Simon- The Stables Manager

Having started his Torridon career as our 1887 restaurant’s food and beverage duty manager, Simon Ribalet recently became our new manager of Bo&Muc and The Beinn Bar, taking on a new role with a different team with a different atmosphere. We sat down with him to find out how he’s been able to expand his hospitality experience whilst at The Torridon, and how he’s finding his new position.

What is your role here at The Torridon? 

As Manager of Bo&Muc and The Beinn Bar, my role is to manage all food & beverages operations. Mostly, I will guide the team to deliver a five-star service, with passion and interest. Productivity and team performance are also priorities as we aim to develop people skills during their working time with us.

What originally brought you to work at The Torridon? 

What really inspired me to come to the Torridon was the amazing location and what the resort has to offer; a kitchen garden capable of delivering food all year long to the restaurant, cows and pigs that are being fed on site, overall a big use of our local suppliers. At the same time, the whisky bar was very attractive!

You used to work at the fine-dining 1887. how does your work differ at Bo&Muc and The Beinn Bar in comparison?

I have been given more responsibility and autonomy in my new role. The atmosphere we have here is more relaxed even though the standards we fix are high. Details of service are more informal, but the overall experience stays the same.

What made you want to work at Bo&Muc and The Beinn Bar?

The challenge of bringing the restaurant to a higher standard, and the responsibility that goes with it in terms of service, team leading, environmental footprint, and marketing. I have the opportunity to understand what it is to run a business from top to bottom, day to day.

What does your job entail on a day to day basis?

The morning shift is about making sure breakfast service is going well, and handling check outs, alongside some office work such as rotas and stock orders. The afternoon shift is about guest service, highlighted by evening shifts which are our busiest moments.

What do you do on your days off?

I spend time with colleagues, either going in town or for walks.

Is there any advice you would give to someone applying to join the Torridon team? 

Be passionate, give the best you can, and you will learn a lot with amazing opportunities coming for you.