One of the best-known restaurants in Ipswich has been put up for sale by its owner Greene King.

Ipswich Star: Loch Fyne Seafood Bar and Grill in Ipswich.Loch Fyne Seafood Bar and Grill in Ipswich. (Image: Archant)

Loch Fyne, in Duke Street, has been one of the town’s most popular restaurants since it moved into the former electricity sub station in 2002.

Originally called Mortimers, it moved from its original home on the Waterfront and was sold to the Loch Fyne chain, which specialises in fish and seafood in 2005.

Loch Fyne was itself taken over by Greene King in 2007.

However now Greene King has said it is hoping to sell the restaurant – although it remains open at present.

A statement from the company said: “After an extensive review of the business, we made the difficult decision that the restaurant no longer fits within our core estate and we have therefore decided to sell.

“Loch Fyne will remain open while we look for a buyer and will continue to welcome our guests.”

The sale is being handled by estate agent Fleurets which specialises in arranging sales of licenced premises.

It comes at the end of a year that has seen a number of new restaurants open in the town centre – and more could be on the way in 2017.

Loch Fyne’s spectacular premises are very near the university and waterfront – but a significant walk from the town centre itself although it is almost next to the town’s Travelodge hotel.

At 465 square metres it is quite large for a restaurant – it has space for 150 diners.

Although it specialises in fish and seafood, other meals are available and it is especially busy at this time of the year.

The landmark building may make it attractive to potential buyers – especially for a restaurant operator that might be attractive to students as it is next to the University of Suffolk campus and its halls of residence.