providing “a modest, competitive price point,” ensuring accessibility for families, students, and visitors alike.

Scott Murray, CEO of Cru Hospitality, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “The goal here was simple—make food fun again. Scran Kitchen is playful, affordable, and packed with flavour. We’ve got world-class street food and proper Highland hospitality all under one roof.”

Community Impact and Future Plans

Shopping centre manager Chris Kershaw echoed Murray’s sentiments, highlighting the significance of the new establishment for the local community. He remarked, “Scran Kitchen is exactly what Inverness needed, a fresh, flexible dining experience that champions local talent and global tastes. The team at Cru Hospitality have smashed it again, and we’re thrilled to see Eastgate’s food scene taken to the next level.”

The opening celebration is set for this Saturday, followed by a “launch day” event on August 11, 2023. Customers can enjoy an exclusive 25 percent discount on their visits by downloading the CRU Loyalty App, making it an enticing opportunity for locals and visitors to explore the new offerings at Scran Kitchen.