October 2013 - Bite Magazine

Transcript

Take Me I’m Free Your Independent, Local Guide to Eating and Drinking in Edinburgh National Calvados Week with Père Magloire 14th-20th October www.bite-magazine.com October 2013 Restaurant & Bar Reviews, Food, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Listings Written by locals! THE DOME 14 GEORGE STREET, EDINBURGH EH2 2PF TEL 0131 624 8624 FAX 0131 624 8649 EMAIL [email protected] www.thedomeedinburgh.com Incorporating: The Grill Room and The Club Room (Bars and Restaurants), The Georgian Suite, The Green Room, Conference Facilities and The Garden Café The Dome is Festive from Monday 28 October 2013 The Club Room – Open 7 days from 10 am until Late The Grill Room – Open 7 days from 11 am until Late The Georgian Tea-Room We are pleased to announce that the Tea-Room will be open from Monday 28 October 2013. Food and Drinks and Afternoon Tea will be available, every day, from 10 am. Escape from the hustle and bustle and relax in the warm and comfortable surroundings of The Georgian Tea-Room. For further information about the Festive Season at The Dome, please telephone 0131 624 8634, Monday – Friday between 9 am and 5 pm. Wine With a (Festive) View A Boutique Wine Tasting Event from Convivium Wine and Bite Magazine Come along and taste wines from local shops inc. Appellation Wines, Bacco Wines, Bon Vivant's Companion, Harvey Nichols Wine Shop, Henri's Delicatessens, Great Grog, Gulp who specialise in gifts for eating & drinking, L’Art Du Vin, Vino Wines and WoodWinters 2nd November at the Ghillie Dhu Auditorium West End, Edinburgh 2 Sessions 11am-2pm and 3pm-6pm Early Bird Tickets £15 Standard Tickets £18 Available now at www.bite-magazine.com Tickets include canapés This event is kindly sponsored by Père Magloire Words Chris Berry Phil Cooke Mark Earl Rachel Edwards Nikki Fletcher The Go-Between Lea Harris The Insider Sharon Wilson James Wrobel Subbing Leila Kean and Nikki Fletcher Front Cover Père Magloire In this issue 06 07 09 10 13 14 15 17 19 20 22 32 33 34 35 36 37 Salt ‘n’ Sauce Review Divino Enoteca Valrhona Chocolate Afternoon Tea Review The Forth Floor at Harvey Nichols Review Calistoga Beer Better By Design Review The Potting Shed Review Croma Wine Seasonal Pairings Edinburgh Goes Calvados Crazy! Wine With A (Festive) View Feature Cocktails Juniper at 20 Princes Street Off The Trolley Cronuts and V-nuts Healthy Eating With CNM Insider The Beating Heart of a Kitchen What’s in Season The Great Pink Bake-Off Listings Publisher/Editor Sharon Wilson I 01383 616126 I M 07780 763613 [email protected] I www.bite-magazine.com Design I Donna Earl I [email protected] © Bite Magazine 2013 – 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. 5 6 Salt ‘n’ Sauce a taste of what’s happening this month The Balmoral has launched its new signature whisky bar – SCOTCH. Guests will be able to sample an impressive collection of 400 whiskies in a variety of blends, malts and vintages dating back to 1940. A glass of whisky in SCOTCH ranges from £4 to £85 a dram and is served with a selection of bar snacks including smoked almonds, wild boar salami and dark Swiss chocolate, selected to complement the wide variety of whisky flavours on offer. SCOTCH is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 1am. Stac Polly’s New Brasserie, Wine and Gin Bar at 29-33 Dublin Street is offering a complimentary glass of Edinburgh Raspberry or Orange Gin Fizz to accompany the autumn lunch menu. Available Monday to Saturday between 12pm and 2pm. See website for menu. www.stacpolly.com Cocktails in the City returns to the stunning environs of the Mansfield Traquair this November showcasing Edinburgh’s best cocktail bars. A ‘Connoisseur Ticket’ includes a Belvedere Champagne Cocktail on arrival, a further three cocktails and entry to a private tutored tasting of your choice. A Review: Divino Enoteca Italian Wine Cellar 7 ugust festivities over, Autumn announced itself with the first rain and our automatic response was to scuttle to shelter. The most civilised place in Edinburgh to enjoy the sensation of hunkering down with a glass of vino has to be this stylish dark cave deep under George IV Bridge in Merchant St. They have a huge world list, from which you can explore a wide variety of wines by sampling tasting glasses kept in perfect condition in Enomatic machines. But to make life even easier they offer half a dozen ‘wine flights’, available in 25 or 50ml tasting sizes. We tried the ‘Italy & Abroad’ red wine grouping – 3 Italians first, starting with an organic Cerasuolo, a lighter red from Sicily. My favourite was a new discovery of 100% Gaglioppo from Casa Vinicola Librandi in Calabria. At the richer end of the spectrum of 5 tasting glasses, Spain & Chile contributed a Ribera del Duero Crianza and a 14.5% Carmenere Reserva. We definitely needed to pair these with food – so whereas we normally have Divino Enoteca’s very fine quality meat or cheese platters, this time we chose from the full menu. While the starters, for example the ‘surf & turf’ scallop and sausage on squid Ink polenta (£10) were perfectly cooked & beautifully presented, garnished with red amaranth, the large main courses were not up to expectations. Both chicken and the veal Milanese were agreeably tender – often not the case with breadcrumbed veal. Unfortunately the veal lacked seasoning and was devoid of any tasty sauce to make up for it – and was accompanied by a cabbage side mixed with chewy pancetta which just didn’t do it for either of us, especially as this was the most expensive dish at £20 – albeit a sizeable cut on the bone. The chicken fricassée had some delicious sauce & soft gnocchi, but was swamped with large garden peas (£14.95). Desserts helped to restore faith, my chocolate torte (£5.50) having a yummy apricot jam layer along with orange zest and dark chocolate flakes. Our feeling was that this lovely ‘library of wines’ should stick to what they do best, providing various platters of quality meat and cheese morsels and fine seafood bites to complement their wares, rather than trying to also cover the full meals best served upstairs in their busy Vittoria restaurant. (The Go-Between) Divino Enoteca – 5 Merchant St,  Edinburgh, EH1 2QD – 0131 225 1770 – www.vittoriagroup.co.uk Opening hours Bar open Mon-Thu 4pm-midnight, Fri 4pm-1am; Sat noon-1am, closed Sun; Food served Mon-Fri 4pm-11pm, Sat noon-11pm (last orders for a la carte), Midnight for anti-pasti, closed Sun. Specialists in wedding & celebration cakes Photo: Simone Hilliard. Making cakes and ice-cream in Leith since 2008 Call 0131 555 6065, email [email protected] web lacerise.biz, fb lacerise cerise tw laceriseleith 199 Great Junction Street, Leith Edinburgh EH6 5LQ Food at A s well as an extensive list of wines, with many sold by the glass, Le Di-Vin also serves cheese, charcuterie & fish platters, grilled snails, beef sandwich, croque Monsieur and more. Monthly wine tastings and private area also available. St Ann's Oratory 9 Randolph PLace, Edinburgh. 0131 5381815 • www.ledivin.co.uk 9 C Valrhona Chocolate Afternoon Tea elebrate Chocolate Week with a chocolate-themed Afternoon Tea at One Square. Chocolate Week takes place from 14th to 20th October and to celebrate One Square has created an indulgent menu in association with Valrhona, the luxury French chocolate-maker. A unique assortment of sandwiches all feature a chocolate twist such as the Scottish smoked salmon with orange, chilli & white chocolate mayonnaise on a Viennoise roll. Other highlights include a freshly baked scone featuring bitter Araguani chocolate and a selection of exclusive chocolate pastries such as Szechuan pepper and Caraibe chocolate fondant. One Square, which is a member of the prestigious Tea Guild, offers Afternoon Tea with a choice of enveloped or loose leaf fine teas and infusions. This Afternoon Tea is served, daily, in One Square between 2.30pm and 5.30pm from 1st October until 30th November and costs £22.00 per person, or £27.00 with a glass of Champagne. For the full menu please visit www.bite-magazine.com or www.OneSquareEdinburgh.co.uk One Square, – 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR – 0131 221 6422 –[email protected] 10 The Forth Floor at Harvey Nichols Tasting menu Review: I t had been two years since Mr Bite and me had been to the restaurant at Harvey Nichols. In the intervening period the restaurant has had a facelift. Nothing dramatic (the Edinburgh skyscape provides enough magic) but the addition of booths and some subtle finishing touches have created a convivial ambience conducive to fine dining. A Tasting Menu is a showcase for the chef and the ultimate pampering gourmet experience for the diner. The best ingredients are always at the forefront of Executive Chef Stuart Muir’s cooking. Thus the courses are described, scallop, rabbit, lobster tail, venison, chocolate, cheese. His mastery of flavour and technique however, turn this produce into original dishes that are sure to excite the palate. Virginal hand-dived scallops are paired with earthy handmade black pudding, straight from the kitchen which crumbles around the sweet shellfish; the addition of dried fennel along with onion and ginger relish and the pairing of a zippy but voluptuous South Australian Riesling impresses further. Harmony of flavour is paramount in Rabbit Wellington accompanied by three types of carrot; roast, ribboned and soused. This bunny in a boot is wrapped in a coat of golden pastry and mushroom duxelle resting on an olive soil. An old vine white burgundy, the wine of choice. Harvey Nichols source the very best West Coast seafood and lobster tail is cooked in vanilla butter with roast claw, spiced squash, Swiss chard and caramelized sweetbreads. An apple crisp accents the sweet lobster. We worry that the chard doesn’t quite work until it is eaten as a last bitter, palate cleansing bite. The A A Bodnhorst Chenin Blanc from Swartland South Africa had us both swooning. Our first taste of this year’s venison has been cooked sous vide. This method of slow cooking in a water bath develops the unique gamey flavour. Shallot tarte tatin is so intensely caramelized it could pass as dessert, the sweetbread sandwich complements it perfectly, plum yoghurt and juniper scented jus are yummy. An intense Malbec from Mendoza adds dark cherry and spice. Dessert is chocolate bubbles (hello!), hazelnut cream, raspberry gel, raspberry sorbet and toasted hazelnut. The ultimate ‘Aero’ dissolves in the mouth and the flavour combo is divine. Toasted sweet crunchy nut, cream and tart fruit. However, we think an extra textural element, would have added to the dish as the whole. A Rose Port, Qunito de Tedo, is amazing by itself but perhaps too boisterous paired with this dessert. I understand the desire to show it though. the very best Scottish produce treated with the utmost respect and skill. A unique gourmet experience combining the very best service and possibly the best view in town; you can’t do better than that. (S. Wilson) The cheese plate is a superb finale and includes six cheeses (the Clava brie is divine) music bread, real honeycomb (amazing with the Islay), chutney and sweet red grapes. Gonzalez Byass, Matusalem, 30 years old Oloroso is an absolute joy like Xmas pud in a glass. If you don’t have one in your cabinet I urge you to buy it now. – 30-34 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD – 0131 524 8350 – www.harveynichols.com/ restaurants/forth-floor-edinburgh The Tasting Menu at Harvey Nichols comes highly recommended. You are sure to taste Forth Floor Restaurant Harvey Nichols Opening hours Lunch Mon-Fri: 12 noon-3pm & Sat-Sun: 12 noon-3:30pm Dinner Tue-Sat: 6pm-10pm Bistro Provence Cuisine from Le Midi Lunch 2 Courses £12.50, 3 Courses £16 Dinner 2 Courses £21, 3 Courses £26 Wines from Provence, France and beyond with 14 by the glass inc. Champagne and Sparkling. 88 Commercial Street, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6LX www.bistroprovence.co.uk 0131 344 4295 11 Baking We’re the one-stop-shop for all your Christmas baking & cooking ingredients – 8 ‘til late, 7 days a week Delivery now FREE on orders of just £24 or over* Shop online at www.realfoods.co.uk 37 Broughton Street, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham Street, Edinburgh EH3 9JH Fresh‡local‡seasonal‡value *Free delivery excludes wholesale bulk items P Review: 13 Calistoga Raise a glass to Californian cuisine reconceptions aren’t good things.  Take American cuisine and wine.  It’s basically burgers, hotdogs and sickly-sweet pink Zinfandel, isn’t it?  A recent wine-tasting / dining experience at Calistoga – Edinburgh’s Californian-inspired restaurant – certainly exploded this myth. Our evening started in the restaurant’s tasting room, where sommelier Alastair Henderson took us through the “Congressional” sampling of two red and white wines (£32pp including a 3 course dinner).  Previously working in California’s viticulture industry, Henderson’s experience gives Calistoga exclusive access to some impressive wines, and he imparts real insight into how the Napa Valley’s geography and history influences these. Our mains were carnivorous.  JML’s slow cooked pork shoulder was smashingly tender, without falling apart, and the accompanying chorizo mash and rosemary jus provided a great flavour balance to the meat.  My chargrilled Buccleuch flat iron steak, with fries and a peppercorn sauce sounded uncomplicated.  However, this American shoulder cut of beef was one of the best steaks I have sampled, smokey black outside with a meltingly moist pink interior. My dessert of malted chocolate kulfi with honeycomb and caramelised banana both looked and tasted tremendous, but was ultimately a little too rich for me.  JML’s baked white chocolate cheesecake with strawberries was an impressive take on an American classic. The 2011 vintage wines sampled were:  Freemark Abbey Viognier – lightly scented and dry, but bursting with peach and vanilla flavours; Scott Family Estate Chardonnay – tastes of smokey pineapple and mango; Napa Cellars Pinot Noir – a cherry burst on the nose, luscious soft red berries in the mouth; and Gnarly Head Petite Sirah – scented with nuts and richly flavoured with coffee and raisins.   With superb – yet reasonably-priced – Californian wines (such as our Seaglass Pinot Noir – £17.50 bottle) and an imaginative, American-influenced menu, Calistoga really offers something different on the Edinburgh restaurant scene.  So don’t be content with “California dreaming”, when you could so easily be California dining and quaffing!   (C. Berry) The   Californian-inspired food (3 courses for £25pp) impressed too. I started with a flavoursome spicy chicken and sweet potato frittata, well complemented by a smokey BBQ sauce.  The enthusiasm with which JML consumed his Manchego, feta and mozzarella flatbread with arugula (that’s Californian for rocket) pesto indicated how tasty this was. Calistoga – 70 Rose Street Lane North, Edinburgh EH2 3DX – 0131 225 1233 – www.calistoga.co.uk Opening hours Mon-Sat 12 noon-2.30pm & 5pm-10pm Sunday 12.30pm-2.30pm & 5pm-10pm 14 I Beer: Better By Design t was the last weekend of August and I had ceded control of my window display to a local artists collective – Colony of Artists. This got me thinking about effective label design. What follows is a highly subjective list and my ill-conceived and uneducated conclusions on the matter. Be legal Amazing how often this trips people up, even the big guys. It's very simple, I want to know how strong my beer is and I want to know the size of the bottle.  Be honest If your beer is ‘hopped to the gates of hell’ then it better be aggressive and bitter. If your beer claims to be a one-off or limited edition, don't brew it again under a different name. Oak chips are not whisky casks. Kent is not India nor is it America. Don't rename your Scottish 80/- ‘Red Ale’ and please don’t dare call your beer a hefeweizen if you are not in Bavaria. Be original Granted, this is very, very tough but for God's sake don't just mimic a successful rival.  Putting your beer in plain, monochrome, utilitarian bottles doesn't make you the Kernel, ditto a loud, punchy, distressed type for Brewdog. Don't have a market If you make a label appeal too hipster, Nathan Barley media types then you'll alienate everyone else. If you want to impress the clued up, beer aficionado with a full breakdown of the brewing process, you will confuse the uninitiated. Never, ever, market a beer ‘for ladies’ – you will be justly mocked for being a patronising twat and your beer will die an ignominious death . Be clear Keep it simple. Just one or two sentences will suffice. Avoid hyperbole and florid prose. Don't offend Knob gags belong in the playground & women have boobs, get over it. Be eye-catching In many ways the easiest (most fun) element. There are so many talented graphic designers that the ugly beer bottle is almost an endangered species. Ignore all the above Just make good beer and decent bar staff and salespeople will do their job. (J. Wrobel) Take pride in your roots If your brewery is in Yorkshire and your beer is a bitter, don't call it a US style IPA. I want to know how strong my beer is and I want to know the size of the bottle F Review: 15 The Potting Shed Dig for victory rom Timberyard to Gardener’s Cottage to Potting Shed, where will it all end? As we don our WWII pinnies and clink jam jars of foraged cordial at the local compost focus group will we ever wonder what happened to the bonafide restaurant? I thought I would take my friend ‘The Dowager’ to The Potting Shed. It’s not her scene at all so would be a good test of whether all was ‘up to scratch’. Reclaimed up-cycled wood and garden artefacts give a cosy allotment hut feel and there is even an indoor herb garden nourished by hydroponic lights. It has been refurbished by the owners of the award-winning Sun Inn in Dalkeith. Overall, the food doesn’t yet meet these high standards but it is nonetheless a welcome addition to  Newington and ‘The Dowager’ commented that it would be a good destination for a pre-theatre scran. We quickly established that suppliers are John Gilmour for meat and Welch’s for fish. Relax – you are in good hands. We started by sharing a ‘wee pot of Morag’s chicken pâté, artisan bread and garden chutney (£5). The Dowager had issues with the bread but we both agreed that the pâté was excellent; silky smooth and very flavoursome. We would have welcomed a couple of oatcakes to help scrape every last bit. Main courses were beautifully presented. My sizzling king prawn kebab (£9.50) dripped garlic butter and came with a bowl of ‘real’ homemade chips – phwoar! Her nibs chose the Potting Shed chicken plate (£14) from the specials menu; Parma ham wrapped chicken breast stuffed with tomato pesto, rolled leg, fondant potato, crispy goats’ cheese stick and pesto dressing. She declared the chicken very moist and tasty but thought a little more dressing or veg was needed on the plate. Desserts were The Potting Shed mess for me (£5) which was superb; just the right combo of crunchy fresh meringue, sweet strawberries and thick luscious cream. It was served in the sweetest vintage dish and had a swirl of strawberry sauce. Across the table the dowager tucked into a Luca’s ice cream Sundae which scored top marks too. Beer is keg and bottled, the former served in 2/3rd schooners. You can pop in for coffee and cake (£2.50) in the afternoon, have lunch for a fiver or visit for Sunday Roast. The cocktail list tempts, it is small but looks good.  Despite my cynicism I have to admit that The Potting Shed has sprouted very promising shoots and deserves to flourish. It won me over.  (S. Wilson) The Potting Shed – 32 Potterrow, Edinburgh EH8 9BT – 0131 662 9788 – Open 7 days When your shirt is covered in great beers, fine wines and fresh local produce, you know you’ve had a fantastic Christmas party! a room in the west end/ teuchters: 0131 226 1036 a room in leith/ teuchters landing: 0131 554 7427 www.aroomin.co.uk FISHERS IN LEITH 1 Shore, Leith Edinburgh EH6 6QW FISHERS IN THE CITY 58 Thistle Street Edinburgh EH2 1EN www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk SHORE BAR & RESTAURANT 3 Shore, Leith Edinburgh EH6 6QW I Review: 17 Croma Pizza pit-stop am unsure as to what the restaurant at the Odeon was like or even if one existed before this transformation into Croma. I have zero interest in Hollywood blockbusters and no kids but offer me a pizza and I am there. First impressions are good. I like the colourful tiles, shiny surfaces and the abstract Miro-esque daub on the wall. All is clean and cheerful and welcoming. Our waitress too is Italian and clearly has warmth and hospitality coursing through her veins. She insists in bringing us doughballs. I am initially horrified (you are what you eat) but this feeling swiftly dissipates. These delicious wee morsels have the light airiness of gougères and are drenched in butter. Pizzas arrive in the form of a Funghi di Bosco (£7.75) for me – field, oyster and Paris brown mushrooms, mozzarella, tomato, garlic, fresh rosemary, drizzled with truffle oil. It’s great. You can taste the flavour of the mushrooms and the fresh rosemary in every bite whilst the oil lends that indefinable something. Simone is equally happy with her Parma (£7.75) – Italian prosciutto ham, olives, parmesan. These pizzas are also great value for money. We are done but still at the mercy of our lovely waitress who insists we split a Tiramisu. Again she is right. This brick-sized dessert belies its airy nature and it has just the right combination of thick luscious cream, sponge and cocoa. This Edinburgh branch of Croma is part of a national chain, I am not sure there is a huge difference between it and Pizza Express. The Observer however, wrote: “Airy, modern and slick. Croma serves great salads, pasta, pizza with some innovative twists. Chicken Caesar or Peking duck pizza anyone? Think: a better, brighter Pizza Express.” It is, as you would expect, very family friendly. I may go to the Filmhouse and Cameo to watch the flicks but I would make Croma a pizza pit stop for sure. (S. Wilson) Croma – Odeon Cinema, 118 Lothian Road, Edinburgh EH3 8BQ – 0131 228 2916 – www.cromapizza.co.uk NOW OPEN IN BRUNTSFIELD INAA AWARD FOR BEST BARBERS IN SCOTLAND 136 Bruntsfield Place EH10 4ER 0131 229 5566 www.boombarbers.co.uk CNM COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE 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 our free-to-attend Open Evenings on 1st October and 6th November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm – Napier University, Craiglockhart Campus, Off Glenlockhart Road, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ Reserve your place for either event by calling 01342 410 505 or email [email protected] www.naturopathy-uk.com T Wine: 19 Seasonal Pairings his year brought an abundance of berries and nuts in the hedgerows and whilst the season has now waned there are still lots available to add interest, depth and fun to seasonal dishes. Nutty squid Squid is abundant in the autumn and it is so much more versatile than the battered calamari found on most menus. Seasonal cooking alternatives include stuffing and braising whole squid (using sherry as a liquor) and warm salads with tender poached squid strips and floury potatoes soaking up the juices. Either way the addition of cobnuts adds a welcome nutty crunch. I’ve picked a simple white to complement either dish. This blend of lesserknown grapes has an oiliness to balance the squid’s texture and a lovely nuttiness to highlight the cobnuts. Les Cepages Oubliés, The Bon Vivant’s Companion, £7.95 Fruity game What could be more Scottish than venison with blackberry sauce? The combination of earthy venison and the richness from the blackberries make this a show-stopping dish, which is easier to create than it looks. There are loads of directions you can look in for wine matches depending on whether you want to draw out the savoury venison or the sweetness of the blackberries. I’ve opted for a delicious wine that looks as good as it tastes. This Spanish Garnacha is full bodied and gutsy, with enough tannin to hold its own against the venison and a sweet juiciness which will enhance the sauce. Honoro Vera Garnacha, Hattieswines.co.uk, £9.99 Pies and tarts It is easy to evoke that early autumn feel well into the cold weather by using frozen berries to rustle up a blackberry pie or tart. Nothing beats the delicate balance of rich pastry, tart fruit and sweet crème anglaise in a tart or the rustic homeliness of a steaming apple and blackberry pie. Such fine food needs celebrating and a demi-sec style champagne or English wine is a real treat. The demi-sec means that the wine is a bit sweeter and richer, perfect for dessert. I particularly like this English fizz as you get a hint of blackberry and hedgerows in the wine. Nyetimber demi-sec, various restaurants and shops around Edinburgh. Edinburgh wine events Next event – Thirsty Thursday | 31st October | Winter Warmers | Bon Vivant’s Companion See Conviviumwine.com for details 20 Edinburgh Goes Calvados Crazy! From 14th to 20th October, Edinburgh is going Calvados Crazy! As part of a national campaign bars, restaurants, wine merchants and supermarkets will all be offering a taste of the spirit of Normandy. Calvados is a brandy made solely from cider apples grown in Normandy. Everything begins in the orchard where the apples are picked, crushed and the juice is made into cider. Then it’s the turn of the distiller to take over and transform cider into Calvados. The cider is distilled (sometimes twice) in traditional pots or column stills and then aged in oak barrels. Interaction between the wood of the barrels and the air turns the spirit into a smooth, complex and delightful brandy, with the unique taste of apples that can be sipped on its own or made into long drinks, cocktails or used in cooking: Calvados is fantastic for gravy or sauces with pork, for making apple cake and desserts like the famous ‘Tarte Tatin’ and for accompanying soft Normandy cheese. National retailer Waitrose has special offers on Calvados this September and October and in Edinburgh some of our flagship restaurants are embracing the spirit of Calvados by offering special menus. 56 North – 2-8 West Crosscauseway, Edinburgh – 0131 662 8860 and The Voodoo Rooms, 19a West Register St, Edinburgh – 0131 556 7060, will be running Père Magloire Calvados cocktail specials all week. Bia Bistro – 19 Colinton Rd Edinburgh – 0131 452 8453 – Daily specials with a dram of Calvados 15th-19th October 2013 + Special Calvados dinner 7.30pm Wednesday 16th October 2013. Bond No.9 – 84 Commercial St, Edinburgh – 0131 555 5578 will be hosting a five course dinner, each course partnered with a Père Magloire Calvados cocktail, (The rest of the week they will offer a list of the Père Magloire cocktails (and food specials) on 17 October 2013. Restaurant at The Bonham – 35 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh – 0131 274 7444. Head chef Maciej Szymik and his team are offering a special Calvados dinner Friday 18th October 2013.  Iris – 47a Thistle Street, Edinburgh – 0131 220 2111 will be serving Calvados dishes on the menu throughout National Calvados Week. La Garrigue – 31 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh – 0131 557 3032. Special Calvados dinner on Monday 14th October 2013. Lucky Liquor Co – 39A Queen St, Edinburgh – 0131 226 3976 will host a Père Magloire Party to close the week’s Calvados activities. Père Magloire will host the bar and take over serving Père Magloire cocktails all night on 20 October 2013. 21 About Calvados & Pays d’Auge: Right in the heart of Normandy, where the combination of soil, sunshine, humidity and the sea air create perfect conditions for growing cider apples ‘better than anywhere else in Normandy’ is the district called Pays d’Auge. To qualify for the Appellation Contrôlée ‘Pays d’Auge’ (highest ranking in Calvados), the apples must be grown exclusively on this land and the producer must use a double-process copper still for double distillation, where the second heating is known as ‘la Bonne Chauffe’.  The Calvados is then aged in oak casks before being blended to produce a unique rich, smooth, complex apple tasting brandy. Calvados is always a blend, the age mentioned on the bottle being the youngest brandy of the assembly. Thus the “20 years old Calvados” can also contain 30 year old and even older brandies. Calvados “Fine” – “Three stars” – “Three apples” – “V.S.” (Very Special) Matures for at least two years in oak barrels. Calvados “Old” or “Reserve” Matures for at least three years in oak barrels. Calvados “V.O.” (Very Old) – “Old Reserve” – “V.S.O.P.” (Very Superior Old Pale) Matures for at least four years in oak barrels. Calvados “Extra” – “X.O.” – “Napoleon” – ”Hors d’age” – “Very Old Reserve” – “Very Old” – Matures for at least six years in oak barrels. Calvados “Millésimes” (Vintages) guarantee the year of harvest. They do not guarantee the duration of ageing, except when specified. www.nationalcalvadosweek.com & www.facebook.com/ nationalcalvadosweek.com 22 W Wine with a (Festive) View ine with a (Festive) View is the second boutique wine tasting featuring local Edinburgh wine merchants and is sponsored by Père Magloire Calvados.  Last time was great, this time we've got more wines (including the fizz line and our DLR fortified line), some different faces and some exciting extras.  Taste your way around The WineTubeMap and explore Edinburgh's thriving independent wine scene in the opulent surroundings of the Ghillie Dhu Auditorium in the West End of Edinburgh.   The WineTubeMap Explore a vast array of wines by visiting each wine merchant on their WineTubeMap Line and see for yourself the different styles and flavours – by trying similar wines together you'll get some great ideas for alternatives to your favourites and some surprising new stars. Get some inspiration for festive parties, presents and just topping up your wine rack! You'll meet some of Edinburgh's best local wine retailers who will not only be bringing some fabulous wines and treats but also their extensive knowledge and experience of wines, Vital Statistics Saturday 2nd November 2013 Two Sessions – 11am-2pm & 3pm-6pm Ghillie Dhu Auditorium Tickets – Early Bird £15; Standard £18 (includes canapés) beers and spirits and the services they offer – we believe that shopping at your local wine merchant offers a completely different experience and can't wait for you to meet them.  They include: Appellation Wines, Bacco Wines, The Bon Vivant’s Companion, Harvey Nichols Wine Shop, Henri's Delicatessens, Great Grog, Gulp who specialise in gifts for eating & drinking, L’Art Du Vin,  Vino Wines and WoodWinters Canapé Flights – Tickets include a ‘canape flight’ of several nibbles designed to complement themed lines on the WineTube Map and to give a brief introduction to wine and food matching. Buy a ticket, choose your line, taste your wine! Local independent wine merchants, businesses and delicatessens and over 80 wines to taste on the day. Plus cookery and cocktail demonstrations. Tickets can be purchased at www.bite-magazine.com How to use the WineTubeMap Use the WineTubeMap however it works best for you, as a reference guide or something to point you in a different direction. Here are our top tips for using it at the show. Get some inspiration – look for stations near your favourite tipple and ask stand holders here if they have one of those wines. Start your festive food planning – See how different lines work with different foods and occasions and where they might fit into the celebratory season. Pick a line that’s got a couple of wines on it that you know you like and find a wine from every station on it – a bit like an oyster card! Looking for a gift? If you know someone’s favourite find them a wine from a nearby station instead – they will enjoy something a bit different and you’ll be thanked for your expertise. Top tips for any tasting • Have a plan – decide what you want to taste; it could be your search for a new favourite, one of the WineTubeMap suggestions or lots of versions of one grape. • Do what they do on the TV! Sniff and swirl – the more you do the more flavour you’ll get from the wine. • Ask questions and say what you think about the wines – it will help the person behind the counter find you things you like. • Don’t worry if you don’t like something, not every wine is to everyone’s tastes. Just think about what it is that you don’t like. • Spit or tip – boring as it is! Even if it’s not every wine it will help you be able to taste for longer and avoid a headache tomorrow. • Drink water. It’s amazing how thirsty and dehydrated you’ll get. And remember to eat! • Tell us what you did and didn’t like – tweet us on the day, email us afterwards. Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com 23 24 25 Line Guides 26 aromatic Go aromatic for a versatile line of whites with something for any type of gathering. This line ranges from the lightest of light, Pinot Grigio, to the heady Gewürztraminer. It encompasses a section of wines that can range from sweet to dry but all have a more perfumed, exotic character. These wines are all great over the festive season, stick to the lighter end for parties, the middle section for posh canapés and light starters and the heavier end for cheeseboards and light desserts (also fab with a seasonal curry!). Bacco Wines white central This is a failsafe dinner party line, on the left side light, spritzy whites perfect for drinking on their own or with light starters and canapés, on the right, big creamy whites to complement the main event (including a turkey) combining wow factor with wow flavour. The wines range from very light and refreshing to full bodied and creamy all with an inherent fruitiness, whether it’s overtly citrus or very tropical. Travel from West to East as the day goes on and you’ll not go wrong! Great Grog and Harvey Nichols Wine Shop easy loop The Easy Loop Line does exactly what it says on the tin. It is relaxed and laid back, perfect for pleasing a crowd or when you just need a chilled glass of something fun. These wines are great for parties, carpet picnics and grazing leftovers and taste particularly good with cold meats and pickles. The bubbles on the line are just the ticket for big gatherings, inexpensive and easy drinking with a hint of softness. The glitter on the baubles! fizz What festive occasion doesn’t need a bit of bling? The fizz line takes you on a journey from frothy Moscato to the real deal top notch champagne. The range of bubbles on the line means there is one for every occasion and at prices to match. Try Moscato on its own or with a slice of panettone, pink fizz and prosecco are great at parties or with a curry, and the Champagne can do some serious food matching, particularly if your budget stretches to Vintage Champagne. Red fizz is an unusual one, but in Australia it’s what you drink with turkey on Christmas day… Vino Wines red central Like the White Central this is your go-to line for festive fun. It has most of your drinking occasions sorted, whether it’s a welldeserved quiet night in with a pizza, Christmas dinner or impressing your in-laws! The wines share the characteristics of red and black fruits, ranging from fresh strawberries to baked blackcurrants, with the Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com 27 influence of oak ageing, tannins and spiciness growing as you travel the line. Travel from west to east as the food gets more serious and you won’t go wrong. Appelation Wines rediscovery This is a line of classics, and they are classic for a good reason. Sophisticated, interesting and great with food these wines are made to be savoured and enjoyed. Their layers of subtlety are perfect to complement good cooking and they are impressive names to have on the table. They are not cheap though and require a bit of love, open them up early, decant them if you feel inclined and make sure they aren’t too warm or cold. The Rediscovery line is also a great destination for gifts, they are guaranteed to impress and look smart, shout out good taste and quality. WoodWinters revelation These wines are a bit different, they are inky dark, velvety and pack a punch, both in terms of flavour and body. They are full bodied and often quite boozy so not the best choice for parties where the only food is nibbles or refined dining, instead roll them out for smaller gatherings with a steaming hot buffet or with a night in with burgers or pizzas. They have a silkiness that helps them slide down very easily despite the full body, so watch out for the headache the next day. L’Art Du Vin DLR (Delicious, Luscious and Rich) The DLR is a new line for us, and just in time for winter and the festive season. The DLR encompasses everything from bone dry apertitifs to sweet stickies and ports. As you travel along the line you’ll be amazed by the diversity of flavours and textures. Sherries are excellent with food as well as on their own and the sweet wines and ports are great with dessert, puddings and surprisingly good with cheese. Be prepared to be surprised – it’s not just for grannies! The Bon Vivant’s Companion About the Exhibitors Appellation Wines Appellation Wines was set up to bring fine wine to as many people as possible. There was originally a strong emphasis on French wines and this still holds as wines are directly imported from around 50 wine producers from all corners of France. Now, wines from all across the globe are represented on our shelves and nearly all of these are unique to us in Scotland. Many are in fact unique to us in the UK as we shun brands in favour of small artisan producers. There's simply no need for everyone to sell the same mono-brands. Recently, craft beer has had a growing part to play and in January we were rated as top Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com 28 beer store in Scotland by reviewers at Ratebeer. Our second shop was recently opened at 63, Comely Bank Rd. The mission of continually expanding and refining our wine range continues. www.appellationwines.co.uk Bacco Wines Bacco Wines are a young and vibrant company dedicated to bringing the best Italian Wines and Oils to customers’ homes. Products are imported from privately owned, independent producers, who pay the upmost attention to the quality of their products and the environment. The owner, Valerio Lo Coco, was born in Tuscany, where some of the best wines in the world come from.  Growing up in his family restaurant and country house allowed him to be in contact with the nature and get to know the best producers in the area. Thanks to his direct knowledge of the region and the country, he is able to choose truly unique products, many of which from organic and biodynamic farms. Imported directly from Italy, Bacco Wines offers great value and the perfect compromise between quality and price, giving you a real experience of the true taste of Italy. www.bacco-wine.co.uk space on Thistle Street where the focus is on extraordinary wines, spirits, beers, champagnes, liqueurs and customer service. With an 800 bottle strong wine selection from all over the globe and boasting over 40 gins among a plethora of other spirits. The tasting rooms are used for a wide range of events including whisky tastings, wine and food matching, cocktail masterclasses and meet the winemaker dinners. They are an independent off-licence offering everything you might need to be the bon vivant of any party, including cocktail equipment, vintage books and bespoke bitters. They are passionate about good booze and hope to be able to hunt down any rare wines and products you are searching for. Great Grog An independent Wine Merchant in Edinburgh (Internet / Warehouse / Wholesale / Retail / courses established in the last century...1999 :) We peddle the thrifty... to the rare drinking experience. We flog grog that we, as practiced drinkers, like to glug, at the price we would like to glug it at. You can buy by the bottle in the shop (2 Dalkeith Road) or we can deliver any mixed case of 12 for free anywhere mainland UK. Edinburgh is next day delivery Mon-Sat. The Bon Vivant’s Companion Harvey Nichols Wine Shop The Bon Vivant’s Companion celebrated its 3rd birthday this summer. A small but perfectly formed off-licence and events With a diverse list containing hundreds of quality wines from across the world and a Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com team of exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful wine advisors on hand, the Forth Floor Wine Shop caters for both the novice and wine connoisseur alike. The extensive and innovative selection includes wines from some of the world’s most recognised winemakers and regions, together with expressions from boutique producers and lesser known wine producing countries. The critically acclaimed Own Label wine range has been created with quality, authenticity and integrity in mind; the selection spans the globe with each bottle proudly wearing the Harvey Nichols label. An impressive selection of spirits can also be found, including an eclectic variety of exclusive, innovative and cutting edge styles. www.harveynichols.com Henri Henri is Scotland’s premiere specialist French delicatessen with two shops in Edinburgh. We have weekly deliveries from the markets of Paris and from suppliers all over France. Stocking the widest range of artisanal French cheeses in Scotland we supply some of the country’s finest restaurants. Our shops are full of exclusive wines and delicacies from all over France including rare charcuterie from the Basque country, incredible olives and olive oil from the Languedoc and fish soups and bisques from Brittany. We also stock the best Parma Ham in Edinburgh! We specialise in organic, biodynamic and ‘natural’ wine – pure wines made with minimum intervention. We import direct, know the growers and in some cases their horses as well. Regular buying trips to France ensure that we always have something exciting in stock. 376 Morningside Road – 0131 447 8877 and 48 Raeburn Place – 0131 332 8963. Open 7 days. L'Art du Vin L'Art du Vin, are passionate about wine and constantly strive to offer an honest, personal and reliable service. They are small enough to care and big enough to cope. In 2011 and 2012, they were proudly recognised as one of the leading wine merchants in the country, and were shortlisted for the Scottish Wine Merchant Award at the International Wine Challenge Merchant of the Year! L'Art du Vin was conceived and nurtured out of a passion for food and wine and their overriding aim is to supply quality wines that are made with passion, integrity and uniqueness of origin whilst being true to environmental and ethical issues. For this reason they offer a wide range of biodynamic and organic wines alongside their very own range of micro fair trade wines which they have developed in South Africa, called Cannonberg.” www.aduv.co.uk Gulp! And Riedel Miriam first fell for RIEDEL 15+ years ago. She started Gulp! in late 2009 and became a RIEDEL stockist in late 2010. Working Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com 29 Love wine? ...so do we! Come and visit us at either of our shops to discover your next favourite wine! And if wine isn’t your thing we also stock an extensive range of very special whiskies, an intriguing selection of world beers (over 100), Riedel glassware, boutique Fairtrade coffee, hand-made chocolates and more! Bridge of Allan Shop 2 Henderson Street, FK9 4HT 0178 683 4894 Edinburgh Shop 91 Newington Road, EH9 1QW 0131 667 2760 with the team at RIEDEL UK, she has done two tasting events with the RIEDEL family in Edinburgh. She has various collaborations with independent wine merchants and she hosts/runs ‘What a difference the glass makes’ events for corporates,businesses,clubs and individuals. Miriam offers glasses for hire and has just launched a ‘Try before you Buy’ service. Why she loves RIEDEL: • Confidence-booster knowing that the glass can show the wine to its full potential, particularly when entertaining/hosting. • Heightened pleasure and new-found joy in the wine-drinking ritual; • Value for money: the bottle of wine has a price tag, why not drink it to the best it can be? Over time, the glass earns its keep! • Respect and acknowledgement for the winemaker. Vino Wines Vino Wines aim is to be local, independent and different. They make every effort to stock products that appeal to a broad spectrum of customers who have different tastes and budgets. They source wine from all over the UK as well as importing directly from vineyards from Europe and beyond. Created by three Edinburgh entrepreneurs the first two stores opened in June 2010 the third in September of that year and the fourth in June 2011. Their aim since day one has been to take the best parts from the old Wine Rack business and utilise their wealth of retail and hospitality experience to provide a buying environment where their customers feel comfortable, a shop layout that is easy to navigate and staff who are genuine in their appreciation of the products and are happy to discuss and help their customers. At Vino there is definitely NO snobbery! www.vinowines.co.uk WoodWinters Wines and Whiskies WoodWinters Wines and Whiskies are a leading Scottish independent founded in Bridge of Allan by Douglas and Cara Wood (neé Winters). Their philosophy is simple: they don’t do shelf-fillers and there’s not a bottle in their shops that they wouldn’t drink themselves. They take enormous pride in their hand-picked wine and spirits list, offering only the best wines, champagnes, artisan gins, whiskies (including their ownbottlings), craft beers, oils, vinegars, coffee, chocolate and glassware that money can buy. They have two shops: Bridge of Allan (Henderson St.) and Edinburgh (Newington Rd.). They run tasting events throughout the year, including their hugely popular Friday Tasting Club on the last Friday of each month between 5-7pm in both shops. They’re always expanding their range and say they have “the best prices in town”, so why not pop in for some chat and a browse...There's always something open to taste! www.woodwinters.com Tickets from www.bite-magazine.com Thanks to Père Magloire for sponsoring this event 31 32 I Juniper at 20 Princes Street Cocktails: Of all the gin joints... f you've ever had a drink at the bar of the Royal British Hotel on Princes Street, forget everything you think you remember. This gin joint has had a serious makeover, much more Humphrey Bogart, much less Peter Lorre. True, it's still recognisably a hotel cocktail bar and aside from the entrance and the area immediately around the bar it still feels a little “loungy”. However the back bar itself is a joy to behold – over 250 different bottles with two more shelves still to be added! And, like most cocktail bars that want to make a name for themselves in Edinburgh there is a fine selection of gins. The new owners have certainly given the bar staff great support in creating an interesting and varied range of spirits, vermouths and liqueurs. We started with two relatively safe drinks: D had her usual Dry Martini (£8.00), well made with Tanqueray 10 and a grapefruit twist as recommended by Ifan. I went for the Macgregor (£8.00), a variation of the Rob Roy made with Glenmorangie, Carpano Anitca, Maraschino and bitters. Again this was well made and ideal for fans of a Manhattan. However, where Juniper really does excel is with its own quirky, off the wall drinks. It's obvious a lot of thought and a good deal of skill has gone into creating these cocktails and whilst the immediate reaction on viewing the menu might be “Mmmm, I”m not sure” – try them, you will be more than pleasantly surprised. After talking to TJ, the creator of some of the more unusual drinks we decided to settle on a Full Scottish Breakfast (£8.00) and a Chai ‘Zerac (£9.00). The Full Scottish Breakfast contains two whiskies (Glenmorangie and Ardbeg), marmalade, lemon, bitters, egg white and a smoky bacon foam! A wonderful combination of smokiness, saltiness, sweetness and Scottishness, this drink has finally given D something she's been waiting for – a drink she can justify ordering at nine o'clock in the morning. The Chai ‘Zerac was a subtle version of the Sazerac that really benefitted from the gentle spiciness of chai and fresh ginger. It may be too subtle for lovers of a bold and strongly flavoured Sazerac but I couldn’t fault it. Definitely a drink I will be ordering again. With a cocktail menu that will be regularly updated with more of their original concoctions, a street food menu that includes oysters and great views out on to Princes St and the Castle, Juniper is certainly a bar that deserves frequent visits. (M. Earl) Juniper – 20 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2AN – 0131 556 4901 – www.juniperedinburgh.co.uk Opening hours 10am to 1am 7 days a week. S Off The Trolley: 33 Cronuts and V-nuts o it turns out I’m a bit behind the times. Until this month, I’d never heard of a cronut: the donut-croissant hybrid that first appeared in NYC in May and became an immediate sensation, with fans (or fanatics) queuing up at 6am to get one of the 300 produced each day. Readers, I apologise for coming late to the cronut party. But, while any prior discussion of the cronut would have led to an inevitable sadness at its unavailability (it has only a sixhour shelf life, so anything short of a Concord/Fed-Ex effort would make it impossible to try the real deal), I can now bring you good news. An Edinburgh interpretation is available. Called the V-nut, it's sold at The Vintage in Leith and, like its New York counterpart, is drawing in the crowds. A quick google warns me to be wary of imitations and corrupt cronut dealers. Copycat versions have popped up all over the world. Apparently a (pseudo) cronut burger (yes, burger) served with maple bacon jam (again, you read that correctly) caused a food poisoning outbreak in Toronto in August. Meanwhile in NYC, cronut profiteers will wait in line for hours to snatch up the maximum order of 6, deliver them for a hefty mark up, and as a final insult, keep one of the six for themselves. But Richard Mclelland at The Vintage seems honest enough, and so I pop in for a visit (and hopefully, a sample). The Vintage is not a patisserie. It’s better known for its award-winning craft beer and kitchen which has made its mark on Leith in the six months since it opened. Richard likes to look beyond London for menu inspiration, and it was in so doing that he stumbled across the cronut. With his team of chefs, he set about creating his own version. October's toffee-apple flavour takes three days to make, and sits on their dessert menu at £5. Richard very kindly shares one with me. Not just a croissant-donut cross (said in my best M&S voiceover voice), it's like a mille feuille gone to heaven, with an elegance that says gourmet, not Greggs. Get yourself to Leith and give one a try. As for me, eager to get ahead of the next trend, I’m actively researching other potential pudding combos. Tablet biscuits? Macaroon macarons? Watch this space...  (R. Edwards) www.thevintageleith.co.uk 34 Healthy Eating With CNM: Boost Your Immune System for a Wonderful Winter! B y boosting your immune system in advance, any bugs that may come your way this winter, will be thrown off more easily. Immune Suppressing Foods White sugar, caffeine, and yes you guessed it, alcohol, have the effect of suppressing the immune system. High fat food is another one to watch. An excess of high fat foods can clog up the lymphatic system, limiting the body’s ability to clear infection. Now’s the time to take a break from the above before the festive season gets under way, and help your body to increase its natural defences. Immune Boosting Foods Along with good quality rest, low stress, regular exercise and daylight, the best way to develop a strong and healthy immune system is to provide all the nutrients your body needs to support immune function. There’s no substitute for a good diet! Vegetables and fruits are the main source of vitamins and minerals in our diet, so ensure you’re eating a wholesome diet that has a predominance of these, eating as wide a variety as possible to get a range of nutrients. Organic is great! Whole grains (wholemeal bread and pasta, rye bread, brown rice, oats, millet) and pulses (beans and lentils) will also help by providing B vitamins and zinc. By Sam Folcarelli, Director of Studies at the College of Naturopathic Medicine (CNM) in Edinburgh. You can find out more about training with CNM for a career in Nutritional Therapy, by attending one of CNM’s free Open Evenings in Edinburgh. Next dates: Tuesday 1st October, or Wednesday 6th November 2013 from 6.30pm-8.30pm. For more details or to reserve your place call 01342 410 505, email [email protected] or visit www.naturopathy-uk.com 35 Insider: P The Beating Heart of a Kitchen ot washer, kitchen porter, dishwasher or, more fancifully, plongeur or bubble dancer. Whichever way you slice it, you are talking about the toughest most under appreciated job in the modern commercial kitchen. (I say modern, because, believe it or not, it used to be a better or at least an easier job.) In the dim and distant, when I was a baby chef, pot washers washed pots, dish washers washed...(you’ve guessed haven’t you?), and dirty crockery and cutlery went to a mysterious place called The Still Room – waiters even polished their own cutlery in a big metal drum filled with ball bearings. Nowadays, all of the above would be required of just one person. But that is merely to scrape the surface. That person could also be responsible for cold starters, all desserts, cutting chips, preparing all veg and ingredients for soups, salsas and salads, bearding and cleaning mussels, peeling potatoes, liquidising soups, storing all deliveries and keeping the kitchen uncluttered during service. Before finally making sure the kitchen is left spick and span at the end of each service. Phew! Fancy having a go? Then remember you will be the lowest paid worker on the wage bill. And good luck with trying to persuade some owners – or indeed your fellow members of staff (for shame) – that you are deserving, VERY DESERVING, of a share of the tips. So let’s remember some of those unsung heroes, who worked harder than Sisyphus, in a lighter vein. Like Keith, who insisted on sharpening all my knives for me, “There you go chef, that knife will be as sharp as a button now.” Or Torquil the clueless Oxford student, “Which one’s the mop and which one’s the brush?” And the future famous comedian on acid, who made a flotilla of paper boats and pushed them around in the dirty bubbles, steadfastly refusing to let an incandescent chef use the sink. “Relax man! It’s beautiful. It’s the Spanish Armada. Don’t spoil it.” And then sadness: the old Latvian, with the secret bottle of homemade potato vodka, who taught me how to make the ground beef and cabbage dish called golumpki and much, much more besides. He would suck from the bottle in the cleaning cupboard and the nightly tears would inevitably come. “Mister, mister, the things I saw in the war…they would make your heart die of grief.” Kitchen porters, kitchen porters all. I salute them. “There you go chef, that knife will be as sharp as a button now” 36 I What’s in Season: The Great Pink Bake Off! hope you don’t mind dear readers, I’ve no bones about promoting a couple of things – one is seasonal, the other isn’t. Back in August I, with other food bloggers, were invited to the launch of Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s, Great Pink Bake Off. We were inundated with cake and a wee masterclass on cupcake decorating. I’m no big fan of these beasties, but when the decorator was no other than Chef Mark Greenaway and the icing featured salted caramel on a sticky toffee cake base, I was in there – nose to the trough! On the way home with my pink goody bag, a tiny thread of an idea wove its tight tendrils around my sugar-loaded brain cells, what about a GPBO Afternoon Tea Pop Up? I threw the idea at Leila Kean from Innis & Gunn (aka leilappetit) and within hours, we’d drawn up a plan. There are various events being held on the 18th October so this charity pop up is being held on Sunday 20th at the Royal Scots Club from 2-5pm. Further details can be found on the Great Pink Bake Off – Afternoon Tea Pop Up Facebook page, bit of a mouthful, I know but eating cake is good for the soul. The blatant seasonal promotion is for Knowes Farm who are doing Pick Your Own Veg. So head out to East Linton and get mud on ya boots ‘n’ dirt under your nails. I did and nowt beats freshly dug veggies! (L.Harris) Info on what’s ready: www.knowesfarmshop.co.uk Lea writes http://OfftheEatenTrack.wordpress.com and is @BakersBunny on Twitter Neil Forbes’ Shortbread 225g soft unsalted butter 125g unrefined caster sugar 250g sifted plain flour 75g sifted cornflour Method • Cream butter and sugar until pale and creamy. • Add both flours and slowly mix to combine well. Add few drops of vanilla extract if you fancy, but Neil likes his the Scottish way, without. • Remove from bowl, roll into two sausages and refrigerate. • When firm, cut into ½ cm rounds and place on tray lined with non-stick parchment, leaving a space each between each round. • Bake in pre-heated oven 130C for about 45-60 minutes, until they are just starting to colour. They shouldn’t be brown. • Leave to cool slightly and then move to cooling wire. And there you have it, Neil Forbes’ shortbread. What else is in my basket? Cabbage, celeriac, beetroot, marrow, apples, sloes, partridge, grouse, winkles, oysters. Listings 37 Restaurants Bistros and Brasseries 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. 2 Restalrig Road Edinburgh, EH6 8BN – 0131 538 0664 – www.bijoubistro.co.uk Bread Street Brasserie – A classic Brasserie offering a seasonal Scottish menu cooked with flair and imagination. Everything is cooked on the premises and the menu includes classic dishes which utilise the best of Scottish seafood and beef alongside vegetarian and vegan options. All is served in a buzzy, professional, friendly setting. Lunch: 12pm-2pm, 7 days (Sunday 12.30pm2.30pm) , pre-theatre from 5pm-7pm (£12.95 for 3 courses), dinner: 5pm-10pm. 34 Bread Street , Edinburgh EH3 9AF – 0131 221 5558 – www.pointhoteledinburgh.co.uk The Edinburgh Larder Bistro – at the west end corner of Prince’s Street, with its light interior and conservatory, is the ideal place to enjoy seasonal Scottish food. The Edinburgh Larder team works closely with local farmers, fishmongers, fruit and vegetable suppliers to bring you the best of local Scottish produce. Sample Scottish Spirits & Beers, carefully selected wines from Woodwinters and Edinburgh-based Artisan Roast coffees and Eteaket teas. Open 12noon-2.30pm & 5.30pm10pm Mon-Sat (pre-theatre menu available 5.30pm-6.45pm). Sundays 12.30pm-3.00pm. Excellent value weekday dining from £8.95. 1a Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PH – 0131 225 4599, www.edinburghlarder.co.uk Elbow – Eat ... the freshest produce from cakes to steaks. Drink ... grape to grain and everything in-between. Enjoy ... the little things that count. . Bar open 11am-1am, 7 days.Lunch, dinner & snacks daily from 11am –10pm. Burger & a cocktail £10 every Wednesday all day! Monday Movies, Tuesday Pub Quiz, Friday's Live Music & D.J's. 133-135 East Claremont Street, Edinburgh – 0131 556 5662 – www.elbowedinburgh.co.uk 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 £13, 3 courses £16. Bar snack menu also available all day. Live folk and jazz musicians entertain customers in the bar on Tuesdays and Sundays. Open everyday from noon-late. 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 mid-afternoon and throughout the evening. Selection of premium Scottish and London gins and beautiful, modern Scottish décor. Open 7 Listings 38 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 British One Square – a vibrant bar and restaurant, offering a modern, uniquely British take on the classic grand café, serving an inventive range of dishes by award-winning Executive Chef, Malcolm Webster, from breakfast and afternoon tea to late-night dining, all with views of Edinburgh Castle. The bar features over 40 different varieties of premium gin. Open daily from 7am to midnight, food served until 11pm. 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR – 0131 221 6422 – www.OneSquareEdinburgh.co.uk offer the perfect venue for a casual lunch or initmate night out. A firm favourite with locals and visitors for fabulous Scottish seafood. Set lunch & pre-theatre menu, 2 courses £13, 3 courses £16, 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 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 atmsophere and, of course, fabulous Scottish seafood – Set lunch & pre-theatre menu, 2 courses £13, 3 courses £16. Open everyday from 12 noon late. 1 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QW – 0131 554 5666 –www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk Californian 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. Try us or book one of of unique Wine, Whisky or Beer Tastings Dinners. Private Dining. 70 Rose St. Lane North, Edinburgh EH2 3DX – 0131 225 1233 – www.calistoga.co.uk The Ship on The Shore – Seafood Restaurant and Bar. Sustainable Scottish seafood served with simplicity and style complemented by a carefully chosen and extensive wine and champagne list. Try the fruits de mer for two or the oysters, both with champagne. The Ship also serves lobster, smoked salmon, mussels, crab, monkfish, bass and much more. Seasonal specialities include game and meat dishes. Outside seating. Food served Mon-Sun noon10pm. 24-26 The Shore – 0131 555 0409. French 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 comtemporary surroundings 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 Listings 39 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. 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 £10.50, noon-3pm. Dinner a la carte 6-11pm. Closed Sundays. Large groups catered for, set dinner available. 9 Randolph Place – 0131 225 8678 61 Frederick Street – 0131 225 7983 L'Escargot Blanc – First floor West End restaurant. Sit beside a window and reminisce of the bohemian Latin Quarter or Marais district of Paris. Traditional French and classic dishes such as garlicky Snails, Rabbit in Dijon mustard, Shetland lamb Navarin or Cassoulet, iles flottantes and tarte tatin. Provenance is paramount here and expect to find imported goods from well reputed producers only. Open Mon-Thurs 12 noon-2.30pm and 5.30pm-10pm. Friday and Sat 12 noon-3pm and 5.30pm-10.30pm. Closed Sunday. 17 Queensferry St – 0131 226 1890 to make a reservation – www.lescargotbleu.co.uk L'Escargot Bleu – “French twist using the best of Scotland” The Auld Alliance is alive and well! Chef Patron Fred Berkmiller seeks out others that share his passion for excellence. Producers of Scotland for 1st class quality meat, fresh water fish, handpicked fruits and vegetables whilst his partner Betty will proudly serves you Hervé Mons exclusive selection of French cheese. Recommended by the Michelin Guide and listed in the best 5 restaurants by Peter Irvine/ Scotland the Best. Open Mon-Thurs 12 noon2.30pm and 5.30pm-10pm. Frid & Sat 12 noon-3pm and 5.30pm-10.30pm. Closed Sunday, (open 7 days during August) 56 Broughton Street – 0131 557 1600 to make a reservation – www.lescargotbleu.co.uk 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 Kurdish / Middle Eastern Hanams –Authentic cuisine in the heart of Edinburgh and 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 extensice Dry Bar and shish balcony(blankets provided!). Open 7 Days. 3 Johnston Terrace, EH1 2PW - 0131 225 1329 www.hanams.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 Listings 40 Scottish The Dome – Located in the city centre, The Dome is situated on the site of the Old Physician’s Hall designed and built in 1775 by James Craig, the celebrated planner of Edinburgh’s New Town. After major refurbishment, this listed building became The Dome which opened in 1996. The Dome houses 2 restaurants, namely The Grill Room & The Club Room. A La Carte Lunch & Dinner Menus are offered in both restaurants. The Dome favourites include The Dome Club Sandwich and The Dome Burger. Local Scottish produce is used wherever possible. The menus are created to include a flavour of Scotland and Europe. The Grill Room is open seven days from 12 noon until Late. The Club Room is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am until 5 pm: Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 am until Late. The Club Room is closed on Sundays. 14 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PF. Reservations – 0131 624 8624. www.thedomeedinburgh.com 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 2  Courses £11.95 / 3 Courses £14.50. 41 West Nicolson Street,  EH8 9DB - 0131 667 7010 - www.fieldrestaurant.co.uk -  Sittings: Tues-Sat 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. Executive Chef Stuart Muir 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 11am5pm; Restaurant: lunch – Mon-Fri 12 noon-3pm, Sat & Sun 12 noon-3.30pm, 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 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 No11 Hotel & Brasserie – Open from 10.00pm-22.00pm seven days a week, serving light lunches, luxury afternoon teas and fine dining dinners. Our food has an emphasis on quality ingredients from artisan suppliers. We are just five minutes from Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre. 11 Brunswick St, Edinburgh EH7 5JB – 01315576910 – www.11brunswickst.co.uk No. Ten Restaurant – Attached to the Royal College of Surgeons this restaurant is tucked away from the hubbub of the old town but also close to the Festival Theatre and other arts venues. There is a carvery from 12 noon-7pm serving marinated roasts, seasonal vegetables, starters and desserts and also a Scottish, seasonal à la carte menu 7pm-10pm – 0131 662 2080 – www.tenhillplace.com Stac Polly – Stac Polly is one of Edinburgh's original restaurants for authentic Scottish food Listings 41 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 Turquoise Thistle – Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere.  A La Carte Menu from 5pm; pretheatre menu from 5pm-7pm.  Bar area serving signature cocktails and a great selection of Scottish beer and lager in convivial surroundings. At Hotel Indigo, 59 York Pl, EH1 3JD - 0131 556 5577 - www.hotelindigoedinburgh.co.uk The Whiski Rooms – Glamorous new sister venue to the award winning WHISKI on the Royal Mile. With iconic views over the mound to Edinburgh, it's an all day dining bar & bistro/restaurant serving fresh Scottish food. Stocking an impressive range of premium spirits, wines and Scottish beers,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 Iggs and Barioja – Est. 1989 and recently featured in Channel 5’s Restaurant Inspector. Modern Spanish Cusine and Tapas using the finest ingredients imported directly from Spain alongside the best of local, seasonal Scottish produce. 2 AA Rosettes. An excellent wine list which has won many accolades including the ‘AA Most Notable Wine list Award’. Iggs, 15 Jeffrey Steet – 0131 557 8184 and Barioja, 19 Jeffrey St – 0131 557 3622 Tapa – With its white-washed, high-vaulted walls adorned with a stunning floor to ceiling antique bull fighting poster and live Flamenco guitarist on Friday & Saturday evenings, Tapa in Leith evokes memories of lazy summer holidays spent with family and friends. Sunday afternoons are a must as their Andalusian Head Chef prepares Paella in the restaurant while you eat! The perfect tonic if you have over indulged the previous evening! 19 Shore Place, Edinburgh EH6 6SW – 0131 476 6776 – [email protected] www.tapaedinburgh.co.uk Tex Mex Tex Mex – Donald Mavor, head chef and proprietor brings the heart of Mexico to your table, emphasising traditional Mexican food with an authentic menu. Try the flaming fajitas and the potent Margaritas ‘the best in town’. Good fun, tasty food and very affordable. 64 Thistle Street – 0131 260 9699 – www.texmex2.com Bars and Bar Food The Abbotsford – Guest ales served at a fine ‘island bar’. Est. 1902 specialising in beers from Scottish independent breweries. Lunch & dinner Listings 42 served in the bar or in the restaurant ‘Above’. 3-5 Rose Street – 0131 225 5276 – www.theabbotsford.com 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 MonFri 2pm-1am, Sat noon -1am and Sun 1pmmidnight. 229 Leith Walk 0131 553 5900 The Canons’ Gait – A Real Ale/Gastro pub in Edinburgh’s Old Town offering a selection of Ales from Scottish micro breweries. This bar has gained a reputation for it’s impressive bar food. The menu includes traditional dishes such as Crombies sausage and mash, fish ‘n’ chips, haggis etc, more ambitious daily specials and outstanding desserts. All offer superb value for money and always with the emphasis on home made and seasonal produce. There is also a large Cellar Bar available for free hire, book early to avoid disappointment! Food served: Mon-Sat noon-8pm. 232 Canongate, High Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8DQ – 0131 556 4481 – [email protected] – www.canonsgait.com The Cumberland Bar – 1-3 Cumberland Street - Spacious bar with lots of rooms and beer garden. Eight real ales on tap. Plus good wine list. Mixed clientele, pet-friendly. Good bar food available for breakfast, lunch & dinner. – 0131 558 3134 – www.cumberlandbar.co.uk Element – Tucked away just off Princes Street in amongst the boutiques of Rose Street you will find Element. The bar has long since established itself as the perfect place to eat, drink and relax right in the heart of the Edinburgh. Whether you fancy a quick drink after work, a bite to eat or a long lazy lunch, Element will deliver above and beyond. 110-114 Rose St EH2 3JF, – 0131 225 3297 – www.elementedinburgh.co.uk Jake’s Place – A rustic bar and kitchen serving the best in American and Scottish craft beer, malt whisky, bourbon and rye. A succulent fusion of American and Scottish street food. Opening hours: Mon-sat 12 noon-1am; Sun 12.30pm-1am – 9-13 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1DE – 0131 226 1446 – www.jakes-place.co.uk 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 11ammidnight, Fri-Sat 11am -1am. 23 Elm Row 0131 556 4140. The Guildford Arms – Edinburgh's finest Real Ale Bar - perfect to enjoy food, cask ales, malt whisky and imported beers.- Ten taps of (mostly Listings 43 Scottish) cask ales from Scottish micro-breweries. Regular beer festivals. food served all day. 1-5 West Register Street – 0131 556 4312 – www.guildfordarms.com The Huxley – The new home of social entertaining in Edinburgh. Located in the city's West End, The Huxley is the perfect place to relax, refuel and gather with friends. An informal, casual space has been created and the menu is über on-trend with its focus on burgers and hot dogs. The former are all made with chuck steak whilst ‘dogs’ include, ‘naked’, ‘chilli-cheese’, ‘kimchi’ and ‘Chicago’ versions. Small plates and boards of tempting tapas also feature and bottled and cask beers from around the world shape the drinks list. 1 Rutland Street, EH1 2AE – 0131 229 3402 – www.thehuxley.co.uk Nobles – With this café bar and venue, the Phoenix has risen from the flames. Since reopening this classic Victoriana bar has very quickly established a top reputation as a classy watering hole, fine eatery and live music hub and continues to charm critics and customers alike. Nobles has a warm, inviting and contemporary feel whist maintaining it's traditional, bold wood and stain glass heritage. The menu is locally sourced and expertly prepared to an exceptionally high standard. Music also plays a large part in the day to day life of Nobles so expect to see top drawer, original live music from Tuesday through to Sunday following food service. Real ales, a fantastic wine list, high speed wi-fi, fresh FairtradeTM coffee plus various organic loose leaf teas complete the experience. Opening times 12pm-1am Monday to Friday, 11am-1am Saturday & 10am-1am Sunday. Children & Dry well behaved dogs are welcome. 44a Constitution Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RS – 0131 629 7215 – www.noblesbarleith.co.uk – www.facebook.com/noblesbarleith The Old Chain Pier – Under the new management of Billy and Peter Ross, this Newhaven bar has a glass frontage with views over the firth of forth which allow one of the finest panoramic views in Edinburgh. The water almost laps your toes. Real ales, bottled beers, wines and whiskies. Fresh, homemade pub food made on the premises daily. Child and dog friendly, beer garden. 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 Roseleaf Bar Café – A cosy wee bar café in the heart ‘o’ Leith serving fresh juices, real ales, homemade ginger beer, cracking coffee, loose leaf teas & “Pot-Tails!”... cocktails in teapots! All served up in Grannies finest bone china. Wholesome brunchies, lunchies, din-dins & munchies served from 10 till 10 everyday with daily changing specials including Sunday roasts & home baked bread and cakes all made with luv! All locally sourced, free range & organic where possible cause it tastes really, really good! Free WIFI, wheelchair & child friendly. Open from 10am-1am everyday. For bookings call 0131 476 5268 or email [email protected] 23-24 Sandport Place, Leith – www.roseleaf.co.uk The Salisbury Arms – In the shadow of the majestic Arthur's Seat and opposite the Listings 44 Commonwealth pool. A beautifully refurbished country-style pub in the city, log fires, leather couches and a stunning restaurant area. Serving quality home cooked food with an interesting wine list and cask ales. 58 Dalkeith Rd, Edinburgh, EH16 5AD – 0131 667 4518 www.thesalisburyarmsedinburgh.co.uk The Sheep’s Heid – village pub & restaurant in Duddingston and Edinburgh’s oldest surviving watering hole. Pull up a chair near the roaring fire, dine on Scottish seasonal food or in the warmer months, kick back in the beer garden. Real ales on tap, wine list and a skittle alley available to hire for parties. 43-45 The Causeway, Edinburgh, EH15 3QA – 0131 661797. Open everyday. www.thesheepheidedinburgh.co.uk 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. The Street – A popular mixed bar at the top of the very funky Broughton St. By day the glass front makes it an ideal place to relax inside or out with a coffee & 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. Premium selection of beers, wines & spirits and cocktails and Rekordelig cider on draft! Open 12pm-1am Mon-Sat, 12.30pm-1am Sun. 2 Picardy Place, EH1 3JT – 0131 556 4272 – www.thestreetbaredinburgh.co.uk 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 wellstocked 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 1pm- midnight. 265 Leith Walk 0131 555 1638. The White Horse – The bar is an institution on the Royal Mile where it has been serving thirsty locals and tourists alike in several different guises since 1742. Come along for a glass of wine, pint, meal or simply a coffee and a slice of cake. Great bar menu available. The White Horse is also a free fringe venue in the private stable room to the rear of the building throughout the festival. Opening times: Mon-Thur 12 noon-11pm, Fri & Sat 12 noon12 pm, Sun 12 noon-11pm. 266 Canongate – 0131 557 3512 Cafés/Informal 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 Artisan Roast, teas from Eteaket, lovely homebaking inc. superb cakes! Fully licensed with Listings 45 tasty local craft beer and cider. Free WiFi, wheelchair and child-friendly. Open from 8am5pm Mon-Thurs and 9am-5pm Sat-Sun. 15 Blackfriars Street, EH1 1NB – 0131 556 6922 www.edinburghlarder.co.uk naturally gluten-free. We have Artisan Roast coffee and a gorgeous range of hot chocolates from Coco and The Chocolate Tree. Open 9am4pm Monday-Friday. 8 Forrest Road, EH1 2QN, – 0131 226 4436 – www.unionofgenius.com Hemma – A newly opened 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-Thurs 11am-midnight Fri-Sat 11am -1am. Tun Building, 75 Holyrood Road. – 0131 629 3327. Craft Pattisserie and Café I Heart Café – Licensed café and coffee shop. Great food, drinks, sofas and tunes at the top of Leith Walk! Breakfast, all day menu and weekend brunch. Great coffee & Eteaket teas, pastries, cakes & sweet treats, sharing platters & deli nibbles, lovely vino & cool beers. Open 7 days Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 10am-5pm. 26-27 Haddington Place, EH7 4AF – 0131 556 1672. Union of Genius Soup Café – You need soup – and we have soup; the best soup in Scotland! Our soups won the Good Soup Guide's Best Soup in Scotland award 2013. Each day we serve six different soups, flavour-matched with four artisan breads. We always have veggie and vegan options, and most of our soups are La Cerise – is a fresh and innovative patisserie cake and coffee shop that will leave you hooked on Café Culture. Individual cakes, celebration cakes, pastries, award-winning home-made icecream and more – all made fresh on the premises. All products are hand-crafted fine foods made from the best quality ingredients. Many are gluten-free and they use free-range eggs. From homemade soups that will transform your lunchtime into a five-a-day brain-booster, to cakes and desserts that evoke sheer ecstasy, and delicious savoury items. 199 Great Junction Street (corner Bangor Road), Leith, EH6 5LQ – 0131 555 6065. LRT buses: 1, 7, 10, 14, 21, 34, 36. Open MonFri 8am-6pm. www.lacerise.biz Farm Shops Hopetoun Farm Shop – offers some of Scotland's finest foods including fresh local produce from the surrounding Hopetoun Estate plus a wide range of produce from award winning Scottish suppliers. Open 7 days a week the Farm Shop butchery provides a range of fresh beef, lamb, game and poultry whilst the delicatessen offers a mouth watering selection of Scottish cheeses, pies, cakes and cold meats. Hopetoun Farm Shop, Newton, Broxburn. EH52 6QZ – 01506 830 716 – www.hopetoun.co.uk Listings 46 Food Events Eat Walk Edinburgh – As recommended by the BBC Good Food Magazine, this is a fabulous way to learn about Edinburgh whilst sampling its culinary delights at top venues. Tours start in the Old town at 2pm and finish in the New Town at 5.30pm. Along the way you will visit 6 premises and enjoy one of their signature dishes plus a couple of wine tastings and a malt whisky. For more info and to book, please visit www.eatwalkedinburgh.co.uk Foodie Gift Shop Cranachan & Crowdie – Purveyors of Fine Scottish Food, Drink & Gifts, this Royal Mile gem is Edinburgh’s leading speciality food & gift shop, selling only Scottish products. Choose a unique present or create a tantalizing Scottish food hamper filled with award winning delights. Their range includes scrumptious Scottish must-haves such as smoked venison and salmon, cheese, chutney, shortbread, tablet, chocolate, haggis, black pudding, tea, coffee, beer and spirits. Beyond the array of edibles are quality Scottish gifts including Harris Tweed, earthenware, handblown glass and an exclusive range of ex-whisky barrel pieces. Open daily 11-6. 263 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BQ – 0131 556 7194 – www.CranachanAndCrowdie.com made using Scottish milk and Scottish cream. No fat substitutes or flavourings. All available as cones or in tubs to eat-in or take-away and a huge range of flavours which include the exotic and well as classic favourites. 199 Great Junction Street (corner Bangor Road), Leith, EH6 5LQ0131 555 6065- www.lacerise.biz LRT buses: 1, 7, 10, 14, 21, 34, 36. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm. 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 Local Cooking Lessons Eat-In Edinburgh – Love food and wish you could cook it? Whether it's cooking better for your family, impressing your friends or gaining some more confidence in the kitchen Eat-In Edinburgh provides affordable cooking lessons for everyone. All you need is a kitchen and we'll bring the rest. Eat-In Edinburgh also offers kitchen assistance and home-cooked meals to those who are unable to cook for themselves. Email [email protected] – or call 07702 011451 or go to www.eat-inedinburgh.co.uk Ice Cream Takeaways La Cerise – Award winning artisan ice cream. 5 Bronze awards at the Royal Highland Show 2012. All ice-creams are gluten-free and are home- Fish ‘n’ Chips Pierinos – Situated in the heart of the Shore area of Leith, Pierino’s is Listings 47 renowned for it’s traditional Fish & Chips, Takeaway Favourites and authentic Italian Pizzas and Pasta, which is achieved by paying special attention to every fine detail and only using the very finest ingredients. Pierino’s have been offering traditional Fish & Chips since 1983. You’ll also find an array of other favourites, such as homemade Pizzas, Burgers, Kebabs, Pasta and great value Meal Deals. If you are looking for the best Fast Food in Edinburgh, then order online for delivery or collection with our easy to use website. Call 0131 477 7727 or order online at pierinos.readyforfood.com. 11 Bernard Street, Leith, EH6 6PW Closed Sundays. 9 Randolph Place, EH3 7TE – 0131 538 1815 – www.ledivin.co.uk 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 Henderson Wines – Independent wine merchant. Wine ranges from £5 a bottle on offer wines to £100 plus on fine clarets and champagne. A good range of collectable Malt Whiskies up to £300 a bottle. 100+ beers available. Collectable spirits also. Home delivery. 109 Comiston Rd – 0131 447 8580 and new shop now open at 23 Roseburn Terrace – 0131 337 4444. Wine Bars Sideways Wine Store – Californian wine specialist. Over 150 wines and beers available. Free delivery in Edinburgh area. Buy direct from www.Bottleshock.co.uk. 70 Rose St. Lane North, Edinburgh EH2 3DX – 0131 225 1233 – www.Calistoga.co.uk 10 Wine Bar – A vibrant and contemporary space, offering an extensive list of wines supplied by Corney & Barrow, A large selection of beers and spirits are also available along with tapas, light snacks and sharing plates. 10 Hill Place, EH8 9DS – 0131 662 2080 – www.tenhillplace.com Open 12 noon-10pm. 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. Wines Online 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. www.baccowine.co.uk Wine Stores Vino Wines – Local, Independent and Different. The best wines of the world, the UK, world craft beers and specialist artisan spirits. Branches at Grange Loan, Stockbridge, Morningside and Broughton St – www.vinowines.co.uk – @vinowineshops [email protected]