Dobbies Garden Centres has launched its brand-new summer menu, bringing a variety of seasonal flavours and delicious dishes to customers at its Edinburgh store.
The special summer dishes lean into what’s in season and have been designed to offer new and light options for customers, while complementing some of Dobbies’ popular main course options for those looking for a hearty meal.
Lighter lunches include Cheddar cheese and tomato quiche and Goat’s cheese and red onion puff pastry tart, both served with a dressed side salad and slaw, and the chicken ham and leek pie, a hearty favourite, served with seasonal vegetables and a rich gravy.
Restaurants also have seasonal sweet treats with customers in Edinburgh able to enjoy a tasty new white chocolate and raspberry roulade, a meringue filled with cream, raspberry sauce and white chocolate pieces; a raspberry tart topped with fresh raspberries in a butter crust pastry; or a baked mixed fruit cheesecake with grapes, blueberries, raspberries and kiwi.
Dobbies’ banana iced chocolate summer drink is back by popular demand for those who like all things sweet and there is an iced salted caramel latte for those who love their coffee. Refreshing iced lemonade coolers are also available as part of the summer menu, with mango, cherry and strawberry to choose from.
The Heritage Afternoon Tea is also available as part of the summer menu and has been carefully curated in honour of celebrating Dobbies’ 160th birthday. It offers three tiers of sweet and savoury delights, including Dobbies’ famous scones, plus unlimited tea and coffee refills.
The Edinburgh store also has a fantastic line up of events in the coming weeks, including the Fairy Garden Tea Party on 28 and 29 June which includes a delicious children’s afternoon tea.
Dave Worthington, Head of Food Development at Dobbies said: “Our brand-new summer menu is bursting with flavour, offering customers in Edinburgh the chance to enjoy an array of seasonal dishes using produce that’s in season.
“The Cheddar cheese and tomato quiche and the goat’s cheese and red onion puff pastry tart are two of our lighter lunches that we’re anticipating being popular.
“We also have brought back our banana iced chocolate milkshake due to popular demand, and hope that the variety in our indulgent drink range has something for everyone, whether it’s a sweet drink or a refreshing fruit cooler.”
For more information about the new summer menu available and events at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store, visit www.dobbies.com.
The school summer holidays are quickly approaching, starting with the term ending on Thursday, 26th June. Kids are ready to start the fun, but that doesn’t mean adults should miss out on a little break, too.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is spicing things up during the week by introducing ‘Own The Week’, with a different deal hitting the menu from Monday through Thursday each week, allowing guests to treat themselves without breaking the bank and turn a weekday night into a weekend vibe.
Mega Monday Margaritas start the week right with jumbo versions of the classic, bursting with flavour – perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). At £13.95 each, they’re the ideal way to toast to summer.
Tako Tiki Tuesdays lets you pair your choice of two tacos and a tiki drink, for the perfect summer match. Choose from either Baja shrimp, chopped cheese, buffalo chicken or al pastor, paired with a cocktail like the ‘Cheeky Tiki’ or ‘Tiki Tiki Boom Boom’ for just £20. As an extra treat, collective tiki glasses can be purchased for £7.50 – it’s tiki time somewhere!
Winning Wednesdays are for the wine lovers. Order a bottle of house wine to receive a complimentary plate of the delicious Tupelo Dippers – crispy hand breaded chicken tenders served with your choice of two dipping sauces.
Throwback Thursdaysare made for dining on old-school throwbacks, prepared the Hard Rock way. Dive into an iconic classic burger, fries, a side of onion rings and refreshing Coke Float for just £19.71.
Will Edinburgh be the first to roll out Public Diners?
Nourish Scotland has been campaigning to reintroduce public diners in Scotland and the UK.
Public diners were popular in Britain during the 1940s and 50s, and today there are successful international examples in countries such as Turkey. Public diners are community restaurants that provide sustainable and affordable food options.
In Edinburgh, the council will be developing a proposal for a public diner trial. If this goes ahead, Edinburgh will be the first city in the UK to have a public diner
Introducing our first workshop for New Scots in Edinburgh
Join our free Sustainable Cooking Workshop to meet new people, practise your English, and take part in something meaningful!
Together we will explore the rich tradition of Ukrainian Borsch, a flavourful sour soup made with meat stock, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, cherished across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia.
Come be a part of a powerful experience that unites community, culture, and cause.
Date: 14 June 2025 (Saturday)
Time: 12:45 – 14:45
Venue: Heart of Newhaven Community Centre
Address: 4-6 Main Street, Newhaven, Edinburgh, EH6 4HY
Language: English and Ukrainian
Open to: New Scots aged 18 or over who have a basic understanding of English
Food and drink festivals, farmers markets and culinary masterclasses are just some of the projects from across Scotland set to benefit from grants of up to £5,000.
The latest round of the Regional Food Fund will support 15 local and collaborative projects helping small food businesses to thrive while promoting local produce.
Scotland Food & Drink manages the fund aimed at elevating the food and drink industry, enhancing food tourism and showcasing the best the country has to offer.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Scotland’s food and drink industry is worth £15 billion to the economy; it is one of the country’s largest employers and is already well-recognised and established across the world.
“Engaging with regional markets is vital in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the next ten years. That’s why, through initiatives like the Regional Food Fund, we are providing much-needed support to small projects to showcase the best products that their regions have to offer.
“A wonderful range of projects will be supported through this round, including foraging experiences and masterclasses at Isle of Bute food and drink festival, learning about the turnip being a climate-friendly crop in Fife, or improving their culinary skills at Huntly Hairst’s celebration of local food and drink. I look forward to hearing how each of these exciting projects develops.”
Scotland Food & Drink Head of Regional Food Fiona Richmond said: “We are pleased to be able to support 15 more collaborative food and drink projects around the country with the latest round of the Regional Food Fund.
“Our judging panel were impressed with the level of commitment and creativity shown by the successful applicants, who represent the true passion that makes our vibrant food and drink industry so special.
“We know that local food and drink initiatives play a vital role in the continued growth of Scotland’s food, drink, and tourism sectors. Congratulations to this year’s recipients – we can’t wait to see the projects we have supported come to life.”
Since 2021, the Scottish Government has provided over £500,000 to the Fund, which has supported 104 collaborative projects, varying from creative artwork to increase customer numbers, new equipment and regional marketing campaigns.
The successful applicants in this round are:
Huntly Hairst, Aberdeenshire. Celebration of local food and drink£2,975
Established 2012, this year will be a collaboration’ theme, producers will prepare meal plans and menus to guide visitors around the stalls, gathering fresh ingredients, listening to masterclasses and demonstrations. Funding will support production of campaign materials and promotion.
Angus Farmers Market, Angus. Appetite for Angus £3,000
The project aims to rescue and revitalise the farmers’ markets in Forfar, Carnoustie and Montrose which are due to close in their current form. Markets provide a vital source of income in the area. Funds will contribute to market rebrand.
Argyll and the Isles. Virtual Farmers’ Market£5,000
Creation of innovative digital farmers’ market to help local producers increase their sales and show their contribution to the local economy, both to visitors and locals. This project will off support to rural businesses struggling with rising costs with funds going towards the creation of assets and campaign delivery.
Alloa, Clackmannanshire. First Sound Bites Festival 2026£5,000
Collaborative, community festival to promote sales of local produce. Funding will help expand food and drink offer following successful trial last year and will contribute to marketing material and stall hire.
Dumfries and Galloway. Nurture from Nature – Local Food Outlet£5,000
Project aims to create a permanent retail outlet for local producers on this working farm. Funding will contribute to development of marketing and promotional costs.
Fife. Food from Fife – Retail Display Project £5,000
Following the successful trial in November 2024 by regional food group, Food From Fife, roll out of more branded units and point of sale material to a wider range of Fife food and drink businesses, providing dedicated in-store marketing and sales space.
North Fife and Tayside. From Tree to Glass £4,500
Delivered by Bioregioning Tayside, creation of producer group to promote and grow the area’s craft cider and perry production, preserving its apple, pear and plum heritage. Funds will support delivery of business to business, consumer and education events and materials.
Fife. Turning the Tide for Turnip Revolution £5,000
led by East of Scotland Growers will deliver a series of partnerships with chefs, retailers and communities to raise awareness and sales of turnip as a modern, delicious, climate-friendly crop. Funding will contribute to branding, marketing and chef costs.
Forth Valley. Forth Valley Five £4,993
Led by regional food group, Forth Valley Food & Drink, this collaborative project will encourage restaurants, cafes, retailers and locals to add feature five local products on menus; stock five new local products on shelves and add five local products to shopping baskets. Funds will support creation of marketing materials and delivery.
Isle of Bute. Isle of Bute Food & Drink Festival£3,240
Three-day celebration of the island’s food and drink via producer stalls; masterclasses; foraging and other experiences, delivered by regional food group, Bute Kitchen, in collaboration with other organisations and businesses.
Love Loch Lomond – A Taste of Loch Lomond Marketing Campaign £4,500
Marketing campaign to promote a new publication, ‘A Taste of Loch Lomond: Stories & Flavours from the Bonnie Banks’, that showcases stories, products and recipes from the area’s local producers and hospitality businesses. Funding will support campaign material production and promotion.
Orkney. Orkney Food and Drink Festival £5,000
Delivered by regional food group, Orkney Food and Drink, this two-day festival will bring together the island’s businesses to sell their products to visitors and locals. Funding will support venue and promotional costs.
Outer Hebrides. Hebridean Fine Food & Drink Festival £3,000
Regional food group, Eat Drink Hebrides, will deliver branding and marketing assets for two food fairs and two networking events including a Food and Drink Awards, increasing sales, promoting local businesses and supporting local supply chains.
Fine Cheesemakers of Scotland – Promoting Scottish Artisanal Cheese £5,000
Project from this collaborative artisan cheese network to improve digital presence and tell a more compelling and cohesive story to increase sales and promotion. Funding will support professional content rebrand including video/photos/Instagram and website.
The Scottish Cider Festival£5,000
New annual event to promote Scotland’s emerging cider industry, delivered by Fife-based cider pioneers, Aeble. Hosted in Edinburgh, it will provide a platform for the country’s producers to sell their craft products, partnering with other local food and drink producers. Funding will support venue, branding and marketing costs.
TOTAL 15 Applicants TOTAL GRANT CLAIM FUNDING£66,208
Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge is back again for another year, giving customers in Edinburgh the chance to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
The supermarket challenge, inspired by the legendary game show, is sure to add excitement to the weekly shopping trip. As well as fundraising, Edinburgh locals have the chance to take home their favourite items from Aldi’s store in Leith.
Launched in 2016, the supermarket challenge offers shoppers the chance to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, allowing them to gather as many Aldi favourites as they can within the timeframe.
Once the time is up, the lucky shopper gets to take home the trolley full of goodies, while Aldi matches the cash value of the goods as a donation.
Each year across Scotland CHAS supports over 500 babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025 every penny raised through Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support.
Edinburgh residents can apply for the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 2 June to Sunday 8 June.
Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said:“Our annual Supermarket Sweeps hold a special place in the Aldi calendar, donating over £50,000 to local charities since 2016.
“We’re very much looking forward to its return for another year and giving one lucky Edinburgh resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience.
“CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, which provides a truly invaluable lifeline for families across Scotland, offering specialist care and unwavering support during the most difficult moments imaginable.
“This year, Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep will be travelling all over Scotland, giving Aldi customers nationally a brilliant opportunity to raise funds for CHAS while shining a light on the incredible work the charity does.”
BURGER KING® UK’s EDINBURGH PRINCES ST RESTAURANT LOOKS BETTER THAN EVER AFTER RECENT GLOW UP
It’s a great day for burger fans in Edinburgh Princes St! After much anticipation, Burger King® UK will officially re-open the doors to its newly designed restaurant in Princes St, allowing hungry locals to indulge in BK classics such as the flame-grilled Whopper®, classic Chicken Royale® and juicy Bacon Double XL once again.
Burger King® UK is celebrating the reopening by giving away 1,000 FREE Whopper® or Chicken Royale burgers* to lucky customers for one day only, on Tuesday 3rd of June.
The newly remodelled Edinburgh Princes St restaurant brings customer experience to a new level, with all-new in-restaurant innovations such as table service and a sensational menu that caters to all customers, whether they’re looking to start their day with a delicious breakfast butty and coffee for just £2.99, enjoy a family feast on delivery, or indulge in a late night snack.
Burger King® UK has also confirmed its extended hours at the Edinburgh Princes St restaurant, which is now open from 08:00 to 00:00. This means customers can make the most of Burger King® UK’s delicious menu from morning to late.
Paul Beach, Restaurant Manager at Burger King® UK, said:“The team and I are thrilled to return and serve our customers in Edinburgh Princes St.
“We look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new guests to experience the renovated restaurant, and we’re confident they’ll have a fantastic time while enjoying our delicious meals.”
The re-opening of Edinburgh Princes St is the perfect opportunity for Burger King® UK fans to make the most of the tasty deals and discounts available on the Burger King® app. Whether it’s the classic Whopper® or Chicken Royale, customers can make savings all year round!
As Robbie Williams prepares to take to the Murrayfield stage at the end of May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is kicking things off early to celebrate his arrival in the capital.
On Friday 30th May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh turns back the clock for one night only to host the exclusive Hard ‘Rock DJ’ Night, celebrating the best of 90s music and nightlife.
From 7pm until late, the iconic George Street venue will come alive with a high-energy DJ set packed with 90s floor-fillers, sing-along classics and Robbie’s top hits, perfect for those who can’t make the concert the next day.
More than just a night of music, the restaurant will be serving up its full menu, available until 10:30 pm, featuring favourites such as the Legendary® Burgers, spicy wings, and signature cocktails, making it the perfect fuel for a night on the dancefloor.
Whilst the event is free to attend, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable or Event Brite.
MasterChef champion Gary Maclean has teamed up with Mary’s Meals this National BBQ Week to encourage Scots to back the charity throughout barbecue season
Firing up the barbecue this week? Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef, has you covered!
It’s National BBQ Week and MasterChef champion and long-time Mary’s Meals supporter Gary has compiled his top five tips to make a stress-free family cookout.
Gary is backing the international school meals charity once more and encouraging people to donate to Mary’s Meals during National BBQ Week (26 May – 1 June).
Mary Meals feeds more than 2.6 million children every school day in 16 countries across the world. By offering a daily meal in school, Mary’s Meals attracts children from the world’s poorest communities into the classroom where they can gain an education which can be their ladder out of poverty.
Gary says: “It costs only £19.15 to feed a child with Mary’s Meals for a school year, just 10p a meal, which is such incredible value!
“This National BBQ Week, you could ask family and friends for a small donation to come along to your barbecue, and if you use my five top tips, you’ll make your guests happy all while giving hope to hungry children.”
Marinate ahead Marinate meat overnight to build flavour and tenderise. A mix of whisky, honey, cracked pepper and thyme works well with pork, chicken or game.
Bring to room temperature Take meat or fish out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. It’ll cook more evenly and won’t stick to the grill as much.
Use two heat zones Set your barbecue with a hot side for searing and a cooler side for finishing. It gives you more control and helps avoid flare-ups.
Add a bit of smoke A handful of soaked oak chips or sprigs of rosemary on the coals adds great flavour. Dried heather works too, if you have it.
Rest before carving Let meat rest under foil before serving. It keeps it juicy and gives you better texture.
Bonus Tips
Grilled Veg – Courgettes, mushrooms, and leeks grill beautifully. Season well and finish with a bit of crumbled crowdie.
Quick Grill Cleaner – Rub a hot grill with half an onion on a fork. It’s simple and does the job.
Sauce Late – If you’re using a sweet glaze or BBQ sauce, brush it on near the end to avoid burning.
Dessert on the Grill – Try halved peaches or apples in foil with brown sugar and a splash of whisky.
That’s not all though: Scotland’s national chef has also served up four delicious Scottish barbecue recipe ideas that are sure to impress:
Scottish twists on barbecue classics
Haggis-Stuffed Peppers
Fill peppers with traditional or veggie haggis and grill until charred and smoky.
Whisky-Glazed Venison Burgers
Swap beef for venison and brush with a whisky and honey glaze. Serve with pickled onions on a soft roll.
Aberdeen Angus Brisket with Irn-Bru Glaze
Slow-cook brisket with a smoky rub, then glaze with reduced Irn-Bru for a sweet finish.
Seaweed Butter Corn
Grill corn and brush with butter mixed with dried seaweed or samphire. Salty, savoury, and very moreish.
Dan McNally, Head of Grassroots at Mary’s Meals, says: “It costs just 10p to provide one school meal to a hungry child with Mary’s Meals.
“With a £5 donation at your next barbecue, we can reach 50 children with a nutritious meal.
“If you purchase a cooking apron from our online shop ahead of hosting your own summer barbecue, your £15 donation will feed 150 children in school. With the sun out and with Gary’s top tips, there’s never been a better time to get grilling, all while supporting Mary’s Meals!”
By making a donation to Mary’s Meals, supporters can help children like 11-year-old Melanie from Madagascar enjoy a nutritious meal at school today and work towards a brighter tomorrow.
She says: “Thank you, Mary’s Meals. We are always full at school and that motivates us to work hard. I study because I want to achieve my goals and help my parents when I succeed.”
To find out more about Mary’s Meals, and to donate, please visit marysmeals.org.uk
During Mega Match May, your generosity will go three times as far – meaning you can feed even more hungry children with Mary’s Meals. Until 31 May, if you set up a regular gift to Mary’s Meals, your first three donations will be tripled by a generous donor. Visit marysmeals.org.uk/mega-match-may and start your monthly donation today.
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now OPEN!
Scotland’s longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 – and they want Edinburgh to have their say! The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards are back, celebrating three decades of raising a glass to the nation’s best boozers, hospitality heroes, top-notch gastropubs, and brilliant beer gardens.
Last year set the bar sky-high, with stand-out Edinburgh winners such as Montpeliers David and Ruth Wither who won the Lifetime Achievement Award, Teuchters Landing (Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering), Black Ivy (Best Outdoor Area) and Lochrin Rooftop Bar (Hotel Bar of the Year). Now, the search is on again and organisers are excited to hear who your favourites are for 2025!
It’s not just about the pubs – it’s also about the people behind the pints! From whisky wizards and rising stars to standout bar managers shaking up the scene, the awards shine a spotlight on the personalities powering Scotland’s licensed trade.
And with Schweppes on the hunt for a ‘Mixologist of the Year,’ it’s time to nominate those who stir, shake, and serve with serious flair.
If you’re interested in supporting your much-loved local venue, whether it’s for the lively atmosphere, exceptional food, or outstanding service, your vote can help highlight the pubs that make Scotland’s hospitality scene special. They have to be in it to win it, and your vote could make all the difference!
But don’t wait – voting closes on the 14th of June. Finalists will be revealed soon after with the judges then hitting the road for mystery visits across the country.
The winners will be crowned at a glittering Oscar themed ceremony in Glasgow on August 26th!
Event organiser, Susan Young, reflected on the milestone, saying: “Over the past 30 years, we’ve seen some incredible talent recognised at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards and this year will be no different!
“Despite the challenges, hospitality remains one of Scotland’s most vibrant and rewarding industries. It’s a real privilege to shine a spotlight on the passionate people working hard behind the scenes in some of the country’s best-loved venues – that’s what these awards are all about!
“I hope their customers make the effort to vote for pubs, bars, restaurants and staff that make hospitality special.”
The full list of categories includes Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, Brugal 1888 Cocktail Bar of the Year, Caledonia Inns & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur, DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, Campari Bar Apprentice 2025, De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues, Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award, Favela Independent Multiple Operator of the Year, Fireball Best Late Night Venue, Hospitality Health Employer of the Year, HOSPO Manager of the Year, Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering, Jameson Best Irish Bar, Schweppes Mixologist of the Year, Sims Automatics Sports Bar of the Year, Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality, DRAM Best Beer Garden, Jump Ship Brewing Gastropub of the Year, New Bar of the Year and Sunday Mail Pub of the Year.
Deadline for Nominations – 14th June 2024
For a full list of this years categories and to vote please go to:
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