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Scotland’s former national chef of the year has announced plans to open his first independent restaurant at an Aberdeenshire beauty spot this summer. Orry Shand, 36, is now breathing new life into the former Falls of Feugh restaurant, near Banchory, which closed its doors at the end of 2025.
A major half a million-pound interior makeover of the venue is now underway, which will create an intimate destination restaurant with views towards the river and surrounding woodland. 10 local hospitality jobs are also being created as part of the development.
Taking inspiration from its dramatic riverside location, the restaurant has been renamed and will now be known as Falls by Orry Shand.
Rooted in Royal Deeside, the venue will celebrate local produce and the region’s distinctive character. Led by Orry and his team, a set multi course tasting menu comprising between 12 to 15 servings will blend Scottish ingredients with Nordic inspiration and classic French cooking techniques.
Orry was crowned Scottish Chef of the year 2019 and National Chef of the Year 2024-25. He has worked in kitchens from the age of 14, with career highlights including the former Michelin-starred Number One at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, as well as under the mentorship of Andrew Fairlie at the two Michelin star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at The Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire.
Orry is also making his TV debut on the new series of the BBC’s Great British Menu on Tuesday 3rd March, when he will be representing Scotland and Aberdeenshire as part of the ultimate banquet contest. He will feature in the 2026 series this spring, alongside some of the UK’s other top chefs.
Former Scottish chefs and judges who have appeared on Great British Menu in previous years include Lorna McNee, Adam Handling, Calum Montgomery, Roberta Hall-McCarron and Stuart Ralston.
Commenting on his own independent restaurant launch and his TV debut, Orry said: “This is without doubt one of the most personal achievements and significant milestones in my 22-year culinary career.
“Being Aberdeenshire born and bred, it means so much to me, my family and team to be rooted in the region, celebrating its local produce and its distinctive character.
“This site offers the perfect riverside location to launch my own independent restaurant. We looked at several locations in the shire and city but fell in love with the Falls site as soon as we saw it, as it’s so dramatic. The building itself is full of history and character, creating a relaxed fine dining experience, like you’re dining at home.
“The intimate venue will allow us to provide personal attention to each guest. There will also be a seamless flow between rooms, creating a curated journey.
“I’m also extremely proud to be representing Aberdeenshire and competing to represent Scotland on national TV, as part of the BBC’s Great British Menu this spring.
“I’d like to thank my Wife, family, friends and team for their continued support, which really has made this become a reality.”
Originally from Ellon, Orry is married to his wife Brooke and has two young daughters.
Falls by Orry Shand is located at Bridge of Feugh, near Banchory, which is around 20 miles from Aberdeen.
The restaurant will be open for dinner four nights per week from Wednesday to Saturday from summer 2026.
Itinerary: The Mediterranean aha Forum, in Partnership with VisitMalta Incentives & Meetings
Chef News is sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
