A beloved Scottish fish and chip shop with a rich history of nearly 60 years in business is now up for sale, marking the end of an era for the iconic Lochside Café in Dumfries.
Shepherd Chartered Surveyors, the agency handling the sale, has set an asking price of approximately £550,000 for the property. Fraser Carson, an associate at Shepherd, highlighted the cafe’s long-standing presence in the community, noting that it has been serving customers continuously for almost six decades.
The decision to sell the business comes as a result of unforeseen personal circumstances faced by the current owner, who took over operations in 2015. Despite the bittersweet nature of the sale, the cafe presents a promising opportunity for prospective buyers to capitalize on its loyal customer base and strategic location.
Income for the business is derived from both local patrons and the high volume of passing traffic, providing a stable foundation for growth. Carson emphasized that there is room for expansion through initiatives such as extending operating hours, diversifying the menu, and introducing a delivery service.
Included in the sale are all the necessary equipment for running the business, offering a turnkey solution for entrepreneurs looking to step into the food industry. The cafe, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Onesti, occupies a prime spot on Lochside Road, enjoying visibility and accessibility for customers traveling along the A76 and A75 routes.
The surrounding area boasts a mix of commercial establishments, including popular brands like McDonalds, Aldi, Tesco, Greggs, and Costa, indicating a vibrant business environment. Additionally, Dumfries town center is just a mile away, providing further opportunities for attracting foot traffic to the cafe.
The property itself features a single-story layout with a modern facade, comprising a spacious sales area, two preparation zones, a kitchen, office, storage facilities, and restroom. A notable feature is the large private patio, which offers potential for outdoor seating arrangements, enhancing the dining experience for customers.
As the Lochside Café transitions into new ownership, it leaves behind a legacy of serving up traditional Scottish fare and fostering community connections. The sale represents a chance for a new chapter in the cafe’s storied history, promising fresh ideas and continued success for this beloved local establishment.
