August 2016 - Bite Magazine

Take
Me I’m
Free
Mia Italian
Kitchen
Now Open in
Morningside!
See p.21
www.bite-magazine.com
August 2016
Restaurant & Bar Reviews,
Food, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Listings
Written
by
locals!
Your Independent, Local Guide to Eating and
Drinking in Edinburgh
Cooked up by
Mark Earl
Rachel Edwards
Lea Harris
Leila Kean
John Robertson
Nikki Welch
Sharon Wilson
James Wrobel
Subbing by
Leila Kean
Front Cover
Thanks to Mia Italian Kitchen
In this issue
04 Salt ‘n’ Sauce
07 Review The Shore
08 Review Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux
11 Review Mumbai Mansion
12 Ethical Eating Food for Thought: Feeding Healthy Eating
with Education
13 Vino Wine Café at The Arches
14 Review Archerfield Walled Garden
16 Beer Cynic to Win It – Fierce Beer
17 Tales of Craft Beer 40 Craft Breweries in Edinburgh?
19 Wine August and the Festival
21 A Model Italian Restaurant
23 Cocktails Badger & Co
25 Food as Medicine, with CNM Is 'Going Paleo' Healthy?
26 Off the Trolley Fringe Eating
27 What’s in Season Bacon Pancakes
28 Listings
Publisher/Editor
Sharon Wilson I 01383 616126 I M 07780 763613
[email protected] I www.bite-magazine.com
Advertising Sales
Sheila Duffy I 01383 616126 I M 07951 082446
Design I Donna Earl I [email protected]
© Bite Magazine 2016 – All items contained within
this publication are copyright to Bite Publishing and
cannot be taken or edited without the permission
from the copyright holder.
This magazine is printed on sustainable paper.
3
4
Salt ‘n’ Sauce
A sprinkling of what’s happening on the
Edinburgh eating & drinking scene this month
Cadiz is Edinburgh's newest seafood
restaurant located on George Street in the
New Town. Mediterranean cuisine, wine and
cocktails – 77 George Street.
www.cadizedinburgh.co.uk
Come along to Edinburgh's first Fizz
Festival, held at Edinburgh Academy on
29 October. A
truly sparkling
day out, including
over 75 different
Champagnes and
sparkling wines for
you to try and buy,
plus an evening
awards ceremony. VIP tickets include a
tasting, access to one session and the awards
ceremony. Fizz and oysters will be served at
the awards. More online
www.bite-magazine.com
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
unveils Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar at
its 28 Queen Street venue following a
massive makeover. Kaleidoscope, which
opened its doors on 1st August, will be
Edinburgh’s ultimate whisky destination
with more than 200 rare single malt
whiskies. In addition the bar offers
classic whisky cocktails, beers from
Edinburgh Beer Factory and Alechemy,
and a range of bar food.
Scottish oats company, Stoats, is introducing
two new product ranges with the release
of their new Porridge Sachets and Rustic
Scottish Oat Mueslis. Sachets are available in
four different flavours; Original, Multigrain,
Cranachan and Hedgerow Fruit. The new
Rustic Scottish Oat Mueslis are a unique blend
of premium Scottish oats, ancient grains and
real fruit pieces. They are available in two
flavours; Triple Berry and Hedgerow.
Connage Highland Dairy has launched
Dunlop cheese in the USA under the Scottish
Dairy brand. The award winning cheese will
bear the Scottish Dairy brand as a result
of a new partnership between Scottish
Development International and US food
importer Atalanta. Dunlop is an unpasteurised
Scottish hard cheese, which is traditionally
cloth bound and matured for between five and
seven months to create a creamy, nutty taste
and a moist texture.
Nairn’s Gluten Free Super Seeded
Crackers are the newest tasty addition to
the Nairn’s Gluten Free range. Containing
flaxseeds, millet and chia seeds, they are
the perfect partner for many toppings; from
brie and red onion chutney to peanut butter
and chopped banana. Made using 100%
gluten free oats, suitable for coeliacs, those
with gluten intolerance and those choosing
to follow a gluten free diet. Available from
Sainsbury’s, Tesco and ASDA RRP of £1.75.
The Mercat Grill in Whitecraig, East Lothian is holding a Facebook
competition as part of a series of ‘doggy events’ this Autumn. Entrants
simply submit a photo or video via the Mercat Grill’s Facebook page, paying
£3 per category by texting EDCH15 £3 to 70070 or paying staff at the venue.
Entries close at 12pm on 30th September 2016. All proceeds will be donated
to the Edinburgh Dog & Cat Home. More info online.
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6
Congratulations to Mark Greenaway on the
publication of his recipe book Perceptions. The
concept is to show how great Scottish produce can
be used to create culinary masterpieces and in doing
so Mark wants to challenge the perceptions people
may have about Scottish food. Photography is by
Paul Johnston of Copper Mango, foreword is from
Ian Rankin.
If you like beautiful cookbooks – look no further than
AQUACASIA – Culinary Jewels of the Indian
Ocean, which brings together 60 recipes from family
homes and street sellers from the islands in the Indian
Ocean. Overseen by Chef Willibald Reinbacher of Shanti
Maurice, each recipe celebrates the locals' love of food and
traditional recipes.
Kinnerton Just chocolate range is free from gluten,
dairy, eggs and nuts. Bite tried the chocolate mints
which had a high cacao content and intense flavours of
real chocolate and peppermint. Suitable for vegans and
delcicious to boot. Available at Waitrose.
The Gait is hosting a Fringe Craft Beer
and Food Matching Event. 4-6 courses
paired with beers from 4 Scottish Craft
Breweries each week plus tutored
beer tasting. Featuring Fyne, Drygate,
Stewart and Broughton Breweries. A 4 and 6 course beer
pairing menu available all day, every day, featuring beers
from the brewery holding the tap takeover for that week.
0131 556 4481 – More info online
Clearspring Organic
Japanese Umami
Paste is a deeply savoury
concentrated paste that will
enhance the umami flavour
of a dish. Traditionally made
by adding a Koji culture
to rice and leaving it to
naturally ferment, it is then
mixed with soya sauce
and fresh ginger to create
this incredibly moreish
and versatile condiment.
The paste can be added to
unlimited recipes such as
soups, stews and marinades
or used as a dip. Available
in two flavours: Organic
Japanese Umami Paste with
Chilli and Organic Japanese
Umami Paste with Ginger.
Review:
The Shore Yum
7
T
he Shore is a Leith Gastro Pub that
resembles a Brown Café in Amsterdam
with Scottish produce whilst cooking
skill and influence are obviously French.
Perfect then for cosmopolitan Leith.
Bread is broken, water sipped and drinks
ordered as me and Mr Bite scrutinise the
menu.
To start he has the ham hash cake,
poached egg and hollandaise (£6); shredded
flavoursome meat mingles with creamy mash,
a wobbly egg and tangy sauce, a scrummy,
heart-warming dish that could be eaten any
time of the day. I have Queen scallops (£8)
which are pretty spectacular. Presented in the
shell they are sweet and buttery soaking in
pepper and oregano sauce; it's impossible to
resist mopping up this delicious jus with the
freshly cut bread.
For main course Mr B chose the burger but not
any old burger. This was The Shore Bar wild
boar & beef burger with cheddar cheese, baby
gem, gherkins, brioche bun, smoked chilli mayo
and Shore chips (£14.50). The meat was uniquely
flavoursome, juicy and well-ground. Chips
were of titanic size, but golden and crispy with
a creamy rather than a fluffy texture. I don't
often eat burgers but would travel for this one.
For me however, it was the cod wrapped in
Parma ham, roast celeriac, apple, black pudding
bon-bon, carrot purée, mange tout (£17). The
mange tout had been shredded to make a bed
for the fish which, like as is de rigueur with
portions at The Shore, was very generous. Black
pudding bon bons were super crispy with soft
spicy pud; earthy roasted celeriac and fruit plus
silky purée facilitated endless forkfuls of tasty
combos. Yum.
Desserts (£5.75) more than hold their own.
For me then treacle & lime tart with Malibu
gel, coconut ice cream, mango salsa, probably
the only way I would consume Malibu. Great
pastry, sweet gooey filling and cool ice cream
completely hit the spot. Mr B was non-plussed
by his chocolate parfait with cherry purée,
chocolate soil, pralines, biscotti but he was
being unfair. This milk chocolate treat would
more than satisfy most people and I think he
was simply jealous of my tart.
With a good selection of ale and wine added
to The Shore's many laid back charms it is the
perfect spot for weekend brunch, a full on
splurge or weekday supper. (S. Wilson)
The Shore
– 3 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QW
– 0131-553-5080
– www.fishersbistros.co.uk
Opening times
All Day Every Day
Mon-Sat 12pm-Late; Sunday 12:30pm-Late
8
Greywalls Hotel & Chez
Roux
Review:
I
first visited Greywalls almost a quarter
century ago. An impromptu stop-off during
a family ‘magical mystery tour’ drive of
East Lothian left memories of an imposing
driveway, a beautiful country mansion and
flowerful walled garden. As The Silver Fox
and I recently approached the hotel, situated
right next to Muirfield Golf Course, those first
impressions were all the more special in the
context of being our first night away together
in an awfully long time!
Greywalls is an esteemed 5 star venue, with
championship golf, the surrounding landscapes
and comfortable luxury all being notable
draws. Add in the allure of their restaurant,
watched over by legendary French Chef Albert
Roux, and you have destination dining right
there.
The Lutyens-designed property has the
comfy feel and layout of a house that was
originally designed as a private family home,
albeit a rather grand one! Our ridiculously
roomy corner bedroom was a lovely blend of
traditional and modern; split-new bathroom,
olde-worlde fireplace, and period furniture.
The views of the golf course and Firth of
Forth, the icing on the cake.
Cocktail hour was invented in places like
this, and so it seemed perfectly fitting to
sip a classic gin martini whilst we nibbled
on tasty canapés in the bar. Through in the
dining room, The Roux ‘brand’ is a presence
throughout, from framed photos of the great
chef to bespoke plateware.
To start, the Albert Roux twice-baked cheese
soufflé and Isle of Skye scallops were easy
choices. The soufflé as creamy, light and fluffy
as you’d ever hope, surrounded by a melty,
unctuous Gruyère ‘soup’ to mix it in to. A trio
of seared (ever-so-slightly overdone) scallops
were presented on a beautiful stoneware
plate, accompanied by sweet green peas,
braised baby gem, delightfully sweet onion
and a buttery champagne velouté.
The main courses displayed perfection in
execution, seasonal Scottish ingredients given
the classic French treatment. John Gilmour
fillet of beef was flavoursome from the right
amount of caramelisation on the outside,
tender pink in the centre, served with a dainty
potato terrine fondant, chanterelles, other
savoury, woody wild mushrooms, and creamy
sauce Béarnaise.
Main of roast fillet of hake showcased
perfectly why this is such a popular fish.
Served with a beurre noisette the flaky white
fish was spiked with bright flavour pops from
briny baby shrimp, pickled cucumber and salty
samphire.
After a sensible short break, desserts arrived
for a spectacular finale. Another signature dish,
the Albert Roux classic lemon tart boasted
textbook-thin crust, and brought together
citrus notes with caramelised orange purée
and an ice cream.
Special of the night was a picture-perfect
chocolate fondant, replete with oozy
centre, atop crumbly chocolate soil. A softly
flavoured coconut sorbet might just have been
the star of the show, bringing those Bountyesque flavours together. Suffice to say, the
kitchen’s pastry section are a talented bunch.
Breakfast the next morning is a classy, relaxed
affair. An array of cereals and juices from
the buffet and a classic selection of cooked
plates are offered to satisfy all. The Silver
Fox enjoyed his ‘Full breakfast’; full being the
understatement! Peelham Farm sausages, best
quality back bacon, and two cheery sunny
side ups. My Eggs Benny was a more refined
take on the usual, with rolled out toast
rounds, instead of the usual buns and tasty
dried baked ham rather than oily bacon. The
Hollandaise on the soft poached eggs was
delightful, but I missed the classic English
muffins.
It goes without say Greywalls is priced in the
upper echelons of the ‘short break’ world, but
with its unique location, delectable dining and
superior, friendly service, it’s absolutely made
for special occasions. Make up any excuse; it’s
worth it!
Leila Kean writes www.leilappetit.com
Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux
– Muirfield , Gullane, East Lothian EH31 2EG
– 01620 842 241
– www.greywalls.co.uk
9
Photo: Simone Hilliard.
Food at
As well as an extensive wine
list with many sold by the
glass, we now also have
an Extended Food Menu.
Cheese, charcuterie & fish
platters, grilled snails, beef
sandwich, Croque Monsieur
and steamed mussels.
Monthly wine tastings and
private area also available.
St Ann’s Oratory
9 Randolph PLace, Edinburgh.
0131 5381815 • www.ledivin.co.uk
Scottish Restaurant, Brasserie, Wine
& Gin Bar in Edinburgh’s New Town
• Lunch, Dinner & Private Dining
• Celebrations, Graduations, Private Business
Groups
• Reader offer - mention Bite when you book
your table and each diner can enjoy a pre-dining COMPLIMENTARY premium G&T
29-33 dublin street, edinburgh eh3 6nl
tel: 0131 556 2231 – open 7 days
www.stacpolly.com
Review:
Mumbai Mansion Going down a storm
T
he Go-Between posited that the title
'mansion' invoked the refined and
urbane (as opposed to rustic) nature
of the Indian cuisine we were eating. Grouse,
hake, venison, lobster and other fresh Scottish
produce is grilled to retain maximum flavour
and this constitutes the signature cooking
style of Mumbai Mansion, a buzzy Haymarket
restaurant that rose from the ashes of
Michelin-starred Mithas.
Proprietor Merwyn is a man with a purpose
who intends for our meal to be a wellbalanced & tasteful experience.
For starters the Go-Between, glowing from
a rare tropical Edinburgh heat, is quick on
the draw to opt for the cooling chicken &
cucumber salad (£4.95). Finely minced chicken
in a turmeric spiced sauce is rolled in slivers
of cucumber, dressed with matchsticks of
refreshing green apple. My own starter of
Guinea fowl (£7.95) is charred on the Tawa
grill after slow cooking, resulting in deliciously
juicy meat hot with a smoky edge tempered
by a fruity tamarind sauce.
By now cooler & less frazzled, my scoffing
mate was ready to tackle the Butter Chicken
(£10.95) though destined for disappointment
since, for her, Glasgow's Mother India
makes the Mother of all butter chickens.
Nonetheless, this version had a very
pleasing fruity tomatoey spin. Our host had
correctly recommended garlic rather than
a sweet Peshawari naan as a more savoury
complement to the dish's sweet character. My
hake (£13.95), cooked separately from its sauce,
retained its full flavour, beautiful white colour
and flaky texture. Even the mushrooms in the
saffron rice (£3.95) were über mushroomy.
As a finale, we were offered a clean digestive
dessert in the form of mixed sorbets & ice
creams (£4.95). Made fresh in-house, they
possessed a pure fruit quality rather than the
over-sweetened
mass market
flavours. All were
encased in a sesame
tuille lacy basket
that outshone any
brandy snap. We
also enjoyed a trio
of mango (£5.95) in the form of mango & lime
juice shot, mango panna cotta & mango sorbet
on a mirepoix of mango which sent us back
into the gathering thunderclouds ready for
anything. (The Go-Between and S. Wilson – in
cahoots!)
The Mumbai Mansion
– 250 Morrison Street, Edinburgh EH3 8DT
– 0131 229 7173
Reservations
Mon-Sun Lunch 12 noon-2pm;
Dinner 5pm-11pm
11
Food for Thought: Feeding
Healthy Eating with Education
Ethical Eating:
12
W
ith a third of UK children under 15
classed as overweight or obese,
whose responsibility is it to enact
changes in Britain’s food system? The best
approach (as in all things) would see everyone
working together: from government and
industry to teachers and parents. Because
exploring the basic principles of food and
biology is essential, but demonstrating
their role within farming, manufacturing,
cooking and hospitality creates a deeper
understanding.
In Scotland, the Food for Thought programme
brings these elements together. Established
in 2013, the programme is run in partnership
between the Scottish Government, Education
Scotland and BITC Scotland. It’s driven
forward by its coordinator, Vivian Maeda,
who matches schools across the country with
industry professionals from a wide range of
specialisms.
Support is varied and far-reaching; from
supermarkets, department stores and
hotel chains to independent chefs, bakers,
farmers and foragers – but 65% of classes
are delivered by SMEs. Children are not
just shown how to cook, but to understand
where their food comes from, the processes
it goes through from farm to plate, and the
hospitality services that deliver it. That’s what
makes Food for Thought such a unique and
valuable programme.
To date, Food for Thought has received over
26,000 volunteer hours from businesses,
helping 817 schools to not just improve food
education but to re-energise it too. All age
groups are eligible for support, tackling major
health concerns and increasing awareness of
the growing food and drink industry in nursery,
primary and secondary schools. (In 2015, the
food and drink sector was worth £14.3bn to
the Scottish economy, making what we eat
as much a valued employer as a lifestyle
concern.)
Previous Food for Thought projects include a
30 day ‘healthy promise’ lead by John Lewis
for P3 pupils and work experience for S5
students at local Edinburgh restaurant, Kilted
Lobster. Forthcoming projects will challenge
P6 children to a 30 day healthy breakfast
programme in partnership with Jamie’s
Italian, Nourished by Nature and Hamlyn’s
Oats, whilst S4 pupils can undertake work
experience with Holiday Inn.
But Food for Thought is only possible
thanks to the tireless efforts and boundless
enthusiasm of Vivian and her volunteers. If
you can help make a difference and inspire
children with good food experiences, Vivian
would love to hear from you. Please get in
touch at [email protected] or visit
http://www.bitc.org.uk/scotland/
what-we-offer/food-thought. (A. Brewer)
Vino Wine Café at The
Arches
Review:
S
uccessful local off license Vino
Wines has expanded into the
on trade by taking a unit at new
development The Arches just down
from Waverley Station.
This area promises to grow into a
buzzy little corner of Auld Reekie
and Vino Wine Café should slot in
very nicely.
Vino has had considerable success
since they opened several years ago
with popular stores in Morningside,
Broughton Street, Stockbridge and Grange
Loan. Each store has a good selection of
quality wines from around the world, staff
know their grapes and there is free local
delivery. Premium spirits and craft beers also
figure prominently and the Vino Annual Wine
Tasting at Summerhall sells out quickly.
The new store combines an inside and outside
tasting area where you can buy wine by the
glass, the bottle and choose cheese and
charcuterie platters or bar snacks to munch
on. £12 for a large platter will get you three
types of meat and 4 types of
cheese. Corkage is £1.50 for beer
and £5 for wine.
At present business is coming
from nearby council workers,
locals and office staff. It’s very
convenient to grab a bottle for
the train if you commute.
Bite predicts however, that The
Arches will grow into a trendy
little area and Vino Wine Café
will play its part by being an ideal
place to admire the views of Calton Hill, sip,
nibble and people watch. Al Fresco weather
permitting! (S. Wilson)
Vino Wine Café
– 27 East Market Street
– 0131 629 4282
Opening hours
10am-10pm Mon-Thurs
10am-Midnight Fri & Sat
12 noon-10pm Sun
13
14
Review:
Archerfield Walled Garden
F
rom Musselburgh through to North
Berwick, East Lothian’s coastal route is
peppered with tempting food pit-stops.
Archerfield Walled Garden might have the
trump card though; boasting everything from
deli, to café, to the bar supplied with fresh
beer from its own onsite brewery.
We arrived as a family trio (mum, Felix the
2-year-old, and myself) one comically rainy
summer’s day, but were happy to discover a
bright, welcoming haven to enjoy some lunch.
The Archerfield Walled Garden kitchen
sources as locally as possible. With a historic
producing garden, as well as being surrounded
by fertile farmland, it’s no surprise to see a
fresh-looking menu on offer.
To start, we all shared a beautifully presented
platter decorated with cornflowers and
marigold petals. It included rustically chopped
carrot, cucumber and celery crudités, soft
pitta bread, hummous, & blushed tomato dip.
The highlight were the falafel, crunchy from a
sesame seed coating on the outside, aromatic
and more-ish on the inside with cumin and
coriander. Oh, and the wee guy loved the
marinated olives so much, we had to order
extras!
For mains, a burger (£13.50) that would put
most of the capital’s ‘gourmet’ offerings to
shame. A buttered, glazed bun sandwiched
a well-seasoned grilled beef patty, melted
cheese, smoky bacon, juicy tomato and little
gem. Everything in the right proportion,
assembled to perfection. Ultra-crisp chips
done as they should be too! If I’m being niggly,
the veggie slaw was a bit claggy with too
much mayo and the tomato chutney would
probably have been better with a cheese
platter, but no biggie.
Shortie and I shared the fishcakes (£10) which
were made with natural (i.e. undyed) smoked
haddock and mature cheddar. Wrapped in a
crispy golden crumb, there was
a good balance of chunks of fish
and soft mash, although the salt
levels were a bit high. Salsa verde
with capers, dill and cornichons
added pops of tangy flavour,
offsetting the buttery creamed
leeks and fishcakes themselves.
ingredients and care in the
way the food is cooked and
presented at Archerfield Walled
Gardens. With the eponymous
garden itself, play area (and soon
to open Fairy Walk), it’s a lovely
family-friendly destination with
plenty to see, taste and explore;
rain or shine. Keep an eye out
for upcoming events and evening supper clubs
too.
As full as our collective bellies
were, it would have been a tragic move to
avoid the sweet stuff to finish. You should see
the array of temptation the café’s counter and
display fridge holds! A classic lemon tart had a
lovely crisp pastry shell, with creamy but zingy
lemon filling, topped with fresh raspberries
and served with ultra-thick whipped double
cream. In a ‘blink and I missed it’ moment...
granny & Felix wolfed down a shared slice of
classic Victoria sponge.
The Walled Garden
It’s clear that there’s a love for fresh
9:30am to 5pm
hairby
boom
NOW OPEN IN
BRUNTSFIELD
INAA AWARD FOR BEST
BARBERS IN SCOTLAND
136 Bruntsfield Place
EH10 4ER
0131 229 5566
www.boombarbers.co.uk
Leila Kean writes www.leilappetit.com
– Archerfield Estate, Dirleton, East Lothian
EH39 5HQ
– 01620 388 588
– www.archerfieldwalledgarden.com
Summer opening hours
15
16
Beer:
Cynic to Win It – Fierce Beer
Y
ou know that
feeling when you
take one look
at something and know
instantly that it just isn't for
you? You might be missing
out on something, but there
is a tiny sense of liberation
when you realise that you
can now devote your time,
effort and brain cells to
other pursuits.
Things that I have written
off include: chewing gum,
Game of Thrones, team
sports, beetroot, cars, fancy
dress and beards. I stress
that whilst I see value in all
these*, I just cannot muster
up any enthusiasm for them
and would rather leave
them for a more appreciative audience.
So when I first caught sight of the inaugural
beers from Aberdeen’s newest brewery I was
happy to dismiss them out of hand.
The Fierce beers are proudly, aggressively,
loud, “cool” and (in my opinion) a bit stupid
looking.
My toes curled as I took in the “edgy” beer
names, distressed typography and punky
artwork. Many new breweries look to emulate
Brewdog's marketing strategy without having
the brewing expertise to back it up and I
simply assumed that Fierce were another of
these “all mouth and no trousers” operations.
I was wrong though. Despite my initial
misgivings, I have to say that
Fierce are brewing some
really impressive beer; beers
that sit bang in the centre
of the Venn diagram marked
experimental, affordable and
drinkable. We've had them
in store for a while now and
I've drunk & enjoyed enough
of the stuff to forgive them
for the gauche labels.
Best of a generally excellent
bunch is the Peanut Riot,
a chunky little porter
augmented with a handful of
salted peanuts.
It looks like a standard
porter in the glass; murky
black body, with a modest,
tanned leather head. The
nose has a really attractive (honest!) bouquet
of leaf mulch and Reese's Pieces. It's a full
bodied, punchy beer with an oily, savoury,
umami-rich mouthfeel and a lengthy finish.
It's a more serious porter than its label
implies and a weightier beer than it's 6.5% abv
suggests.
It makes for a very satisfying postprandial
digestif and at less than £3 a bottle it's quite
keenly priced.
Fierce deserve a bucketful of credit
for brewing it and some other really
accomplished, interesting beers that transcend
the Shoreditch friendly branding. (J Wrobel,
Cornelius Beers & Wine).
*except beetroot. That can GTF.
40 Craft
Breweries in Edinburgh?
Tales of Craft Beer in Edinburgh:
I
n researching the history of brewing in
Edinburgh for our craft beer tours www.
scot.beer, we discovered a brewing past
that has long been forgotten. It’s a history
to be very proud of, and one that today’s
modern craft brewers are writing the next
chapter of.
Ask any unsuspecting tourist to Edinburgh
what Scotland is known for the world over
and whisky will be the answer. But in 1840
Scotland was exporting more bottled beer
around the world than anyone or anything
else. It wasn’t until the entrepreneur
Andrew Usher perfected the art of blending
whisky (and the simultaneous timing of the
Phylloxera vastatrix beetle causing devastating
effects on Cognac production in France) that
the whisky export boom was born.
Brewing in Edinburgh started when the
monks of Holyrood Abbey sunk a well in
the 12 century, these wells went on to be
known as the charmed circle, the water was
very pure, filtered through the volcanic rock
of Edinburgh and contained an excellent
amount of mineral content – perfect for
producing beer.
Edinburgh was and is an incredible place
to brew beer utilising barley grown in
the Lothians, a supply of coal to power
breweries, water from the charmed circle
and good railway links.
We even had our own system for naming
beer, it wasn’t all IPAs and Pale Ales back
then but unique to Scotland was the shilling
system which historically was the cost of
beer by the barrel from 50/- up to 160/.
You’ll see some remains of this naming
system today although try and buy a cask
of Stewart Brewing 80/- for £4 and see the
look you’ll get in your local pub.
Currently in Edinburgh we have 13 registered
breweries. With the exponential rise of
craft beer does Edinburgh have room to
accommodate the 40 breweries (25 of which
were in the Cannongate) that once existed in
the 1880’s? Only time will tell! (J. Robertson)
www.scottishcraftbeerexperience.com
Ask any unsuspecting tourist to Edinburgh what Scotland is
known for the world over and whisky will be the answer. But
in 1840 Scotland was exporting more bottled beer around the
world than anyone else...
17
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Wine:
August and the The Festival
Extra milk
Spare pillows
Bread in the freezer
Cheese supply for late night cheese on
toast
Ponchos
Sound familiar? You’re obviously stocking
up to turn home into a temporary B&B for
August. It’s pretty hard to go the whole
month without lending your spare room
to someone or a whole string of visitors,
making the most of their own version of
AirBnB. In your unofficial role as Festival
Guide, ticket booker and occasional
feeder you may find yourself required to
pour a glass of wine or two and as well as
rustling up a late night snack.
It’s often easier to have a couple of
‘house’ wines over these periods,
especially as you won’t be cooking setpiece dinners, rather putting your feet up
for an hour (if you are lucky) in between
shows and snacking. What you need
are good, all-rounders that can provide
the backdrop to food, chat and some
highbrow fringe show analysis.
These shone when I tasted them recently
and are exceptionally good value for money.
Co-op Truly Irresistible Fiano
Fiano is a Southern Italian grape that shows
up occasionally on our shelves. It has a really
interesting taste profile and has the
crispness of Sauvignon with the body of
Chardonnay. Don’t let that put you off
if you don’t like either of them though.
It’s definitely got its own style, with a
waxed lemon, ripe peach freshness and
a slightly nutty aftertaste. It is fuller in
the mouth than lighter whites giving
you something to chew over and a good
foil for almost anything you want to eat
with it.
£6.99 Co-op (not all stores)
Co-op Truly Irresistible Barbera
d’Asti
This is another relatively unseen Italian
wine, this time from the North of
Italy. It is a lighter style than some of
its warmer climate reds and is a bit
of a mini-Barolo. It works because it
combines delicious pure dark cherry and
red berry flavours with a tang of cherry
and a light layer of tannins meaning you
can drink it on its own and with a really
wide combination of food from pizza
to lamb.
£6.99 Co-op (not all stores)
And if you’re coming to stay at mine over
August, feel free to pop into the Co-op and
grab a bottle to bring. (N. Welch)
www.languedocwinetours.co.uk
19
Fizz Festival
Edinburgh’s very first Fizz Festival will
take place on Saturday 29 October at the
Edinburgh Academy.
A truly sparkling day out, including:
• Over 100 different Champagnes and
sparkling wines for you to try and buy
• Free wine carrier
• Local delivery service
• Exclusive fizz discounts
• An opportunity to speak to producers
and suppliers and learn more about
your favourite fizz
• Competitions and prizes
• Your chance to vote in The Fizz Festival
People's Choice Awards, Scotland
• An exclusive awards ceremony with
canapés and fizz (of course).
There are some interesting masterclasses
during each session including a Tattinger
Champagne and Jelly Beans pairing. There
will also be food including oysters from
The Oysterman and an evening awards
ceremony to enjoy.
There are two sessions which run from 12.00 until 15.00 and 16.00 until 19.00.
The awards ceremony takes place at 19.30. The categories include:
• Best Champagne
• Best Sparkling Wine (UK)
• Best Sparkling Wine (Rest of World)
Tickets are now on sale from www.crackingwine.co.uk or visit us on
Facebook - www.facebook.com/fizzfestivaledinburgh
21
A Model Italian Restaurant
P
atrik and Kristina Zace are a
success story. Young and
glamorous they have
Mediterranean and European
roots and opened Mia in Dalry
some three years ago.
Both had had previous success,
Patrik as a businessman and
Kristina as a model and 'the face'
for many top campaigns.
Their restaurant has become hugely popular
with locals in Dalry and they have just opened a
second branch of Mia at 394 Morningside Road.
Both are neighbourhood restaurants aimed at
locals. Kristina says success is primarily due
to the "food on the plate" along with friendly
service and surroundings.
The menu is traditionally Italian
with a good focus on seafood,
meat and vegetables, wines are
mostly Italian with a few popular
additions - Rioja, Malbec,
Chateauneuf du Pape. Chefs
come from various regions in
Italy all bringing their own tastes
and skill to the kitchen.
Kristina says that opening the second
restaurant in Morningside is 'a dream come
true'. We are sure they will be welcomed.
Mia Italian Kitchen
– 96 Dalry Rd and 394 Morningside Road
– 0131 629 1750 – [email protected]
– Mia-restaurant.co.uk
Chefs
tasting
masterclasses
TWO
tickets with
showguides
from £19
edinburgh
quote‘Bite’
inverlieth park
5-7 august
FOODIESFESTIVAL.COM ● 0844 995 1111
Cocktails:
Badger & Co A Fine Fizz Friday
I must admit I hadn’t intended to review
Badger & Co. In fact, until my female
colleagues invited me to said establishment
for some Friday Fizz, I hadn’t even frequented
it. Well, that’s about to change...
It all started when the waiting staff kindly
pulled two tables together and dragged across
some very comfortable leather chairs so my
all female group (excluding yours truly, of
course) could sit together under the steely
stare of a moustachioed fox, or was it a
badger? I can’t quite remember. A quick check
of the drinks menu led to an immediate order
of their refreshing Cavit Lunetta Prosecco (£23
per bottle) for my fizz loving companions and
a need for me to sample a Forage And Fortify
(£8.00). I say need, more of an insatiable
curiosity to try what seemed a fruity variation
of the Vesper.
I was not disappointed. The combination of
Tanqueray 10 Gin, Sipsmiths Damson Vodka,
Lillet Blanc and grapefruit bitters was a
delight. Fruity, ever so slightly sweet but with
a little edge of bitterness. A perfect apéritif
for a perfect Friday night. Unfortunately for
me it wasn’t really an aperitif unless you count
an excellent triple cooked beef dripping chips
dinner!
loosened some tongues), I thought it might
be an appropriate time to order more fizz and
another cocktail. Always a good distraction. This time I chose the Spring Thyme (£8.00).
Another gin based drink using Edinburgh
Cannonball mixed with Benedictine, Martini
Extra Dry, thyme, citrus and egg white and
again, a well balanced refreshing aperitif. The
small sprig of thyme nestling in the foam
atop the drink was a masterstroke, adding just
enough herbaceousness to make the drink
truly stand out.
My only disappointment was my last cocktail
ordered as the conversation once again
descended into comparisons men would
rather not talk about! The Bonnie Prince (£11)
made with Lagavulin, Fernet Branca, mint,
demerara sugar and orange bitters was a
little to heavy on the Fernet Branca and a
little too light on the sugar for my taste, but
nevertheless was still an interesting drink,
maybe one for another time.
So yes, I will be back but I don’t think I’ll ever
eat a sugar puff again! (M Earl)
Anyway, as the conversation drifted on from
the travails of our working week to a rather
critical examination of the pros and cons of
waxing versus shaving (surely the fizz had
www
com
barware cocktailware tableware
23
CNM
COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
TRAINING SUCCESSFUL PRACTITIONERS
Turn your passion for Nutrition into a career!
Become a Nutritional Therapist
through part-time study in Edinburgh with CNM,
the UK’s leading training provider in natural health
Find out more at one of our free-to-attend Open Evenings in
Edinburgh. Next dates: Thursday 4th August, Thursday 1st
September, 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
Reserve your place for either event on line at:
www.naturopathy-uk.com 01342 410 505
We don’t scrap our
spuds just because
of their shape
The best selection of local,
organic, seasonal, vegetarian,
vegan and free-from food in Edinburgh
www.realfoods.uk
Natural • healthy • ethical • shopping
Real Foods established 1963 • Shipping worldwide since 1975
Visit us at 37 Broughton Street or 8 Brougham Street, Edinburgh
Shop from over 12,000 vegetarian, organic, Fairtrade
and special diet products in-store and online
Food as Medicine, with CNM:
Is ‘Going Paleo’ Healthy?
T
he Paleo diet, also known as
the ‘caveman diet’, refers to
the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of
our ancestors during the Paleolithic
Period, or Old Stone Age. The Paleo
diet includes meat, poultry, fish, eggs,
vegetables, fermented foods, fats
(from coconut, avocado and olives),
sea salt, spices, and some fruit and
nuts. It avoids dairy, grains, pulses, all
processed or refined foods/sugars/
sweeteners, seed or vegetable oils, and
fizzy drinks. It also promotes a healthy
lifestyle of physical activity, time
outside, and social connections.
which includes natural wholefoods and physical
exercise is a good start in improving health.
For optimal health, our diet needs to be tailormade specifically to meet our individual needs.
One man’s meat can be another’s poison! We can
take the essence of the Paleo message and adjust
to suit ourselves: eat a variety of whole, natural
foods, mainly organic, plenty plant-based, regular
protein from quality sources, healthy fats; take
exercise, and be happy!
By Nutritional Therapist Atiya Khan, for CNM
(College of Naturopathic Medicine).
Studies on the Paleo diet report lower
blood pressure, some weight loss, and
other improved risk markers for type 2
diabetes and heart disease. However,
the diet is potentially low in calcium,
vitamin D, and fibre. A high meat diet
is also high in the inflammatory fatty
acid omega 6, which is linked to the
degenerative diseases of modern life.
Many of the health benefits conferred
by the Paleo diet are also conferred
by the vegan diet, which also has its
advantages and disadvantages.
So far, it seems that changing from a
refined, processed diet to any lifestyle
You can find out more about training with CNM for a career in Naturopathic Nutritional Therapy, by
attending one of CNM’s free-to-attend Open Evenings in Edinburgh. Next date: 4th August.
For details visit www.naturopathy-uk.com or call 01342 410 505.
For details visit www.naturopathy-uk.com or call 01342 410 505.
25
Off the Trolley:
26
Fringe Eating
I
t’s the month when we can binge on
theatre, comedy, music and dance, not to
mention fireworks! While Edinburgh wins
the love of the world, if the way to your heart
is through your stomach, here’s how to eat
your way through the Fringe.
Breakfast is served with perennial favourite
Shakespeare for Breakfast (which has the
distinction of being the very first Fringe show
I ever saw, back in 2003). The show has been
running for even longer than that, though; this
is its 25th year. Your morning dose of culture
comes with croissants and coffee. Or try the Big
Bite Size Breakfast Show, with croissants, coffee
AND strawberries over three short plays. If
you’ve overslept, they also offer a lunch option.
It’s bring your own sandwiches, but you do get
an extra play as well as the extra few hours’
sleep.
If music with your food you love, Mambo
Italiano (14 and 28 August only) provides live
swing music from the band of Philip Contini
(of Valvona & Crolla) after a three-course
Italian dinner. Fancy your sustenance with a
healthy side of Scottish? The Famous Taste of
Scotland Cabaret Dinner Show at Prestonfield
House might be your thing. A four-course
dinner is followed by Scottish music and
dancing, every night except Saturdays. More
centrally, food and dance is available with the
Scottish Café Summer ceilidh.
If you’ve always wanted your soup with a bit
of Tom Jones, Jojo Bellini’s Kitchen Cabaret is
for you, combining cooking and cabaret. And
a belly laugh goes nicely with a belly-full, so
have a look at the comedy options provided
by Kev’s Komedy Kitchen or George Egg:
Anarchist Cook. The latter sounds particularly
intriguing, as George prepares food using only
hotel room implements.
Or, forget the theatre and just go for the food.
Scottish Craft Beer and Food Matching offers
just that, with up to six courses paired with
Scottish beers. Tommy Miah’s Indian Street
Food Festival also has a food focus, but with
the spicy addition of Indian dancing.
And if all this eating leaves you in need of a
bit of an afternoon sit-down, try digesting
over some storytelling. Chopping Chillies is
described as a modern fairy-tale, set around
curries and chapattis. Happy festival munching
(R. Edwards)
What’s in Season:
Bacon Pancakes
Oh So Naughty and
Oh So Good! Ingredients
4oz self-raising flour
Large pinch of salt and a good
grinding of black pepper
1 beaten egg
Approx 5floz oz milk curdled
with a squeeze of lemon
6 streaky bacon rashers
Maple syrup
W
ell it's that season again when Edinburgh
tightens her girdle as she is about to be
invaded by the weird, the quirky and the
downright odd! The Fringe is upon us, for good or
bad there is no escaping the lunacy of the month.
Having said that August has some cracking food
events with Foodies from 5th (International Beer
Day) – 7th (Raspberries in Cream Day) and umpteen
whisky, gin and beer tastings, pop-up restaurants and
even some of the shows happen to be food related!
One of my comfort foods is recognised on the
9th, Rice Pudding Day; the 16th would make Jack
Sparrow very happy as it's Rum Day! But this month
I'm combining two days for my recipe – 20th,
which is Bacon Lovers Day, and the 24th is all
about waffles. The secret to this recipe is seriously
good bacon; not too thick, not too thin, preferably
streaky or pancetta. The Edinburgh markets are
a good place to source your ingredients; try
Puddledub or see Denise from Peelhams. Shame we
don't have Scottish maple syrup but what the hell,
grab some quality sticky stuff and glug it over the
salty bacon and soft pancakes/waffles. Throw a
banana into the mix and you'll have a hat-trick, the
27th is Banana Lovers Day!
Lea writes http://OfftheEatenTrack.wordpress.com
@BakersBunny on
and
Radio presenter on CastleFM Scotland.
27
Method
• Mix together flour, seasoning, egg and milk
together until you have a smooth, thick
batter (it should slowly slop off the spoon)
• Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle* and
fry one side of the bacon (don't crowd the
pan), flip over and coat cooked side with
the batter, covering the whole slice of
bacon.
• Flip again and cook for a couple of minutes,
turn over again and cook for another
minute.
• Keep warm while you cook the remaining
rashers.
• Serve with lashings of maple syrup.
Enough for three people.
*Can be made in a waffle maker too!
What else is in my basket?
Rabbit, wood pigeon, grouse, hare, grey mullet, John Dory, skate, wild sea bass, wild
trout, scallops, crab, langoustine, French beans, kohlrabi, sweetcorn, artichokes,
chicory, courgettes, runner beans, apricots, nectarines, damsons, greengages,
loganberries,
Listings
28
Restaurants
Authentic African
Jambo Grill and Restaurant – Take your taste
buds on an African (Safari) adventure without leaving
the city. Regular menu changes include scrumptious
starters and indulgent main courses accompanied with
homemade sauces using fresh ingredients. For the
exotic try Zebra, Buffallo, Ostrich, Wild Boar, Kangaroo
and zebra pie. We have African wines, beers and the
new and improved cocktail list including the infamous
'Dawa'. Open Tue-Thu: 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat: 5pm-11pm,
Sun: 4pm-8pm, Closed Monday.
169-173 Gilmore Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9PW
– 0131 228 6088 – www.jambogrill.co.uk
www.facebook.com/jambogrillrestaurant
Bistros and Brasseries
Apiary – Heading up the ever-expanding and
thriving Newington dining scene, Apiary is the
bigger version of Three Birds. In an old Art Deco
bank building, the space is large and airy with
seating for up to 60 in intimate booths or bigger
groups. Daily brunch, lunch, dinner, pre-theatre,
served by knowledgeable, smiley staff. Look out for
seasonal menu changes offering 2 days of half price
experimenting! Mon-Fri 10am-3pm/5.30pm-10pm,
Weekends 10am-4pm/5pm-10pm. 33 Newington
Road, Edinburgh EH9 1QR – 0131 668 4999 – www.apiaryrestaurant.co.uk @apiaryedinburgh
Bijou – A local eatery for breakfast, lunch & dinner,
or maybe just a cheeky glass of wine. An ever
changing menu, available in 3 different sizes, bijou,
medium and main – you choose. Private Dining
available. Free wifi. Also story telling evenings and
wine tasting evenings paired with food. 2 Restalrig
Road Edinburgh, EH6 8BN – 0131 538 0664
– www.bijoubistro.co.uk
Bread Street Brasserie – Fresh. Seasonal.
Scottish. City Centre dining in our elegant, welcoming
brasserie. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Lunch and
pre-theatre menu £14 for 2 courses, £17 for 3 courses.
– 34 Bread Street, Edinburgh EH3 9AF
– [email protected]
– 0131 221 5558
The Shore – Next to the famous Fishers restaurant
on The Shore sits this classic bistro from the same
owners with wood panelling, huge mirrors, open fires
and hearty satisfying food. The food is a creative
mix of classic British dishes with a modern European
twist. Set lunch Mon-Fri, 2 courses £15, 3 courses
£18. Bar snack menu also available all day. Live folk
and jazz musicians entertain customers in the bar on
Tuesdays and Sundays. Open everyday from noonlate.
3 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QW – 0131 553 5080
– www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk
The Olive Branch – With its large windows
and relaxed atmosphere is the perfect place to
enjoy a relaxing brunch, lunch or dinner in the
company of friends or family, with children under 14
welcome until 8pm. Using the best local produce,
we aim to provide inventive seasonal dishes with a
Mediterranean feel, as well as classic comfort food.
Open Mon to Fri 11.45 to 10pm, Sat and Sun 10am to
10pm. 91 Broughton Street, EH1 3RX – 0131 557 8589
– www.theolivebranchscotland.co.uk
Stac Polly Brasserie, Gin & Wine Bar –
Scottish lunch menu with meat, fish, vegetarian
options and sharing platters. Light bites from midafternoon and throughout the evening. Selection
of premium Scottish and London gins and beautiful,
modern Scottish décor. Open 7 days a week from 12
noon until midnight. Mon-Sat 12noon-2pm. Brunch
12.30-3pm on Sundays.
29-33 Dublin Street Edinburgh EH3 6NL
– 0131 5562231 – www.stacpolly.com
Three Birds Restaurant – A firm neighbourhood
favourite in Bruntsfield, Three Birds is a pocketrocket of a restaurant. Small, cosy and busy, menus
change every three months and daily specials
Listings
add more choice. Famous for sharing platters
and great wine pricing, a warm welcome always
awaits. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-2.30pm/6-10pm, satsun 12pm4pm/5pm-10pm. 3-5 Viewforth, Edinburgh
EH10 4JD – 0131 229 3252 – www.threebirds.co.uk @3birdsedinburgh
1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR
– 0131 221 6422 – www.OneSquareEdinburgh.co.uk
The Walnut – Neighbourhood bistro on Leith
Walk. BYOB. The best Scottish and British produce,
real home cooking priced to please your pocket.
Dishes are based on the best produce currently
available so there is a constantly changing menu.
Fresh bread baked daily. 9 Croall Place
– 0131 281 1236.
Purslane – It’s all about the produce at this bijou
restaurant in Edinburgh’s boho neighbourhood of
Stockbridge. Fresh local seasonal ingredients are
the foundation upon which Chef Paul Gunning
creates stunning dishes. He uses a mix of old and
new techniques with a nod to worldwide influences
and the result is top notch dining but in a casual
unbuttoned ambience. 33a St. Stephen Street
Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 5AH – 0131 226 3500 –
www.purslanerestaurant.co.uk – Open for lunch &
dinner Tues-Sat 12 noon-2pm and 6.30pm-11.30pm.
British (Modern)
Californian
Checkpoint – All-day dining and extensive
drinks choices are the offering at the brand new
bar and eatery. Situated close to the old town in
a former church building, Checkpoint’s uniquely
spacious style comes to the fore with an ambitious
renovation by Simon Donne and Nik Whybrew.
An accessible, internationally influenced menu,
has been crafted by Head Chef Phil Lynch, who
focuses on a variety of dishes available in single
or sharing sizes – food to be sociable with. Brunch
has a particular focus with freshly baked scones
and breakfast buns alongside artisan, hand roasted
coffee and a selection of hot drinks. A fine selection
of wines from a local independent supplier plus
a carefully selected range of craft beers, expertly
crafted cocktails that embody the class of past eras
with a modern twist.
Open 9am to midnight. 3 Bristo Place
– www.checkpointedinburgh.com
Calistoga – Current Holders of ‘Speciality
Restaurant of the Year’ at Scottish Restaurant
Awards. Edinburgh’s original and only Californian
restaurant. Our unique fresh food is prepared by our
great kitchen team who are inspired by the flavours
of California. Wine List of over 100 Californian wines
at only £5 above shop prices. Four Private Dining
Rooms available at no extra charge.
70 Rose St. Lane North, Edinburgh EH2 3DX
– 0131 225 1233 – www.calistoga.co.uk
One Square – A vibrant restaurant and bar,
serving an inventive range of dishes by Executive
Chef, Craig Hart. As well as the extensive à la carte
menu, highlights include views of Edinburgh Castle,
Dining at the Pass in the heart of the kitchen, and
interactive gin tastings in homage to the seventy
plus varieties of premium gin.
Fish and Seafood
Fishers in the City – A spacious and stylish
space – the epitome of a classic city centre eatery.
Set in a converted warehouse on cobbled Thistle
Street the contemporary surroundings offer the
perfect venue for a casual lunch or intimate night
out. A firm favourite with locals and visitors for
fabulous Scottish seafood. Set lunch & pre-theatre
menu, 2 courses £15, 3 courses £18, everyday 12
noon-6pm. Open everyday from 12 noon-late. 58
Thistle Street, Edinburgh EH2 1EN – 0131 225 5109
– www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk
Fishers in Leith – Has been the last word in
Edinburgh’s finest casual dining for 21 years. The
original Fishers is nestled on the historic shore of
29
Listings
30
Leith. Set in a 17th century watchtower it has two
beautiful dining areas, the round room and bar and
the restaurant as well as outside dining. All offer
great atmosphere and, of course, fabulous Scottish
seafood – Set lunch & pre-theatre menu, 2 courses
£15, 3 courses £18. Open everyday from 12 noon-late.
1 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QW
– 0131 554 5666
– www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk
French
Bistro Provence – Patron Michael Fons and the
team bring the taste of Le Midi to Edinburgh. Taste
typical Provencal dishes and wines in this friendly
relaxed bistro. The menu changes seasonally and
there is a degustation menu every Saturday night.
Open Tues-Sun 12 noon-10pm.
88 Commercial Street, Leith – 0131 344 4295
– www.bistroprovence.co.uk
Brasserie Les Amis - At Brasserie Les Amis you
can enjoy the best of French and Scottish cuisine.
We source superb local produce and the finest
ingredients to provide delicious food and beverages,
whether you dine with us during the day and
evening or sample the delights of our delicatessen.
Also beautiful wines, craft beers and spirits.
83 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8BU
– 0131 228 7517 – www.brasserielesamis.co.uk
Café Marlayne (Thistle St) ­– Opened in
March 2000 this branch of Café Marlayne follows
in the footsteps of one of the many tiny back
street bistros found all over Paris. At no more than
35 square metres it can change from the buzzing
bistro at lunch time to a more romantic, intimate
restaurant at night. It has a classic feel with wooden
warm tones and twinkling lights. Lunch served 7
days a week: Noon-5.30pm; Dinner served 7 days
Mon-­Fri 6pm­-10pm, Sat noon­-10pm and Sun 6pm-­
10pm. 76 Thistle Street – 0131 226 2230
– www.cafemarlayne.com
Café Marlayne (Antigua St) –­Café Marlayne
at Antigua Street offers a quite different experience
than the original café in Thistle Street. Opened
in December 2010 the space is a far larger. At the
front is the coffee shop with sofas and armchairs
with the dining room at the back. Open all day
from breakfast at 8.00am to last orders at 10pm
encompassing breakfast, menu of the day, lunch,
pre-­theatre dinner and late dinner plus sandwiches,
coffee, cakes, beers and wines.­13 Antigua Street
– 0131 558 8244 – www.cafemarlayne.com
La Garrigue – Regional French Cuisine and Terroir
Wines from the Languedoc/Roussillon. A restaurant
where ‘Chef Jean Michel Gauffre brings warm
Languedoc to your plate’ (Peter Irvine, Scotland The
Best). Simple and stylish with the relaxed ambience
of a French bistro and a firm favourite with locals
and tourists alike. Winner of the Good food Guide
Readers’ Restaurant of the Year 2010. Also Gordon
Ramsay’s Best French Restaurant 2010. THE ONLY
French restaurant to hold 2 AA Rosettes in Scotland,
Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner. 31 Jeffrey Street
– 0131 557 3032 – www.lagarrigue.co.uk
La P’tite Folie – Informal, bustling bistro with
mixed clientèle. Favourites include moules frites,
steak frites, beef bourguignon, duck, etc. Extensive
wine list. 2 course lunch £11.95, noon-3pm. Dinner
a la carte 6-11pm. Closed Sundays. Large groups
catered for, set dinner available.
9 Randolph Place – 0131 225 8678
L’escargot blanc – First floor West End
restaurant. Sit beside a window and reminisce
of the bohemian Latin Quarter or Marais district
of Paris. You’ll experience traditional French and
classic dishes such as Garlicky Snails, Rabbit in Dijon
Mustard, Shetland Lamb Navarin or Cassoulet, les
Flottantes and Tarte Tatin. With its VisitScotland
‘Taste Our Best’ accreditation, it’s clear to see that
provenance and the use of Scottish produce is
paramount here. Open Mon-Thurs 12noon-2.30pm
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and 5.30pm-10pm. Fri & Sat 12noon-3pm and
5.30pm-10pm. Closed Sunday.
17 Queensferry St – 0131 226 1890
– www.lescargotblanc.co.uk/#welcome
L’escargot bleu – 'French twist using the best
of Scotland'. The Auld Alliance is alive and well!
Chef Patron Fred Berkmiller seeks out producers of
Scotland for 1st class quality meat, fresh water fish
and hand-picked fruits and vegetables whilst his
partner Betty will proudly serve you Herve Mons
exclusive selection of French cheese. Awarded an
AA Rosette, recommended by the Michelin Guide
and listed in the Best 5 Restaurants by Peter Irvine/
Scotland the Best. Open Mon-Thurs 12noon-2.30pm
and 5.30pm-10pm. Fri & Sat 12noon-3pm and
5.30pm-10.30pm. Closed Sunday (open 7 days during
August) – 56 Broughton Street – 0131 557 1600 –
www.lescargotbleu.co.uk/#welcome
Indian
The Mumbai Mansion – Modern Indian
cuisine in a relaxed restaurant in the heart of buzzy
Haymarket. Scottish seasonal produce mixes with
Indian flavour with delightful result from top
chefs some with Michelin backgrounds. Cooking
methods include the core Indian grilling styles of
Tandoor (intense charcoal fire based clay oven) and
Tawa (sizzling and sautéing on a hot plate). Business
lunches, à la carte, tasting menus and takeaways are
all offered. Extremely well priced given the quality
of the cuisine – 250 Morrison Street, Edinburgh,
EH3 8DT – 0131 229 7173
– [email protected]
Italian
Mia – Simple, cosy and welcoming. Serving
delicious food, fine wines and fresh Italian coffee.
Lunch menu 2 course £8.95. Lunch menu 3 course
£9.95. Dinner set menu 2 course £18.95. Dinner set
menu 3 course £21.95. A La Carte menu available
daily from 10am-late. – 96 Dalry Rd, EH11 2AX –
Also at 394 Morningside Road
– 0131 629 1750 – www.mia-restaurant.co.uk
Japanese
Harajuku Kitchen – Edinburgh’s most authentic
Japanese restaurant. Awarded one AA Rosette for
its outstanding Japanese cuisine and sushi, which is
always “prepared with care, understanding and skill,
using good quality ingredients.” The light, bright and
relaxed bistro specialises in small dishes, ideal for
sharing, such as classics like Beef Tataki and Chicken
Karaage to more unusual delicacies such as Salmon
Nanban, Gomadare salad and Takoyaki. They also
offer a range of noodle and Japanese curry dishes
and a wide variety of freshly made sushi, sashimi
and maki – guaranteed to have you coming back for
more. Mon-Fri 12 noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm; Sat & Sun
12 noon-11pm. Catering / private functions available
24/7. 10 Gillespie Place – Edinburgh
– 0131 281 05 26 – www.harajukukitchen.co.uk
@Harajukukitchen
Kurdish / Middle Eastern
Hanams – Authentic cuisine in the heart of
Edinburgh and voted one of Britain’s Top 5 Middle
Eastern Restaurants by the Telegraph. The menu
features falafel and baba ghanoush, charcoal
cooked shish kebabs and mouthwatering exotic ices
and desserts. There is an extensive Dry Bar and shish
balcony (blankets provided!). Open 7 Days.
3 Johnston Terrace, EH1 2PW – 0131 225 1329
– www.hamans.com
Pomegranate – Middle Eastern Street Food and
Shisha Bar. Cold and hot mezes, kebabs, a wide
selection of vegetarian dishes, main courses and
mouthwatering desserts. BYOB with no corkage
charge. Non-alcohol bar available plus Shisha pipes. 1
Antigua Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3NH – 0131 556 8337
– [email protected]
– www.pomegranatesrestaurant.com
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Mediterranean
Laila’s Mediterranean Bistro and
Takeaway – Middle Eastern and Mediterranean
favourites – fresh salads, paninis, wraps, and mezze
style light meals. Breakfast from 8am daily, specialty
coffees and teas and Mediterranean and Middle
Eastern cakes and pastries throughout the day.
Laila’s transforms into a warm and cosy bistro in
the evening with olive tree inspired decor, hanging
lanterns, comfy seating, delicious dinner menu,
BYOB and free corkage.
63 Cockburn Street, EH1 1BS – 0131 237 2448
– www.lailas-bistro.co.uk
– [email protected]
Mexican
Los Cardos – Fresh Mex Burritos, Quesadillas
and Tacos made-to-order with choice of grilled
marinated chicken, steak, haggis, and slow-cooked
pork. Vegetarian and vegan options also available.
Fresh made guacamole and choice of five salsas
ranging from Mild to Extra-Hot. Delivery to EH3,
EH5, EH6, EH7 and EH8 postcodes. 281 Leith Walk
– 0131 555 6619 – www.loscardos.co.uk
Modern European/Scandic
Seasons Restaurant & Bar – This restaurant
is all about an imaginative and creative take on
seasonal produce, sourced locally from Scotland
and Scandinavia. Not your traditional á la carte
restaurant and Seasons aims to expand your
culinary horizons. The team will produce something
special, fresh and seasonal for your delectation
which can be matched to wine/cocktail/beer.
Speakeasy downstairs. 36 Broughton Street, EH1
3SB, Edinburgh, [email protected],
0131 466 9851. Bar Restaurant open Wed-Sun 12
noon-1pm. Dinner served 5.30pm-9.30pm
Scottish
Eh15 Restaurant & Bar – With incredible
views of Edinburgh, Eh15 Restaurant & Bar serves
up premium Scottish and British dishes cooked
by Edinburgh College trainee chefs. Students use
fresh, seasonal produce to create great value menus
that rival the finest restaurants. Midweek lunch
& dinner from £7.50. Weekend lunch from £10.
Weekend dinner from £12. 0131 344 7344. eh15@
edinburghcollege.ac.uk. www.theclubedinburgh.
com Edinburgh College Milton Road Campus, 24
Milton Road East, Edinburgh, EH15 2PP.
a room in leith and teuchters landing,
a room in the west end and teuchters bar
– Two well-loved Scottish bistros attached to
two well loved bars. The emphasis is on quality,
fresh, locally sourced Scottish food and drink .
Spend the day with us meandering between bar
and restaurant! The west end, 26 William Street,
EH3 7NH
– 0131 226 1036. Leith, 1a Dock Place, EH6 6LU
– 0131 554 7427 – www.aroomin.co.uk
The Apprentice Restaurant – Based in
Granton, the Apprentice Restaurant has been
described as “The best-value Scottish restaurant
I’ve come across in my travels” by Richard Bath,
Scotsman food critic. Edinburgh College Students
create delicious Scottish and British menus.
Midweek lunch & dinner from £7.50. 0131 559 4030.
www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/trainingrestaurants
Edinburgh College Granton Campus, 350 West
Granton Road, Edinburgh, EH5 1QE.
Dine with Stuart Muir – Above the Traverse
Theatre, Dine with Stuart Muir is a new, relaxed
brasserie-style dining and drinking venue, featuring
Edinburgh’s first dedicated 30-seat champagne
lounge in the city centre. Executive chef Stuart Muir
– former executive chef of Forth Floor Restaurant
Harvey Nichols presents dining at its very best
with choice cuts of Scottish Borders beef straight
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from the grill, as well as contemporary twists on
the classics. Saltire Court, 10 (1st Floor) Cambridge
Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2ED, 0131 218 18 18,
[email protected] www.dineedinburgh.co.uk
Field – This restaurant as its name suggests
loves ‘field-fresh food’ and is proud to showcase
Scotland’s larder in a menu of tasty, innovative,
seasonal dishes. The wine-list is carefully
chosen and tempting. A cosy, unpretentious,
neighbourhood restaurant in the University / Old
Town area which also happens to be superb value
for money 1 course, £10.50, 2 courses £13.95 and 3
courses, £16.95 until 18:45pm, à la carte all day.
41 West Nicolson Street, EH8 9DB – 0131 667 7010
– www.fieldrestaurant.co.uk – Sittings: Tue-Sun
12 noon-2pm and 5.30pm-9pm.
The Forth Floor Restaurant, Bar &
Brasserie – The best in contemporary eating and
drinking & un-paralleled views from the Castle to
the Firth of Forth. Head Chef Robbie Meldrum uses
fresh seasonal Scottish produce to create food
of the finest quality by matching modern flavours
with classical techniques. Fresh, sustainable seafood
available from the Seafood Bar whilst the Brasserie
offers round the clock eating. Brasserie: Mon-Sat
10am-10pm, Sun 11am-5pm; Restaurant: lunch –
Mon-Sun 12 noon-3pm, dinner, Tues-Sat 6pm-10pm.
[email protected]
Book on line at www.harveynichols.com
– 30-34 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh,
EH2 2AD – 0131 524 8350
Stac Polly – Stac Polly is one of Edinburgh’s
original restaurants for authentic Scottish food
and atmosphere; now in its 23rd year. Stone walls
combine with flickering candles, crisp linen and
twinkling glasses to give a truly Scottish experience.
Expect a menu of exciting interpretations of
modern and traditional cuisine using locally
sourced produce. We have a fantastic selection
of Scottish beers and a fine array of single malt
whiskies at both Dublin Street and St Marys Street
Bistro. Private dining rooms at Dublin Street and St
Mary’s Street Bistro. Open 7 days.
New menus online – www.stacpolly.com
29-33 Dublin St – 0131 556 2231
38 St Mary’s St – 0131 557 5754
The Whiski Rooms – Multi award WHISKI
Rooms on the Mound, sister venue to Whiski on
the Royal Mile. With iconic views to Princes Street,
it’s an all day dining bar & restaurant serving fresh
Scottish food. Stocking an impressive range of
premium spirits, wines, cocktails & Scottish craft
beers and ciders and over 300 whiskies. Beside the
bar is a specialist whisky shop where you can buy
the bar’s range and more. Daily whisky tastings.
– Whiski Bar & Restaurant, 119 High Street,
Edinburgh, EH1 1SG, 0131 556 3095.
– Whiski Rooms Bar & Bistro, 4-7 North Bank
Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2LP – 0131 225 7224
– [email protected]
Whiski Rooms Shop – 0131 225 1532
– [email protected] – www.whiskishop.com
Spanish
Tapa – With it's white-washed, high vaulted walls
adorned with vintage Spanish movie posters and
a stunning floor to ceiling antique bull fighting
poster, Tapa is instantly evocative of the Iberian
Peninsula. Head Chef Paco Martin Romano works
with artisanal Spanish produce to create a menu
of inventive, distinctive tapas dishes. And, whilst
there is a firm focus on the Iberian Black Pig, you
can tell that serious consideration has also been
given to those with specific dietary requirements –
over a third of the menu is vegetarian – with many
of these dishes being designed to also become
options for vegans easily – and there are also
specific menus available for gluten and lactose free
diners! Tapa is an encompassing, genuine taste of
Spain in Leith! Open Everyday from 1pm. 19 Shore
Place, Edinburgh EH6 6SW – 0131 476 6776 – tapa@
tapaedinburgh.co.uk – www.tapaedinburgh.co.uk
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Steakhouse and Bar
– 0131 290 2500
Smoke Stack – Smokestack has been serving the
best in steaks, burgers and seafood to Edinburgh
locals since 1996. Located in buzzy Broughton Street
this casual bar/eatery prides itself on cooking
locally-sourced produce simply. Members of the
Scottish Beef Club you can choose from rump, rib
eye, fillet and sirloin all aged for 21 days and very
fairly priced. Also weekend, brunch, express and
kids menus (drop in for coffee or smoothies too).
Extensive wine list as well as cocktails, whisky, beers
and spirits. Open from 10am-late 7 days. Handy for
The Playhouse and Omni Cinema. 53-55 Broughton
St EH1 3RJ – 0131 556 6032 – [email protected].
uk – www.smokestack.org.uk/index2.htm
Boda Bar – A cosy, friendly bar with a subtle
Swedish twist. Regulars, Leithers, Students and
Tourists mix together are all welcome. When you
book the backroom for more than 15 people you
get a small, free buffet. Here you can try the lovely
Idun’s Elderflower cider, Aquavit and many odd
shots. Every Monday is live music and on regular
basis there are Bar Boot Sales. Check web page for
all events: www.bodabar.com Open Mon-Fri 2pm1am, Sat noon -1am and Sun 1pm- midnight.
229 Leith Walk – 0131 553 5900
Field Grill House – Modern Scottish restaurant
serving locally sourced, seasonal ingredients
and a unique Grill house experience. The finest,
fully traceable Scottish borders beef from Shaws
butcher all of whose steaks are aged on the bone
for a minimum of 35 days, whilst 60 day-aged
sirloin steaks are a speciality. Tue-Sat 12pm-2pm &
6pm-9.30pm and Sunday 12pm-8pm. Lunch £9.50,
£12.95 and £15.95 for one, two or three courses. 1-3
Raeburn Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1HU –
0131 332 9977 – www.filedgrillhouse.co.uk
Swedish
Akva – Is a bar/restaurant/café and venue! We
can host parties up to 550 people and we have lots
of events all through the week. Akva has one of
the biggest beer gardens in Edinburgh with a lovely
view as it is right beside the Union canal. When the
sun is shining in Edinburgh this is one of the best
spots in town. We are kid and dog friendly and
we have 2 kiddies' corners. Our menu is modern
Scandinavian and therefore has lots of influences
from all around the world. www.bodabar.com/
akva/. Opening times 10am-1pm Fri & Sat, 10am11pm Sun, Mon, Tue, 10am-12pm Wed & Thu.
129 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh EH3 9QG
Joseph Pearce – Joseph Pearce’s popularity
is testament to the warm and genuine welcome
it extends to a diverse clientele. During the day
a raised area to the back is a family-friendly
haven, stocked with all the toys, highchairs and
feeding paraphernalia that junior patrons and their
beleaguered parents could require. From 5pm a
more grown-up but equally laid-back atmosphere
pervades, making Pearce’s a favourite haunt of a
cool crowd seeking simple relaxation or perhaps
taking part in one of the regular jogging. Many will
be there to enjoy the Scandinavian-tinged menu of
gravadlax, pork meatballs with root vegetable mash
in a plum sauce or smoked haddock with crisply
roasted hasselback potatoes and poached egg, all
washed down with a great draught and bottled
drinks selection Open Sun-Thurs 11am-midnight, FriSat 11am -1am. 23 Elm Row – 0131 556 4140.
Hemma – A café/bar with great brunch, lunch,
buffet, smörgåsbord platters, dinners and last but
not least cakes. A family friendly haven daytime and
a party place at night with 12 well chosen draughts
on tap and an extensive cocktail list. It is a big place
where you can bring 130 of your friends and have a
great party on the mezzanine level. Every Friday is a
after work DJ starting from 6pm. Other events like
networking meetings, promotional events, Vintage
pop up shops and plenty others are occurring on a
frequent basis. Come and have a look! Open Sun-
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Thurs 11am-midnight Fri-Sat 11am -1am.
Tun Building, 75 Holyrood Road – 0131 629 3327.
Sofi’s – Sofi’s bar is the port in the storm, it is the
little squeeze in a hug, it is home from home. So
feel free to sink in and snuggle up, with a glass of
wine, or a pint of beer. On Friday and Saturdays
it is more like a party in the kitchen with many
delightfully tasty cocktail s on offer. Lots of events:
Sing Songwriters nights, Clothes swaps, Knitting
nights, Film nights and variety of cool parties. Check
webpage: www.bodabar.com
Open Mon-Fri 2pm-1am, Sat noon-1am Sun 1pm
-1am. 65 Henderson Street – 0131 555 7019.
Afternoon Teas
Travelling Teapot – The afternoon tea that
travels to you! Perfect for hen parties, Mad Hatter
tea parties, special occasions or even just a treat.
Loose-leaf tea from Anteaques, a mix of traditional
and modern sandwiches, homemade scones and
cakes. Taste old-fashioned favourites like custard
creams, bourbon biscuits and jam tarts. Restricted
and coeliac diets a speciality. Menus can be tailored
to you and start from just £15 per person. More info
www.travellingteapot.com or 07974 226 722.
Artisan Food Delivery
Victoria – Victoria’s philosophy is that everyone who
is nice is welcome to join the party. The drinks range
is chosen and proven by staff and regulars, including
beers from at least thirty-five different countries and
their own-brand Iduns swedish cider. Events include a
language café every Monday, live acoustic music every
so often and irregular speed-dating singles nights. Any
sense of gimmickry is nicely underplayed, though.
With a child-friendly ethos during the day, a warm
and moodily lit atmosphere at night, a well-stocked
bar and very friendly service, all you need for a great
local is right here. Check facebook for all events.
Open Mon-Fri 2pm-1am, Sat noon -1am and Sun 1pmmidnight. 265 Leith Walk – 0131 555 1638.
Edinburgh Artisan Food Ltd – We are here
to give you the ability to now shop at all your local
artisan producers and have it delivered to your
door. Start eating fresh and shopping local today!
www.edinburghartisanfood.co.uk
Steak
Bar Brig – Under the new management of Peter
and Billy Ross of The Old Chain Pier, the former
Bar Seinne at the foot of Leith Walk has been
transformed. It is now serving scrumptious street
eats made with fresh, locally sourced produce, craft
beers, wines and spirits. Fun cocktail list with some
classics. Friendly, relaxed, welcoming vibe.
96-98 Leith Walk – Open daily 12 noon-1pm, food
served until 11pm – 0131 281 1090. Book for parties.
www.barbrig.com
The Chop House – Urbane steak house, bar and
butchery with two locations. The focus is on the
very best British beef, aged for 90 days and cooked
over a custom designed, open-flame charcoal
grill. Chateaubriand, bone-in rib and Porterhouse
take centre stage. cocktails are also top notch
with seafood, starters, moreish sides and naughty
desserts also featuring. Open Mon-Fri 12 noon-late,
Sun & Sat 10am-late. East Market Street, EH8 8FS –
www.chophousesteak.co.uk and 102 Constitution St
– [email protected] – 0131 629 1919.
Bars and Bar Food
The Abbotsford – City’s finest ‘island bar’. Est.
1902 specialising in Scottish real ales (6) and malt
whiskies (100). Food served all day. Lunch & dinner in
the Restaurant ‘Above’.
3-5 Rose Street, EH2 2PR – 0131 225 5276
– www.theabbotsford.com
– [email protected]
The Gait Craft Beer Bar and Kitchen –
Serving a constantly changing range of 6 Scottish
real ales plus a further 7 craft keg beers plus craft
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bottled beers. Freshly prepared, locally sourced
menu is served 12 noon - 9pm. Music and Quiz
nights from Tuesday to Saturday plus special events
such as Food & Beer pairing and Meet the Brewer
evenings. Cellar bar for hire. Located in Edinburgh’s
historic High Street. 232 Canongate, High Street,
EH8 8DQ
– 0131 556 4481 – www.gait.bar
– [email protected]
admittedly, we do get a little excited! Our food
displays a subtle nod to our pals across the water
but it is served to you using nothing but the finest
seasonal Scottish produce. Wash it all down with
your choice from our wide array of beers, ales
and cocktails to round off what we hope will be a
truly unique experience, delivered with pride and
personality. 1 Rutland Street, EH1 2AE – 0131 229
3402 – www.thehuxley.co.uk
The Cumberland Bar – Spacious New Town
local, lots of rooms and beer garden. Eight real ales
on tap. Plus good wine list. Food all day. Sunday
Roasts (till 6.00pm).
1 Cumberland Street EH3 6RT – 0131 558 3134
– www.cumberlandbar.co.uk
– [email protected]
The Lioness of Leith – Bar/brasserie
situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant and
fashionable Leith area specialising in fine British
and Mediterranean food and drink. The Lioness
has rejuvenated Duke Street to make this end of
town a goto area synonymous with good times.
Eclectic and quirky decor, in a relaxed atmosphere,
combined with a fantastic selection of local and
international premium beverages and an exciting
and innovative choice of cocktails. Discount
cocktals Mon-Thurs (all £5.95), Mon Deals Beer
& Wings £10, Surf 'n' Turf Tuesdays. Breakfast weekends only. Acoustic Sunday evenings. We are
open for food Mon-Thu – Lunch 12 noon-2.30pm
and dinner 5pm-9pm; Fri & Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 1am9pm. The Lioness of Leith is on Facebook and is at
21-25 Duke Street – 0131 629 0580.
Element – Tucked away amongst the boutiques
of Rose Street, Element has long established itself
as the perfect place to eat & drink right in the heart
of the city. You always receive a genuinely friendly
welcome in the busy bar and you will find a calm
& cosy restaurant serving a tempting mix of dishes
prepared using the finest Scottish ingredients.
There’s a well-chosen wine list to complement the
menu and the cocktails are a must too!
110-114 Rose St EH2 3JF – 0131 225 3297
– www.elementedinburgh.co.uk
The Guildford Arms – Edinburgh’s finest Real
Ale Bar Est. 1898 (10) ale taps mainly Scottish, (13)
keg beers/ciders, good wine and whisky lists. Food
served all day in classic Victorian bar or boutique
‘Gallery’ restaurant above.
1-5 West Register Street – 0131 556 4312
– www.guildfordarms.com
– [email protected]
The Huxley – The home of simple pleasures
where we endeavour to create a homely retreat
from the bustle of our busy city. Bring your friends,
relax and lose yourself in some of the most
refreshingly eclectic surroundings that The West
End has to offer. When it comes to food and drink,
The Mad Hatter – This local, low key, friendly
bar is situated in the increasingly buzzy area of
Haymarket. A great menu includes a good range of
meat, fish and vegetarian burgers and sharing platters.
All food is made fresh and in-house. Craft beers
and Prosecco feature on the drinks list as well as a
range of wines, spirits and beers from independent
suppliers. 8 Torphichen Place
– 0131 228 6852 – EH3 8DU. Open 12 noon-late daily.
Monboddo – Chic and cosy, day and night. Eat:
Breakfasts, Coffee and Cake and Express Lunches,
to Afternoon Tea, Seafood Platters and bar classics.
Drink: Perfectly created cocktails, bottles of bubbly,
a fine selection of Gin. Enjoy: Castle views in
sophisticated surroundings. Open daily from 8am1am (Sundays until 12am).
Listings
– [email protected]
– 0131 221 5555
Nobles Café, Bar and Restaurant – This
classic Victorian bar & restaurant has an established
reputation as a classy watering hole, fine eatery
and continues to charm critics and customers alike.
Nobles has a warm, inviting and contemporary feel
whilst maintaining it’s traditional, bold wood and
stain glass heritage. The menu is locally sourced
and expertly prepared to an exceptionally high
standard. A famous weekend brunch, craft beers,
real ales, fantastic wine list, high speed wi-fi, fresh
Fairtrade coffee plus various organic loose leaf teas
complete the experience. Opening times 12pm12.45am Monday to Friday, 10am-12.45am Saturday
and Sunday.
44a Constitution Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RS
– 0131 629 7215 – www.noblesbarleith.co.uk ­
– www.facebook.com/noblesbarleith
The Old Chain Pier – Historic waterfront bar
serving fresh, homemade pub food made on the
premises throughout the day. A glass frontage
provides stunning views of the Firth of Forth. The
water almost laps your toes. Outside seating and on
the No. 16 bus route. Real ales, bottled beers, wines
and whiskies. Child and pooch friendly. 32 Trinity
Crescent, Edinburgh, EH5 3ED – 0131 552 4960
The Queens Arms – A hidden jewel, below the
cobbles of Frederick Street and steeped in Scottish
history. This New Town pub provides a home from
home for locals and tourists alike. With an amazing
selection of real ales, Scottish Whiskies and a twist
on some classic cocktails you’re guaranteed to
enjoy this cosy wee pub.
49 Frederick Street, EH2 1EP – 0131 225 1045
– www.queensarmsedinburgh.com
The Street – A popular mixed bar at the top of
the very funky Broughton Street. By day the glass
front makes it an ideal place to relax inside or out
with a coffee and people watch, whilst at night it
attracts a livelier crowd with a buzzing atmosphere.
Good pub food such as homemade burgers &
enchiladas until 9pm and snacks such as nachos,
homemade chilli & potato wedges until midnight
Sun-Thurs. Antipasti plates. Premium selection of
beers, wines & spirits and cocktails and Edinburgh
3 HOP on draft! Open 12pm-1am Mon-Thurs and
‘til 3am Friday & Saturday in Street Night-club!
12.30pm-1am Sun.
2b Picardy Place EH1 3JT – 0131 556 4272
– www.thestreetbaredinburgh.co.uk
The Voodoo Rooms – An award-winning bar,
restaurant and events venue in central Edinburgh,
best known for cutting-edge cocktails and its vast
range of rums and tequilas. Private rooms available.
Food is served 'til 10pm daily. Open Fri-Sun: Noon
to 1am, Mon-Thurs 4pm to 1am.
19A West Register St, EH22AA. Book online or call
www.thevoodoorooms.com – 0131 556 7060.
Cafés/Informal
Affogato – You can’t fail to notice the ice cream
carousel, filled with vibrant fruit sorbets and pastel
gelato. Primarily a gelateria, Affogato offers a few
savouries too plus waffles and feisty Illy coffee.
Basic waffle (£2.50); toppings and sauces, scoops of
gelato or sorbet. Breadwinner supplies baked goods,
tea is from Dammann Frères Premium Teas and
Valrhona chocolate is used in the hot chocolate.
Free wifi and pooch friendy. 36 Queensferry St.
– 0131 225 1444
Edinburgh Larder – A relaxed bright and
welcoming café with a delicious selection of
local, good quality food using organic/seasonal
ingredients whenever possible. Great coffee from
Williams and Johnson Coffee Co, teas from Eteaket,
lovely homebaking inc. superb cakes! Fully licensed
with tasty local craft beer and cider. Free WiFi and
child-friendly. Open from 8am-5pm Mon-Thurs and
9am-5pm Sat-Sun.
15 Blackfriars Street, EH1 1NB – 0131 556 6922
– www.edinburghlarder.co.uk
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Union of Genius Soup Café – You need
soup. We have soup – officially the best soup in
Scotland! Six different soups each day, and we
always have a wide choice of meat-based, veggie,
vegan and free-from options. We have Artisan
Roast coffee, Eteaket teas and hot chocolates
from the Coro and the Chocolate Tree. We run a
suspended soup and suspended coffee service, and
we also donate soup to the Care Van, which feeds
Edinburgh's rough sleepers every night of the year.
Cafe open 9am-4pm Mon-Fri; 12-4 Sat.
8 Forrest Road, EH1 2QN. – 0131 226 4436
– www.unionofgenius.com – come find our van,
too (under 'soup van').
Serrano Manchego – Serving breakfast every
day from 9am. 'El Grande' is a breakfast feast fit for
a king incorporating cured Jamón Serrano ‘Reserva’
served with crispy potatoes, salsa brava spiced with
De La Vera pepper (D.O La Vera), ali­oli sauce and
two fried eggs. We serve the boutique Nespresso
brand of coffee made with our luxury ‘Aguila’
coffee machine. Whether you enjoy your coffee
first thing in the morning, afternoon or after a meal,
our coffee will be served perfectly throughout
the day, every day. Here at Serrano Manchego
you may enjoy your usual favourites as well as the
Spanish ‘Cortado’, ‘Café con Leche’ and the sweet
but potent ‘Bombón’. We also serve Chocolate con
Churros which delights kids and adults alike. Other
breakfast options include the tradtitional Spanish
omelettes 'tortillas' and Tostas made wtih fresh
artisan bread. 297 Leith Walk – 0131 554 0955
– serranomanchego.co.uk and Facebook.
Craft Beer
Scottish Craft Beer Experience – Sample
Scotland's finest craft beers while discovering the
rich history of brewing in Edinburgh and Scotland.
Walking tours and private tastings. Perfect for
craft beer newbies or veterans. edinburgh@
scottishcraftbeerexperience.com – 0131 207 0153
Food Events
Eat Walk Edinburgh – A foodie walking tour,
presently in the top ten of activities in Edinburgh
on Tripadvisor with a five star rating. The morning
tour takes in the Canongate and visits a number of
shops and bars where you get the chance to talk to
the locals and taste some great Scottish produce.
The afternoon tour takes in the Old and New
Towns offering more of a full meal as we meander
between six venues tasting food, wines and whisky
as we go. Both tours last three to three and half
hours. Gift vouchers are available for the Foodie in
your life. Visit our website for further information
at www.eatwalkedinburgh.co.uk
Ice Cream
Affogato – gelato e caffé. Specialising in artisanal
gelato, made fresh daily on the premises. All
crafted using the finest ingredients with no artificial
flavourings or colours. Our gelato is vegetarian with
plenty of gluten-free and dairy free (vegan) options.
Large seating area. Sit in or takeaway. Handmade
cakes, Illy coffee, Valrhona chocolate and savoury
snacks. 36 Queensferry Street, Edinburgh. EH2
4QS (2 minute walk from Princes Street) – www.
affogatogelato.co.uk or www.facebook.com/
affogatoedinburgh
Soup Van
Union of Genius Street – Find Dumbo, our
Citroen H van on the NW corner of George Square,
next to Middle Meadow Walk. Dumbo carries four
different Union of Genius soups each day, our
legendary vegan chilli, and our daily hot special.
Come and say 'hi' to our fabulous soupmongers!
Dumbo trades 11.30am-2.30pm Monday-Friday
– www.unionofgenius.com
Takeaways
Los Cardos – Fresh Mex Burritos, Quesadillas
Listings
and Tacos made-to-order with choice of grilled
marinated chicken, steak, haggis, and slow-cooked
pork. Vegetarian and vegan options also available.
Fresh made guacamole and choice of five salsas
ranging from Mild to Extra-Hot. Delivery to EH3,
EH5, EH6, EH7 and EH8 postcodes.
281 Leith Walk – 0131 555 6619
– www.loscardos.co.uk
Wine Bars
Le Di-Vin – Is Edinburgh’s most sophisticated
Wine Bar beside La P’tite Folie restaurant on
Randolph Place. You can enjoy complementing
charcuterie with your favourite wine as most are
sold by the glass. Open Mon-Sat 12 noon ‘til late.
Closed Sundays. 9 Randolph Place, EH3 7TE
– 0131 538 1815 – www.ledivin.co.uk
Divino Enoteca – One of Edinburgh's finest – a
unique Italian Restaurant Wine Bar, and a hidden
gem in the heart of Edinburgh’s old town yet only
minutes from the bustle of the city. A wine cellar
married with Italian chic curated by the wellrespected sommelier Silvio. Visit for à la carte,
masterclasses, wine flights or jazz on a wednesday
evening. Open every day 3:30pm-12am. 5 Merchant
St, Edinburgh EH1 2QD – 0131 225 1770
– www.vittoriagroup.co.uk/divinoenoteca
L'escargot blanc bar à vin – The awardwinning offering at the French restaurant l’escargot
blanc is now accentuated by an elegant wine bar,
situated directly below the restaurant in the West
End of Edinburgh. Special attention has been paid
to the skilled carpentry that resonates throughout
the venue in the beautiful feature bar, characterful
tables and chairs, and wooden platters, which have
been hand-crafted from oak barrels. The wine bar
is a great place to relax, unwind with friends and
to indulge and to have a pre/after dinner drink.
The team works directly with traditional French/
Scottish producers to create a seasonal, artisan
offering, ensuring they’re behind each step of
its hand-reared production. With each mouthful
of charcuterie and cheese you’ll taste a burst of
heritage, which is guaranteed to suit each palate.
The vast offering is complemented by a wealth of
wine, which has been carefully sourced, tasted and
selected from many regions in France.
17 Queensferry St – 0131 226 1890
– www.lescargotblanc.co.uk/#welcome.
Wine Stores
Bacco Wine – Independent Italian wine and oil
specialists. Delivering only the best Italy can offer.
Free delivery on any 6 bottles case and special
discounts in the Edinburgh area. New Shop Open
Now at 136 Dundas Street
– www.bacco-wine.co.uk
Sideways Wine Store – Californian wine
specialist. Over 150 wines and beers available.
Free delivery in Edinburgh area. Email Gordon@
Calistoga.co.uk for current offers.
70 Rose St. Lane North, Edinburgh
EH2 3DX – 0131 225 1233 – www.Calistoga.co.uk
Vino Wines – Local, Independent and Different.
The best wines of the world, a huge range of craft
beers and specialist artisan Gin & Malts. Branches at
The Grange, Stockbridge, Morningside, Broughton
Street and now Wine Café, @vinowaverley
– www.vinowines.co.uk
Wine Tours
Languedoc Wine Tours – Wine, food and
sunshine in Le Midi. Jean-Michel Gauffre, patron for
many years of La Garrigue restaurant in Edinburgh
takes you on a tour of vineyards in his beloved
native Languedoc. A unique, all inclusive week long
holiday. You will visit winemakers from the great
Domaines to 'garage initiatives" and everything in
between – all curated by a local. For tour dates and
availability visit www.languedocwinetours.co.uk or
better still give J-M a call on 07760 761170 / email
[email protected]
39
A unique experience
for Festival dining!
The Atelier, a Modern European
restaurant using premium Scottish
ingredients and serving high quality
food and wine at affordable prices.
Close to EICC and Haymarket Station.
Reservations - 0131 6295040
[email protected]
theatelierrestaurant.co.uk
Our team at The Atelier is passionate about food
Festival opening hours are Sunday, Tuesday to Thursday 12-14:30 and 5:30-10pm and
Friday & Saturday 12-14:30 and 5:30-10:30. Closed Monday.