Tucked into the vibrant heart of Helensburgh, Sugar Boat is a charming neighbourhood bistro where quality, freshness, and seasonality take centre stage. Known not only for its welcoming atmosphere and stylish setting, Sugar Boat offers a culinary experience built on the finest local ingredients, many of which come straight from the market to your plate.
Located at 30 Colquhoun Square, Sugar Boat is open from 9 o’clock Monday to Saturday and from 10 on Sundays, serving everything from breakfast and coffee to lunch, afternoon teas, and elegant evening meals. While the à la carte menu consistently delivers refined yet comforting dishes, it’s the daily and weekly specials that truly showcase the creativity of the kitchen and the best of what’s in season.
Local Produce, Big Flavour
At the heart of Sugar Boat’s specials is a commitment to Scottish seasonal produce. The team works closely with trusted local suppliers, often choosing ingredients based on what’s freshest at the markets that week. This results in dishes that feel alive — vibrant, fresh, and reflective of the landscape from which they’ve come.
What to Expect on the Specials Board
One of the joys of dining at Sugar Boat is the anticipation of what the daily specials board will offer. These dishes are crafted with flair by the in-house chefs, offering both exciting new flavours and inventive takes on familiar favourites.
Recent specials have included:
- pan roasted scottish salmon
- rolled pork belly
- Portobello mushroom pasta
- Sugar Boat fish & chips
Vegetarian and vegan diners are always thoughtfully catered for, with specials that highlight seasonal vegetables in unexpected and delicious ways.The menu always offers something to suit every taste and preference.
Pair It with a Perfect Pour
Every meal at Sugar Boat can be paired with something from the bistro’s extensive drinks list, which includes favourite wines, Scottish gins, and single malts. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to recommend the perfect match for your chosen special, enhancing your meal and elevating the whole experience.
If you particularly enjoy a glass of something during your meal, don’t forget to browse the on-site Wine Store, where many of the bottles served in the restaurant are available to buy and take home.
Stay the Night and Savour More
If you’re visiting from further afield, why not make a weekend of it? Sugar Boat offers four beautifully renovated luxury en suite bedrooms above the bistro. With soundproofing, double-glazed sash and case windows, and elegant furnishings, they offer a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring or an indulgent evening meal.
Room features include:
- King-size bed (Room 3 has a double)
- Large flat-screen TV with sound bar
- High-speed fibre broadband access
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hairdryer, full height mirror, and in-room thermostat
- Laptop-compatible security safe
Wake up refreshed and return downstairs for a hearty breakfast or light morning coffee, complete with a homemade scone or two.
Explore More at Sugar Boat
Before heading home, be sure to stop by the Kitchen Store, a treasure trove of thoughtful gifts, homeware, and stylish kitchen essentials. It’s another way that Sugar Boat brings together culinary passion and everyday living, allowing guests to take a little piece of their visit home with them.
Fresh. Seasonal. Memorable.
So, if you’re seeking a culinary highlight in Helensburgh, don’t miss the chance to explore Sugar Boat’s fresh specials. Each dish is a testament to the bistro’s passion for quality ingredients, inspired cooking, and genuine hospitality.
From market to menu, every bite tells a story — and it’s one you’ll want to return to again and again.
Book your table today and see what’s special at Sugar Boat this week.
