Must-visits in and around Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a gastronomic hub filled with all your possible foodie wants and needs.
I doubt I will ever feel I have explored enough of the food scene here, there is always something new to discover . . .
a new pop-up venue, a new fusion restaurant, a new gastro-pub.
This week I’ve picked a few of my favourites from in and around the city . . . each of these were actually return visits because we enjoyed them so much the first time.
Have you been to any great places worth a visit in Scotland? Let me know in the comments!
Loch Fyne Oyster Bar (Cairndow)
Without doubt you will have been in a restaurant that serves Loch Fyne oysters as they are famed for their quality.
I can’t recommend enough making the trip out to the west to visit the Loch Fyne Oyster bar itself, if you go the Callander route from Edinburgh it is worth it for the drive alone (with a coffee stop at Mhor 84 along the way!). The scenery is some of the most beautiful you can experience with the restaurant being set right on the banks of Loch Fyne.
The menu offers lots of fresh fish and shellfish sourced from the loch itself (and a token steak dish).
We opted for oysters, langoustines and half lobster YUM!
If you’re planning a visit at the weekend make sure you book (last orders 4pm in the winter months).
Harvey Nichols 4th Floor (Edinburgh)
The brasserie at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh 4th Floor is worth a visit for the views over St Andrews Square and Edinburgh Castle as much as it’s worth a visit for the food. It provides a casual dining experience in stunning settings with excellent service at great value!
They’ve currently got their Christmas menu available 2 courses for £25 or 3 for £30. The perfect rest-stop after some christmas shopping!
We went for the Confit Chicken, Potted Smoked Mackerel, Roast Duck Breast and Bailey’s Cheesecake.
*If you’re planning on popping in for a spot of lunch during busy periods – be prepared as they don’t take lunch reservations. You may have a small wait, but I’m sure you’ll find something to keep you entertained in Harvey Nichols.
Scran & Sallie (Stockbridge)
Owned by Michelin star chef Tom Kitchin, this is one of my favourite spots in Stockbridge. It always has such a warm atmosphere with great food! But you HAVE to book in advance, both times I have booked 6 weeks in advance and even then there was limited availability. There are a few drop-in tables available in the bar area but you have to be lucky to grab one of them (worth a shot though!).
I love the Scottish theme on the menu, or should i say ‘Oor Menu’ with ‘Yer Mains’ and ‘Bits and Bobs’ and ‘Yer Puddins’.
I may have been slightly distracted by the wine and food to take enough photos but I did remember to take my starter and main;
Roast Bone Marrow with Ox Tongue and Mushroom followed by The Scran and Scallie Steak Pie. DEEEELICIOUS!
Where are your must-visits in Edinburgh?
