1 day to go! We’re so excited to be gearing up for tomorrow our Sunday market relaunch.
We’ll be welcoming a wonderful range of traders to delight the senses.
See you between 10am – 4pm!
Tomorrow: Sunday Market returns at Leith Community Croft
Tag: food and drink
Iona Cafe at St Columba’s
Temporary Closure Notice – Iona Café
Due to a combination of staff/volunteer holidays and illness, the Iona Café will be closed from Monday 7th July to Sunday 20th July.
We’re very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and truly appreciate your understanding.
We look forward to welcoming you back when we reopen on Monday 21st July!
Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store
- FREE Little Seedlings Holiday Club
- Kids Eat for £1
- Soft play, bookings start from £2 for members and £2.50 for non-members
- Great deals on outdoor toys
This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies’ Edinburgh store for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.
Little Seedlings Holiday Club is back by popular demand to entertain children over the school break with a sensory workshop, and families can enjoy low prices on the soft play experience and Kids Eat for £1.
Families can also get 20% off all outdoor toys and play equipment on top of existing promotions for a limited time at the Edinburgh store, giving the kids plenty to keep busy with right through summer. From hippo sandpits, flower pools and toddler swings, to slides, activity towers and trampolines, there is something for all ages. Deals include
- Plum 10ft fun springsafe trampoline, now £95.99 (was £149.99)
- Set of 2 flower pool, now £7.99 (was £19.99)
- Hedstrom folding toddler swing, now £35.99 (was £54.99)
- Hedstrom wavy pool, now £71.99 (was £99.99)
Little Seedlings Holiday Club
Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Holiday Club returns to the Edinburgh store this summer with an exciting workshop, Summer Scents. This session takes place on various days across July and August, and is perfect for children aged 4-10 years old.
Attendees will become scent explorers and learn all about the sweet smells of summer in gardens, homes and parks. Children will discover how and why flowers have scents, the happy herbs with the most fragrance, and the long history of perfume making, before getting the chance to mix their own petal perfume to take home.
It’s a hands-on workshop that celebrates beautiful summer scents and is perfect for keeping the little ones busy over the school holidays.
Dates vary, visit www.dobbies.com/events for more information.
Kids Eat for £1
Dobbies offers Kids Eat For £1, allowing children under the age of 16 to enjoy their food for less with every traditional adult breakfast and main course meal at lunch. Children can pick from the kids’ breakfasts, lunch menu or pick ‘n’ mix meal, including a drink.
Restaurants are open Monday-Sunday from 9am, location times may vary and customers are advised to visit dobbies.com to check the restaurant opening hours for the Edinburgh store.
Soft play
Families are invited to come and join in the fun at Dobbies’ Little Seedlings soft play at the Edinburgh store, where children of all ages, from babies and toddlers to young kids, can let off some steam and play in a safe environment.
The soft play area is in Dobbies’ restaurant, where families can enjoy tasty meals and snacks, plus kids eat for £1 with every adult main meal.
Pre-booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, but there may be walk-in spaces available on the day, prices and age ranges vary for each store, starting at £2 for members and at £2.50 for non-members.
For more information on the Little Seedlings Holiday Club at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store and activities for families this summer, visit www.dobbies.com/events.
Exploratory plans lodged to turn Edinburgh’s iconic Wonderland Models shop into restaurants
Exploratory plans have been lodged with the city council to transform the beloved Edinburgh hobby shop Wonderland Models into new restaurants.
Wonderland Models has been established as one of Scotland’s leading model shops for over 50 years.
As part of the shop’s future planning, the team behind the store are investigating the option of converting the properties in their current location into restaurants, with the model shop business potentially relocating elsewhere.
Wonderland Models has operated out of 97-103 Lothian Road for decades, serving generations of capital residents with a selection of niche toys, crafts, and models. Documents have been submitted to Edinburgh Council for a potential change of use, transforming the shop into two separate restaurants with new signage, replacing the classic Wonderland storefront.
The interior, currently outfitted with shop rooms, would be refitted to include kitchens, dining rooms, food preparation areas, and restrooms.
Wonderland Models has been one of Scotland’s leading model shops for 53 years. The shop has a global reputation as a model-making emporium for enthusiasts and is a signature part of the Edinburgh retail landscape.
Managing Director Iain Reid said: “For over 50 years, our bespoke range of paints to modelling kits have captured the minds of families. Not a day goes by when we do not see parents bringing their children in for the first time, just as their mums and dads did with them.
“Wonderland Models has been established as one of Scotland’s leading model shops for over 50 years, and as part of our future planning, we are investigating the option of turning the properties in our current location into restaurants with the model shop business potentially relocating elsewhere. We are currently exploring several options as part of this process.
“Lothian Road has changed beyond recognition since we started here back in the 1980s with many retail shops closing to be replaced by food and beverage outlets and the number of office workers (many now working just 3 days per week in the office) in the area similarly declining since the Covid pandemic. This has resulted in a substantial decline in foot traffic.
“It is critical to note to our loyal customers this is an exploratory move. It’s business as usual for us and will remain that way for the foreseeable future. If a change does come, you can rest assured we will still be a fixture in the capital.
“Wonderland Models remains utterly committed to our customers. We’re a unique shop in the Edinburgh retail landscape, and we are enormously grateful to our customers who have given us their business, love, and loyalty for over half a century.”
New Community Café Opening in Edinburgh
A new community café operated by sight loss charity RNIB Scotland will open to the public on Monday (23rd June).
Café VI will serve a selection of sandwiches, cakes, hot drinks and other refreshments. It will be open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm.
Located on Hillside Crescent, Café VI is an inclusive and accessible space, in line with RNIB Scotland’s mission to support people with sight loss and promote a sense of community in everyday life.
The café aims to provide a welcoming environment for the local community and to help raise awareness of sight loss through its design and operation.
The café will be staffed by a team of dedicated volunteers, including both sighted and visually impaired individuals, working together to deliver friendly service and foster inclusion.
The project has involved staff, volunteers, and individuals with lived experience of visual impairment. In addition to the regular food and drink service, the café will also host occasional events and community initiatives.
Daryl Stewart, one of the visually impaired volunteers who will help run the café, says: “Whether grabbing a quick coffee or staying for a chat, every visit helps raise awareness about sight loss and supports RNIB Scotland’s vital work.”
*Visit Café VI at 12-14 Hillside Crescent, Edinburgh, EH7 5EA, Monday – Friday 10am- 3pm.
Seasonal flavours at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store
Brand new summer menu for customers to enjoy
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.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh ‘Own The Week’ with flavourful offers
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 Thursdays are 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.
For bookings and more information: https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/
Will Edinburgh be the first to roll out Public Diners?
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 
Find out more 
: https://www.scottishcommunityalliance.org.uk/…/will…
Nourish Scotland is building a wide, diverse network of supporters for the public diners proposal.
If you would like your organisation to get involved, you can contact them at abigail@nourishscotland.org.uk
Sustainable cooking for New Scots
ELREC WORKSHOP AT HEART OF NEWHAVEN
SATURDAY 14 JUNE 12.45 – 2.45PM
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.
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
Registration: https://forms.gle/PYDCdzj3m9EfbikW7
Support for Scotland’s small food and drink businesses
Funding to promote local and regional products
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.”
Regional Food Fund | Scotland Food & Drink (foodanddrink.scot)
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