Edinburgh, a city steeped in history and culinary diversity, beckons food enthusiasts to explore its unique gastronomic landscape. I embarked on a culinary journey through the picturesque streets of this Scottish capital, the hidden gems that make Edinburgh a food lover’s paradise.
The Witchery by the Castle: A Culinary Enchantment
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile conceals a dining gem that transcends time—The Witchery by the Castle. As the ancient wooden door swung open, I stepped into a world where opulence met history, and gastronomy became an art form.
Signature Dish: Roast Orkney scallops with chorizo
The dining experience commenced with the Roast Orkney scallops with chorizo, a dish that mirrored the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence. The scallops, plump and succulent, danced on my palate, perfectly harmonized with the smoky nuances of chorizo. Priced at £16.50, the dish was a divine indulgence, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Ambiance and Location
Situated at the heart of the Royal Mile, The Witchery’s historic setting is an integral part of its allure. The dimly lit, atmospheric ambiance, adorned with antique tapestries and oak paneling, transports diners to a bygone era. The restaurant’s intimate spaces, including the Secret Garden, offer enchanting views of Edinburgh Castle.
My table, nestled in a cozy nook, allowed me to soak in the restaurant’s magical ambiance. The attentive staff, clad in period costumes, added a touch of theatricality to the evening, ensuring every aspect of the dining experience felt curated and special.
Pro Tip: Reserve a table in advance and request a window seat for a captivating view of the Edinburgh Castle.
Ondine: Seafood Symphony in the Heart of Edinburgh
On the historic George IV Bridge, Ondine stands as a testament to Edinburgh’s seafood prowess. The restaurant’s commitment to freshness is not just a promise—it’s a symphony of flavors that unfolds with every dish.
Signature Dish: Seafood Platter
The Seafood Platter, priced at £35 per person, is a captivating array of Scotland’s finest coastal treasures. Oysters, langoustines, crab, and more adorned the platter, a visual and gastronomic feast. Each bite told a story of the sea, leaving a lingering sweetness on my palate.
Ambiance and Location
Ondine’s location, overlooking the historic Old Town, adds a layer of charm to its modern and stylish interior. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary mastery behind each dish, creating an interactive and engaging atmosphere.
My visit during the early evening not only allowed me to enjoy the pre-theatre menu but also provided a front-row seat to Edinburgh’s skyline transforming with the hues of sunset. The attentive staff’s recommendations heightened the overall experience.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the pre-theatre menu and indulge in the Seafood Platter for an exceptional dining experience.
The Dogs: A Homely Haven for Culinary Delights
Hidden on Hanover Street, The Dogs offers a refreshing departure from traditional fine dining. Its unpretentious charm and commitment to locally sourced ingredients make it a unique culinary haven.
Signature Dish: Slow Cooked Pork Belly with haggis bonbon
The Slow Cooked Pork Belly with haggis bonbon, priced at £14, was a revelation of textures and flavors. The succulent pork belly, coupled with the robust earthiness of haggis, created a dish that celebrated Scottish heritage with a contemporary twist.
Ambiance and Location
The Dogs’ ambiance, marked by rustic decor and a dog-friendly policy, sets a relaxed tone. The juxtaposition of traditional and modern elements creates an inviting space that feels like a home away from home.
My evening at The Dogs was marked by warmth and authenticity. The friendly staff, combined with the comforting aroma of well-prepared dishes, made it a memorable experience, akin to sharing a meal with friends.
Pro Tip: Explore the ever-changing specials board for unique culinary surprises and embrace the homely, communal atmosphere.
The Outsider: Panoramic Views and Culinary Excellence
Perched on George IV Bridge, The Outsider offers a fusion of Scottish and European cuisine against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s iconic Old Town. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and inventive dishes sets it apart.
Signature Dish: Grilled Shetland Salmon
The Grilled Shetland Salmon, priced at £19, was a celebration of Scotland’s seafood heritage. The flaky, perfectly cooked salmon, adorned with a zesty lemon and caper dressing, showcased the marriage of simplicity and sophistication.
Ambiance and Location
The Outsider’s modern, airy interior provides a refreshing contrast to the historic surroundings. Panoramic views of the Old Town, visible from every table, create a captivating setting for a memorable dining experience.
Securing a window table allowed me to revel in the breathtaking views as I enjoyed a leisurely meal. The staff’s knowledge of the menu and their passion for the culinary arts added an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening.
Pro Tip: For an unparalleled experience, reserve a table by the window and savor the Grilled Shetland Salmon.
Culinary Opulence: The Kitchin’s Gastronomic Symphony
The Kitchin’s unassuming facade belies the regal experience within. As I entered, the warm, amber glow and contemporary decor whispered promises of a sophisticated culinary adventure. Seated comfortably, the anticipation built, heightened by the attentive yet unintrusive staff.
The ambiance exudes an air of refined simplicity. Unobtrusive jazz notes accompanied the soft murmur of fellow patrons. The open kitchen, a theater of culinary mastery, added a dynamic layer to the dining experience. Each dish emerged as a carefully crafted work of art, a testament to Chef Kitchin’s dedication to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Symphony of Starters: Seared Orkney Scallops
Opting for the Seared Orkney Scallops (£18) as a starter was a decision that set the tone for the evening. The dish arrived as a visual masterpiece, the scallops delicately seared to a golden hue. The first bite was a revelation—tender, succulent, with a subtle smokiness that danced on the palate. Accompanied by cauliflower puree and pancetta, the dish was a harmonious interplay of textures and flavors.
Ode to Scottish Heritage: Haggis Wellington
The Haggis Wellington (£32) took the spotlight as the main course—a contemporary ode to Scotland’s culinary heritage. Encased in a flaky pastry, the haggis revealed itself in layers, imparting a rich, earthy aroma. Each forkful encapsulated centuries of tradition, elevated by modern culinary finesse. The dish seamlessly merged the robustness of haggis with the elegance of a Wellington, creating a culinary masterpiece.
Grand Finale: Chocolate and Passion Fruit Delice
No symphony is complete without a grand finale, and The Kitchin’s Chocolate and Passion Fruit Delice (£12) assumed this role with grace. A dessert that transcended the boundaries of sweetness, it was a sublime dance of bitter cocoa and the tropical zing of passion fruit. The delicately crafted chocolate shards added a textural element, creating a crescendo of flavors that lingered, inviting the senses to savor the final act.
Wine Pairing: A Harmonious Duet
To enhance the culinary experience, I entrusted the wine pairing to the expertise of The Kitchin’s sommelier. The chosen wines, meticulously matched to each course, transformed the meal into a harmonious duet. From a crisp Chablis accentuating the scallops to a velvety Rioja enhancing the richness of the Wellington, each sip complemented the symphony of flavors.
Securing a table at The Kitchin is a testament to its popularity. Reservations, available through their website, are advised well in advance, ensuring a seamless entry into this culinary sanctuary. The restaurant also offers gift vouchers—a thoughtful present for fellow epicureans.
Booking and Considerations
When exploring Edinburgh’s culinary scene, reservations are essential, especially for popular establishments. Many restaurants offer online booking options through their websites or platforms like OpenTable. It’s advisable to plan ahead, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or aim for prime dining hours.
Culinary Etiquette and Local Insights
Edinburgh’s culinary etiquette revolves around respecting reservation times and tipping around 10-15%. Engaging with locals can unlock hidden culinary treasures, and striking up conversations with chefs or fellow diners might lead to discovering off-the-beaten-path eateries or seasonal specialties.
Edinburgh’s culinary scene is a rich tapestry woven with history, innovation, and a deep love for locally sourced ingredients. Each restaurant tells a unique story through its dishes, leaving a lasting impression on both the palate and the heart. As you embark on your gastronomic journey through this enchanting city, may the flavors of Edinburgh linger in your memories, creating a symphony of culinary delights that resonate long after you bid the city farewell.
