When asked to choose a signature dish from their restaurants, McQuaid’s choice shows how each interprets the same ingredient in a different way. “Both feature a halibut dish that is one of the most popular items on the menu,” she notes. At Blue Mussel, the focus is on traditional seasonings like dill, celery seed, mustard powder and bay leaves. “This dish embodies the classic, coastal flavours that our guests love,” says McQuaid. At Slaymaker, the same fish is seasoned with Moroccan spices and served with an Indian katchumber salad, reflecting that location’s innovative spirit. “Both dishes perfectly capture the essence of their respective locations,“ explains McQuaid, “and
what you might think of a skipper, he did not drink, which inspired us to create this non-alcoholic delight. We use fresh strawberries and rosemary-infused simple syrup combined with lemonade and a splash of soda.” The creation of innovative cocktails is a hallmark of the Blue Mussel Café and something that inspired McQuaid and Murphy as they opened a second restaurant in Charlottetown. Slaymaker & Nichols– named after a 19th-century circus that once occupied the space where the restaurant now sits–was initially conceived as a cocktail and tapas bar. It now offers a full restaurant menu that covers brunch, lunch and supper, but the creativity of the cocktails remains. Murphy is the driving force behind the cocktails and often draws inspiration from a single ingredient. “An example of our creative process occurred just recently,” notes McQuaid. “We had some lemon basil growing around our street patio that needed trimming. Immediately inspired, Steve created the Street Basil Smash, which features lemon basil, rosemary simple syrup, lemon and gin.” With its timeless, elegant décor, Slaymaker & Nichols is a place where people love to linger. For those who wish to extend their stay, three luxurious guest rooms are available above the restaurant.
From its harbourside location, the Blue Mussel Café offers the freshest seafood, purchased from a nearby dock every morning.
show that while the restaurants may look very different on the
outside, the philosophy behind them is the same: providing an exceptional dining experience based on creative use of local ingredients.”
BLUE MUSSEL CAFE 312 Harbourview Dr, North Rustico 902.963.2152 bluemusselcafe.com
SLAYMAKER & NICHOLS 82 Fitzroy St,
Charlottetown 902.629.3411 slaymaker.ca
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