Tag: food and drink

Cocktail Bar with Scotland’s largest collection of rum celebrates first Birthday with new Low-Waste Menu

Edinburgh-based Ruma – home to the largest collection of rum across the whole of Scotland – is adapting to an ever-changing cocktail scene with a brand-new low-waste menu including non-alcoholic & non-rum options, launching an online shop, plus a host of new tasting experiences.

Ruma (Scots Gaelic for Rum) host to over 170 bottles of the spirit – more than any bar ever in Scotland – is celebrating one year in business.

The rum experts are adjusting positively to a rapidly-evolving cocktail scene with a brand-new cocktail menu including a host of non-rum and non-alcoholic options, as well as launching an online shop in time for summer 2025. 

Ruma’s brand-new menu is split into five sections based on each drink’s flavour profile: Fresh, Fruity, Short, Smoke & Savoury, and Classics – the idea is to make it as easy as possible for guests to navigate, learn & discover new cocktails – alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic.  

Reducing waste throughout, the menu strives to use each ingredient to its fullest. Ruma’s most popular drink, the Spiced Pear Mule – which uses a poached pear syrup from fresh pears – is utilised to the maximum. 

Any wasted fruit from the Spiced Pear Mule is then blended with spent wine, to create a new drink – the Mrs Kenmore –  which is carbonated alongside a gentian liqueur and Brugal 1888 Rum, to create a fresh, fizzy cocktail reminiscent of sparkling wine. 

A new online bottle shop will launch at the beginning of May containing all 170 of the Ruma’s rums available for rum-lovers to enjoy 30ml sample bottles at home. Ruma is also launching a range of canned cocktails for the new menu, handing them out to local businesses and bars to create comradery among independent business owners.

Ruma now offers ‘Rum Experiences’ – bookable each week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. A tasting flight of three rums, with different categories available such as ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ or ‘Intro to Scottish Rum’. 

The bar also hosts ‘Passport Sessions’, a world tour of rum tastings specialising in a different country each month and sampling six hard to find or rare bottlings, taking guests to the likes of Guyana, Haiti, Barbados, and Martinique. 

Ruma Co-Owner, Jamie Shields, said: “We opened Ruma one year ago to welcome the largest collection of Rum to Scotland. The response from our loyal guests has been amazing. A thirst for knowledge and interest in where each rum comes from and tastes like is what our staff love talking about. 

“In our first year we have seen a demand for cocktails and drinks of all types. At our heart we will always be a rum bar, but we also thought ‘why can’t we offer a range of other drinks too?’ Non-alcoholic options are now key in hospitality. Rather than relegating these to a section at the back of the menu, we believe that guests who are not drinking alcohol should have the same menu experience as those who are, as each has been crafted with as much care as the drinks with alcohol. 

“We love championing local. That’s why we serve local beer from Campervan Brewery, and we also have a great wine list by the glass too. Ruma’s goal is to serve the widest range of rum in the country through unforgettable experiences, but also offer deliciously alternative drinks to ensure guests leave with a satisfied smile on their face, and always come back for more”.  

Ruma is based at 39-41 Broughton Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town serving Scotland’s largest collection of rum. 

Foysol Choudhury Congratulates Anisa Khan, the First Finalist of Bengali-descent on BBC’s The Apprentice

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, congratulates Anisa Khan, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who has made history as the first finalist of Bengali descent to appear on BBC’s The Apprentice.

She is the owner of Bombay Pizza, an Indian-Italian fusion pizza company in London. She identifies as a British-Bangladeshi woman and her heritage plays a significant role in her business and her identity.

She is a national Kabaddi player from London and has founded Bombay Pizza with the plan to redefine success with the incorporation of South Asian influence.

As the first finalist of Bengali descent, she blends her cultural pride into her work, representing her passion for food, family, and culture.

The Apprentice is one of the UK’s most influential reality TV shows, showcasing ambitious entrepreneurs competing for a business investment from Lord Alan Sugar.

Over nearly two decades, it has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring viewers with high-stakes challenges, strategic decision-making, and entrepreneurial ambition.

The 2025 finale, which aired on Thursday, April 17, drew around 3.5 million viewers, with Dean Franklin, founder of ADL Air Conditioning, named Lord Sugar’s newest business partner.

Since 2020, Anisa has been operating Bombay Pizza from a dark kitchen in Wallington, Sutton, crafting hand-crafted pizzas inspired by South Asian flavours.

Due to high demand, Bombay Pizza currently offers in-person orders only, but Anisa recently launched Bombay Pizza by Post, a nationwide delivery service.

Last month’s postal orders sold out quickly, but customers can sign up for the mailing list to be the first to know when they’re back in stock. In celebration of her Apprentice journey, Anisa has introduced a special edition of Apprentice-inspired pizzas on Bombay Pizza by Post, each named after one of the final five contestants.

‘The Anisa’ features Bengali chicken naga, peppers, red onions, and mozzarella on a spicy masala base—bringing the heat in true Apprentice fashion.

Anisa approached The Apprentice with confidence and ambition, believing in the immense potential of Bombay Pizza’s unique concept and its overwhelmingly positive reception.

Reflecting on her time on the show, she shared, “I didn’t realise how resilient I was as a person. I’m someone that if I have a goal, I’ll make it happen.”

Over 12 gruelling weeks, she showcased determination and drive, making her one of the standout contenders of the season.

In the series finale, Anisa finished as runner-up. She remains undeterred, leveraging her experience and connections to propel Bombay Pizza to even greater heights. This is truly a world-class achievement and has given a sense of pride to the Bangladeshi and South Asian community in the UK. For those eager to taste the flavours that took her so far, a visit to Bombay Pizza in Wallington, London is a must.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Anisa has brought great pride to the Bangladeshi community in Scotland and throughout the UK.

“Her contemporary ideas and fusion of South Asian flavour and Italian cuisine have been a wonderful addition to the restaurant sector in London.

“I am proud to call her father, Mr. Yawar Khan, a dear friend and I look forward to witnessing the success of her business continue.”

National Tea Day: How to make the perfect cuppa

To celebrate National Tea Day (21st April), an expert at Yorkshire Tea has revealed the four steps to making the perfect cup of tea. 

Tea is still the nation’s favourite hot drink, with over 100,000,000 cups being drunk in the UK every single day of the year. 

To help people celebrate this National Tea Day properly, Katie Kippax, tea buyer at Yorkshire Tea, the UK’s #1 brew, has shared the secrets to making the perfect brew, including the exact time you need to leave the teabag in your mug. 

Katie says: “Everyone makes tea differently, but there are some general rules to getting it right. So, if you want to impress the tea lovers in your life, here are some expert tips from the team at Yorkshire Tea for making a proper brew.”

  1) Only use fresh water – “The oxygen in water helps to bring out the flavour in your tea, so make sure to use fresh water and only boil it once to keep the O2 level up.” 

2) Warm up your mug – “Tea likes hot water just off the boil, so don’t wait around when your kettle has finished. It’s important to keep the temperature up, and a chilly teapot or mug can cool things down. Consider warming them with a little hot water before making your tea to help the flavour to develop.” 

3) Brew for at least four minutes – “Tea also needs time to unlock all its flavour, so leave the teabag brewing for around four to five minutes to do its thing. Trust us, it really makes a difference. It might seem like a long time, but it is worth the investment!”  

4) Squeeze gently and only once – “Before removing the tea bag, gently squidge it against the side of the mug. Make sure you only do this once and gently or else your brew will taste bitter.” 

Katie adds: “However you make your brew, we raise our mugs to you all this National Tea Day!” 

For more expert advice from Yorkshire Tea on how to make the perfect brew, visit: https://www.yorkshiretea.co.uk/our-teas/how-to-make-a-proper-brew

Edinburgh’s “blockbuster” burger joint back for another bite at Deliveroo Restaurant Awards


Luxford Burgers hope to be crowned culinary champions for a second year

One Edinburgh eatery is hoping for a second helping of success at the Deliveroo Restaurant Awards. Foodie favourite, Luxford Burgers, has made the shortlist in the Best Burger and American category, with the award set to go to the food joint that griddles their patties to perfection.

Independent burger chain, Luxford Burgers, has gained a firm foodie following since opening in 2020. Taking inspiration from the silver screen, artwork from cult classic films adorn the interiors, the menu boasts a range of burgers named after must-watch movies, and complimentary popcorn is served while diners wait for the chefs to cook up a hit.

And these blockbuster burgers have already turned the heads of culinary critics. Last year, Luxford Burgers took home the awards for Independent Restaurant of the Year and Scotland Burger Restaurant of the Year at the 2024 Deliveroo Restaurant Awards. And now they’re back for another bite. 

Will Shu, chief executive and founder at Deliveroo, said; “The Deliveroo Restaurant Awards is about championing the local restaurants who provide incredible selection and quality food in their communities.

These restaurants are the beating heart of our towns and cities, and they obsess over making sure every food delivery is a special moment for our customers – that’s something worth celebrating.”

Reacting to the news that Luxford Burgers had made the shortlist once again, executive director Alexander Galpin said: “Our team work incredibly hard to source quality, fresh ingredients and create original flavour combinations that really stand out, so we’re glad we’ve caught the attention of the judges.

“We had a taste of success last year and now we’re coming back for more!”

Whether they emerge as culinary champions this year is all down to the public. Burger buffs have got until Friday 9th May to cast their vote via the Deliveroo Restaurant Awards website, with the winners set to be announced on Wednesday 28th May.

Tesco shopper selects local school to receive a £5,000 donation

St Thomas of Aquin’s High School is celebrating after being selected by a Tesco customer to receive a £5,000 donation.

On Saturday 15th March, Tesco customers at the Edinburgh Nicholson Street Express store were given the chance to take part in a lucky dip to find a golden version of Tesco’s famous blue voting token.

St Thomas of Aquin’s High School was one of three local groups that customers could vote for to receive the £5,000 Golden Grant as part of Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme.

Philippa Hastings, a member of staff at St Thomas of Aquin’s High School, said: “This funding will be used to support the families of the St Thomas of Aquin’s school students in accessing extra-curricular and excursion opportunities at a time when many families are struggling with the cost of living.

“We are trying to develop educational and engaging opportunities for young people to learn outside of the classroom and are thrilled to be able to support families financially thanks to this grant.”

Over one hundred Tesco stores across the country took part in the Golden Grants event, with £500,000 in total being donated to good causes that help children and young people.

Stronger Starts helps schools and children’s groups provide nutritious food and healthy activities that support young people’s physical health and mental wellbeing, such as breakfast clubs or snacks, as well as purchasing equipment for healthy activities.

Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco said: “We are incredibly proud to award Golden Grants to over one hundred schools and local projects, supporting the vital work they do for our children and communities.

“Since we launched our grants programme in 2016, more than £120 million has been given to more than 67,000 local schools and community groups.”

Golden Grants are part of Tesco’s £8 million Stronger Starts grant programme, which is delivered in partnership with the charity Groundwork UK.

Laura Anderson swaps Dubai for Troon to launch Equi’s new Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream Flavour

Former Capital Radio presenter and Love Island star, Laura Anderson, swapped the beaches of Dubai for sunkissed Troon beach on Friday (11 April) as she launched Equi’s limited edition Dubai Chocolate ice cream. 

The indulgent creamy ice cream is made with a chocolate base and is layered with delicious pistachio ripple and crunchy kataifi pastry pieces throughout. Over 41 parlours across Scotland are stocking the latest edition to Equi’s flavour wheel. From Aberdeen to Edinburgh and Glasgow to Largs more than 4000 scoops have been delivered in time for the weekend.

Laura Anderson said: “Everyone knows Dubai is one of my favourite places in the whole world.

“Dubai Chocolate has always been a staple every time I visit and to have it available as an ice cream is like complete heaven.”

Equis’s ice cream new product Laura Anderson – love island.

David Equi, owner of South Lanarkshire based Equi’s said: “Having lived in Dubai for ten years and making frequent visits back, we knew Laura was perfect to launch our new ice cream flavour.

“With Dubai Chocolate already being rationed by supermarkets we’re confident our Dubai Chocolate ice cream is going to be a huge hit with customers. But don’t wait too long – we’ve limited stock available and once you’ve tried it once we can guarantee you’ll be back for more.”

Fort Kinnaird announces Easter weekend opening hours

HOLIDAY FUN FOR FAMILIES

Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its opening hours for the upcoming Easter bank holiday weekend and is inviting families to enjoy a packed programme of fun, food and entertainment throughout the school holidays.

Whether you’re looking to stock up on Easter crafting supplies, treating the kids to a special meal out, or sampling some limited-edition Easter sweet treats, there is something for everyone looking to make the most of the long weekend and beyond.  

The centre’s opening hours over the Easter weekend will be:

  • Good Friday (Friday 18th April): 9am – 9pm 
  • Easter Saturday (Saturday 19th April): 9am – 6pm 
  • Easter Sunday (Sunday 20th April): 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Monday (Monday 21st April): 9am – 9pm 

Opening times at individual retailers may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check with specific venues ahead of their trip.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know the Easter break is a cherished time for families to relax, reconnect and make lasting memories.

“That’s why we’re delighted to be hosting a wide range of exciting Easter activities and deals all in one destination, from offers on Easter crafts to discounts at some of our most popular restaurants.”

Easter fun to make the most of at Fort Kinnaird includes:

  • Easter crafting essentials from Hobbycraft: Up your Easter craft game this year by making the most of a 50% discount on some supplies. From paint your own ceramics sets to paint by numbers, there’s something to keep all the little ones entertained on a rainy day.
  • Indulge in some Easter goodies at Frankie & Benny’s: Nothing says Easter like Cadbury Crème Eggs and Frankie & Benny’s have combined these with their cookie dough dessert for the ultimate sweet treat this Easter.
  • Free workshops at Pets at Home: The popular My Pet Pals workshops will be returning to Pets at Home this Easter, where children can get involved in some free crafts while learning about pet welfare and how to look after animals – educational and fun!
  • Kids eat free at Pizza Express: When you’re not snacking on chocolate eggs this Easter, treat your family to a meal at Pizza Express, where kids get a free Piccolo meal with every adult main. This includes Dough Balls, pizza, pasta, or salad, a dessert, and a Bambinoccino.

For more information and to plan your Easter trip to Fort Kinnaird, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/ 

Celebrate the build-up to Easter with limited edition “Build-A-Burger” offer

Luxford Burgers encourages kids to get creative with new menu

Easter is a time to gather all the family round the table. But if the thought of traditional roast lamb doesn’t appeal to your little ones, why not shake things up a bit this holiday and opt for a fun, customisable culinary experience that encourages the kids to get creative? 

Luxford Burgers is celebrating the build-up to Easter with a special Build-A-Burger offer. For a limited time only, children can grab an exclusive menu and design their dream burger. With a choice of beef, chicken or veggie patties, plus a combination of up to 12 toppings, this unmissable dining deal puts the kids firmly in control. 

From scrumptious smoked streaky bacon and classic crispy onions to mouth-watering mango salsa and chunky cheddar cheese, kids can get creative with their toppings of choice. Plus, they can colour in their personalised burger design while they wait for the award-winning chefs to cook and plate it up for them.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Luxford Burgers’ Executive Director, Alexander Galpin, said; “Experimenting with different flavour combinations is a great way for kids to learn about food in a fun and creative way.

“And what better way for them to do that than by stacking up a range of delicious toppings to create their own unique signature burger? We’re excited to see what they come up with!”

Each made-to-order Build-A-Burger costs just £8 and can be enjoyed at Luxford Burgers’ two Edinburgh locations at St. Leonard’s Street and Brandon Terrace.

Available for a limited time only, this exclusive Easter offer runs Monday – Thursday, 12-4pm, until Monday 21st April. Advanced booking is advised because this palate-pleasing offer is sure to prove popular!

Shortlist Announced for the 2025 World Championship Scotch Pie Awards

Celebrating 25 Years of Pie-Making Excellence, Scotland’s Top Bakers and Butchers Battle for the Ultimate Title

The heat is on in Scotland’s pie scene as the highly anticipated shortlist for the 2025 World Championship Scotch Pie Awards is officially unveiled. After a rigorous judging process, where 539 products were put to the ultimate taste test, 58 of Scotland’s best butchers, bakers, and pie makers have been shortlisted, standing out from 88 entrants vying for top honours.

Under the scrutiny of 50 expert judges, pies were assessed for taste, touch, appearance and smell across multiple categories, from the beloved Scotch Pie to Football Pies & Savouries, Macaroni Pie, Steak Pie, Sausage Roll, Hot Savoury, Vegetarian Savoury, Haggis Savoury, Bridie, and Apple Pies. This year also introduces two exciting new categories, Lighter Options and Retailer Pie Product of the Year, showcasing the industry’s continuous evolution and innovation.

The winner of the Scotch Pie category will be crowned WORLD CHAMPION, alongside all Best in Category winners, at a prestigious awards lunch on 10 May 2025 at the Hilton Glasgow.

Scottish Bakers, the trade association championing Scotland’s bakery sector, has proudly organised this annual competition for a quarter of a century, shining a spotlight on the skill and dedication of the nation’s best pie makers.

To mark its 25th anniversary, the organisation has launched the ‘Pieoneers’ campaign, celebrating the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation that drives Scotland’s iconic pie industry forward.

Lesley Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Bakers, said: “This year marks a truly special milestone as we celebrate 25 years of the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards. Over the past quarter-century, this competition has become the ultimate showcase for the craft, passion, and innovation of Scotland’s butchers, bakers, and pie makers. 

“Every pie tells a story: of heritage recipes passed down through generations, of new ideas pushing the boundaries, and of the sheer dedication to producing products that are loved by communities across the country.

“We look forward to crowning our winners in May and shining a well-deserved spotlight on the very best in our industry.”

Since its launch in 1999, the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards has set the gold standard for Scotland’s pie industry, providing a platform to honour the finest craftsmanship and commitment to tradition while embracing innovation.

The 2025 World Championship Scotch Pie Awards would not be possible without strategic partner BAKO Group, Diamond Sponsor, Carr’s Flour and our valued sponsors: Andrew Ingredients, Dalziel Group, DMD (2000) Ltd, Fleming Howden, National Food & Drink Training, Reformul8, Reiser, Rondo, Sure Recruitment, TRKR and Ulrick & Short.

The full list of companies who have been shortlisted is:

  • Aldi
  • Ann Davidsons Butchers Ltd
  • Ashers Bakery Ltd
  • Aulds Bakeries Limited
  • Bald Baker
  • Ballards Butchers 
  • Bayne’s the Family Bakers
  • Beefcake Cafe
  • Belford Butchers
  • Boghall Butchers
  • Brownings the Bakers
  • CAFEV8
  • CC’s Kitchen
  • Cooper Quality Butcher Limited
  • D H Robertson
  • D.G Lindsay & Son
  • David Stein Butchers
  • David Brownings
  • Dunbar Community Bakery
  • Fisher & Donaldson
  • Forsyths of Peebles
  • Gillespies Family Butchers
  • Goodfellow and Steven
  • Grierson Bros 
  • H&S Milne
  • Hame Bakery
  • Harry Gow Bakery
  • Irvines Ltd
  • J & H Cairns Quality Family Butchers
  • J & W Aitken Butcher (TJ Alloa Ltd)
  • J Gillespies & Sons Ltd
  • J M Bakery
  • James Pirie & Son
  • Keptie Bakery LTD 
  • Kinnaird Butcher Shop & Deli
  • Lees Takeaway & Coffee Shop
  • Macleans Highland Bakery Ltd
  • Mathieson Butchers
  • McCaskies Butcher & Cafe
  • McGhee’s Family Bakers
  • Murrays Bakers
  • Nicoll’s Rosebank Bakery
  • Pars Foods Ltd
  • Pastel Bakery
  • Pie Sports Ltd
  • Rendalls Online Butcher
  • Saltire Patisserie Ltd.
  • Strachan Craft Butchers
  • Stuart’s Bakers and Butchers
  • Sugar and Spice
  • The Apple Pie Bakery
  • The Cumbrae Butcher
  • The Kandy Bar Bakery
  • The Little Bakery
  • W F Stark
  • Walkers Bonbon 1 Limited
  • Wee COOK
  • Wrights Butchers

For more information, visit scotchpieawards.com.

Scotmid Leven Street wins Crime Prevention Retailer of the Year

Scotmid Coop’s Leven Street store in Edinburgh has been recognised as the Crime Prevention Retailer of the Year at The Convenience Awards 2025, for its proactive and innovative approach to tackling retail crime.

Faced with rising levels of theft, particularly of spirits, Scotmid took decisive action to protect its staff, customers, and business. Spirits were relocated behind the kiosk to mitigate theft risks, but to maintain customer convenience, the store introduced pictorial sleeves on the original shelves, allowing shoppers to browse the full range.

This strategic move led to a 40% reduction in spirit theft over 12 months, without impacting sales. Due to its success, this initiative has since been rolled out to other stores facing similar challenges.

Beyond product security, Scotmid has invested in cutting-edge crime prevention measures, including:

  • Online incident reporting – enabling staff to log thefts, attempted thefts, and antisocial behaviour directly to the Scotmid Security Support Team for immediate action.
  • Intelligence-driven Security Support Team – a dedicated unit that analyses incident reports, liaises with law enforcement, and prioritises security efforts based on real-time data.
  • Body-worn cameras – introduced in higher-risk stores, resulting in a 10% reduction in violent incidents and acting as a deterrent against repeat offenders.
  • Advanced CCTV analytics – being developed to identify suspicious activity in real-time and integrate with Scotmid’s central monitoring system, enhancing staff response capabilities.

Debbie MacDonald, Lead Profit Protection Manager at Scotmid, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this award, which reflects the dedication of our teams in making our stores safer.

“By implementing smart, intelligence-led security measures, we have not only reduced crime but also created a safer environment for colleagues and customers. We remain committed to enhancing our crime prevention strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats.”