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Reading an old brochure on Ardrossan, I came across reference to the British Restaurant in the town. I had never heard of it before and was surprised to find out where it was so thought it would make a pleasant, little local knowledge quiz to ask: a) if anyone else had heard of it; and b) where was it?

George,

The following link explains the origin of 'British Restaurants' and provides clues as to where they might be located. I have never heard of one in the Threetowns though.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rationing_ ... estaurants" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Thanks for that PT. I would say that the Ardrossan restaurant was one of the popular ones. From July 1942 to February 15, 1947 it was used by more than 500,000 people and had supplied 227,897 main meals, 57,786 subsidiary meals and 240,100 teas, coffees and snacks.

A friend suggests that the British Restaurant was located in what is now the Unionist Club in Princes Street, Ardrossan shown below as it was on 10 August 2002.



George

That's the correct answer, George. The brochure says of the British Restaurant: "the premises selected being those belonging to the Unionist Club in Princes Street, which were requisitioned for the purpose by authority of the Secretary of State. These premises were substantially extended so as to provide both a modernly equipped kitchen and seating accommodation for approximately 200 persons."

Kilmarnock Herald and Ayrshire Gazette
July 19, 1946

British Restaurant a Success
Ardrossan's British Restaurant made a net profit of £196 198. 9d last year and Ballie Manuel, introducing the report said that he wished to congratulate officials, staff and supervisor for the very capable way they had carried out their duties. Mrs McBayne, the supervisor, had done a really big job. He would also like to thank the workmen who contributed to the restaurant's proceeds during the year. Police Judge Beggs seconded and corroborated all that had been said, especially about Mrs McBrayne.

Note: McBayne or McBrayne as in article?