Tag: food and drink

Famed Old Town Pub turns Five on Burns Weekend

Following five years of nationwide success, The Piper’s Rest in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town is celebrating its fifth birthday on Burns weekend by inviting their loyal fans for a night of live music, and the chance to win Scottish-themed prizes including a VIP day at the Six Nations plus a whole keg of Tennent’s Lager.   

Edinburgh pub-lovers rejoice as The Piper’s Rest celebrate their fifth year in business by hosting a huge party to say thank you to their loyal customers.

Located just off the Royal Mile, the pub opened just before the global pandemic, and has maintained a devoted fan base throughout the last five years by championing traditional Scottish produce and supporting local live music. 

Over the last five years The Piper’s Rest’s welcoming reputation and high-quality service has earned the pub one of the top-rated spots on Trip Advisor’s ‘Best Bars & Pubs in Edinburgh’ and even caught the eye of the Come Dine With Me: The Professionals producers where the pub not only starred but was victorious in Season 2 Episode 20. 

Friday 24th January will be an open-to-all night of traditional Scottish celebration as customers will toast to Burns weekend and raise a glass to an outstanding five years for The Piper’s Rest.

Lucky locals will have the chance to win two platinum Six Nations tickets to see Scotland host Wales at Murrayfield, including breakfast at Piper’s, transport to the game, and then dinner and a party back at Piper’s afterwards.

The night will also see a tasting from Scottish moonshine brand Highland Moon and a prize-draw to win a whole keg of Tennent’s Lager. 

An advocate for Edinburgh’s live music scene, The Piper’s Rest is one of the only pubs in the city to host different local artists 7-nights-a-week. Regular appearances from cult favourites such as Acoustic David and Ted Christopher have made the venue a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. 

Commenting on the fifth birthday, Frazer Henderson, General Manager at The Piper’s Rest, said: “When we opened Piper’s, we had the vision to utilise the best Scottish produce available, the best local live music out there, and serve customers with a smile on our face.

“Five years on, the welcoming, warming nature of the pub is what makes us proud. We can’t thank our loyal locals enough for making The Piper’s Rest what it is. Here’s to the next five years!”  

Merchant Leisure owns bars & restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Their speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street and inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, was recently shortlisted for a prestigious design award by the British Institute of Interior Design. 

Most recently the bar and restaurant group took over Gordon’s Trattoria after a 43-year ownership as the sixth venue to be listed under the Merchant Leisure umbrella, which plans to continue serving authentic Italian cuisine for now in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. 

The Piper’s Rest is located just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with a menu consisting entirely of Scottish favourites, using recipes passed down from parents & grandparents, with a modern twist – “Hearty, warming, traditional and comforting.”

Take 5 Tuesdays at PCHP

If you’d like to know more about healthy, sustainable and affordable food that is also DELICIOUS, then this is the group to come along to.

Anyone living in the area is welcome to join Sally on Tuesdays at 10am for this relaxed but fun activity.

We’ll start preparing and cooking from 10am, then at around midday we can either sit and enjoy the food together, or you can pack it up and take it away!

Edinburgh pizza restaurant serves up treat with first lunch menu

Edinburgh pizza restaurant Fired Dough is serving up a delicious new treat for customers with its first lunch menu.

The Lothian Road eatery opened its doors four months ago, promising to bring the ‘rich flavours of Naples’ to the city.

The traditional menu features a variety of classic hand-made woodfired pizzas using Neapolitan-style dough, which has been left to prove for up to 48 hours.

Now customers can enjoy a slice of the action at lunchtime with the new menu launching on Monday (January 20).

As well as the usual variety of antipasti and 10” pizzas, among the highlights of the menu are panuozzo sandwiches. These are pizza breads folded over with fillings such as prosciutto, buratta and rocket; pulled chicken, fior de latte mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes; or roasted vegetables with tomato pesto, rocket salad and fior di latte mozzarella.

Lunches are available in the 40-seater restaurant as well as takeaways from noon-5pm, seven days a week, with two courses costing £11.95 and three courses £13.95.

The new menu has been crafted “with passion and precision using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients”, according to owner and head chef Vinu Murugan, who is hoping to appeal to the busy office scene in that area of the city as well as the passing tourist trade.

“I’m really pleased to be able to expand our culinary offerings to the people of Edinburgh.

“We took our time to design what we think will be a great lunchtime menu and I’m sure our customers are going to love it!”

‘Murder on the Midnight Express’ returns to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time only

  • Somewhere by Nico is calling for all detectives as it brings back its sell-out Murder on the Midnight Express cocktail experience, inspired by the classic game of suspense
  • Running for a limited time only, the menu will be available at Somewhere by Nico in Edinburgh at Charlotte Lane from 8th January – to 2nd February 2025
  • 0% alcohol options are also available, providing new ways to enjoy the experience without compromise

Back by popular demand, Murder on the Midnight Express is making its highly anticipated return to Somewhere by Nico in for a limited time only. From 8th January — 2nd February, this thrilling cocktail experience invites guests to step into a world of mystery, inspired by the classic game of suspense.

As the train pulls back into Somewhere by Nico, guests will be immersed into the exhilarating journey to solve the mystery of who shot Gustave Laroche. For £45 per person, the five-course cocktail menu takes participants on a flavourful and intriguing ride, with each sip revealing a new clue.

For those seeking an extra twist, an optional bonus cocktail provides an additional hint to elevate the detective experience.

Perfect for a new year outing with friends or family, Murder on the Midnight Express is an experience like no other – combining captivating storytelling, exceptional cocktails, and an immersive mystery to solve. With 0% alcohol options available, there’s something for everyone at Somewhere by Nico – without compromising on taste.

This limited-time menu will be available at both Somewhere by Nico Edinburgh (39a Charlotte Lane) and Somewhere by Nico Glasgow (358 Byres Road).

Limited-Time Offer
Guests are encouraged to book early to secure their seat in January with a limited-time offer at just £30pp (saving £15pp).

Early bird bookings for can be made here

Whether for a friend, loved one, or a treat for yourself, Murder on the Midnight Express is the perfect gift that provides an unforgettable experience to share.

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six by Nico, commented: “We’re thrilled to bring back Murder on the Midnight Express to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time. This unique cocktail journey blends mystery, adventure, and creative storytelling to offer our guests an experience that goes beyond just drinks.

“We can’t wait to welcome guests as they put their detective skills to the test and solve the mystery of Gustave Laroche’s murder. With a carefully crafted five-course cocktail journey, plus 0% alcohol options, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information about Somewhere by Nico and to secure your booking, please visit here

Scotland trails behind as nationwide trends highlight growing shift toward plant-based diets

  • A new survey of over 10,000 people, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of The Vegan Society, shows that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%. 
  • Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets in some way. 
  • Animal welfare is the leading reason people choose to go vegan or plant-based, with 57% of respondents identifying it as one of their primary motivations. This is followed closely by concerns about physical health (52%) and the environment (48%). 

New research from The Vegan Society reveals that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%. This marks a notable gap, as Britain’s evolving dietary habits reflect the growing appeal of ethical and sustainable food choices. 

Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets, spanning vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, and other plant-forward lifestyles. This includes approximately 2 million people (3% of the population) who follow vegan or plant-based diets, and an additional 4% who identify as vegetarian, indicating a broad, collective movement toward more mindful and sustainable eating habits. 

The research reveals regional variations in the adoption of vegan and plant-based diets across the UK. London, the North East, and the South West emerge as hotspots, with 4% of their populations identifying as either vegan or plant-based, above the national average of 3%. In contrast, regions such as Scotland, Wales and the East Midlands report the lowest levels, with only 2% of residents following these diets. 

The data also highlights key demographic trends. Younger generations are at the forefront of this shift, with those aged 16-44 being twice as likely to follow a vegan lifestyle as older age groups, signaling a strong momentum for continued growth in this lifestyle. Women are more likely than men to adopt vegan or plant-based diets, with 3.60% of women identifying as such compared to 1.98% of men. 

Commenting on the findings, Claire Ogley, Head of Campaigns, Policy and Research at The Vegan Society, said: “These results reveal a remarkable transformation in attitudes toward veganism and plant-based living across Britain.

“It’s inspiring to see younger generations leading the way, with a growing number of people adopting more sustainable and compassionate lifestyles for a variety of reasons, from health to the environment to animal welfare.” 

The Vegan Society’s research underscores a commitment shared by millions to reducing the impact of human consumption on animals and the planet. As awareness grows, regions including Scotland will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food and lifestyle choices in the UK. 

For more information on veganism, visit The Vegan Society’s website.  

A festive risotto with purpose

Forget bland winter meals. This season, a vibrant risotto is bringing local produce and community spirit to your plate, straight from the kitchens of Ten Hill Place Hotel. The secret ingredient? Vegetables sourced directly from charity Cyrenians’ weekly veg boxes, proving that great food starts with great connections.

Cyrenians operates an organic farm in West Lothian and all money raised from the sale of their organic produce goes directly to fund their work tackling the causes and consequences of homelessness.

Executive Chef Dominik Kawalec, a 26-year culinary veteran who traded his native Poland for Edinburgh’s food scene, and rising star Junior Sous Chef Morgan Dow have crafted a dish that’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of local agriculture.

Their candied beetroot risotto transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a winter warmer that packs serious flavour:

Ingredients

· 1 leek, finely chopped (for leek hay) 

· 1 onion, finely chopped

· 2-3 cloves of garlic

· 1 cup risotto rice (Arborio recommended)

· 1 sprig each of thyme and rosemary

· ½ cup white wine

· 1-2 bay leaves

· Salt and pepper to taste

· 100g Parmesan cheese

· 2 tbsp cooking oil

· 4 cups vegetable stock

· Beetroots for pickling and puree

Preparation

Pickled Beetroots

  • Combine white wine vinegar, sugar, water, and black pepper
  • Pickle beetroots in this mixture to add a tangy dimension to the dish

Leek Hay

  • Julienne the leek
  • Deep fry until crispy, creating a delicate, crunchy garnish

Beetroot Puree

  • Roast red beetroots in tin foil
  • Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme
  • Blitz with apple juice, sugar, port, and red wine
  • Creates a rich, complex base for the risotto

Cooking Method

  1. Fry onion and garlic until translucent
  2. Add Arborio rice and deglaze with white wine
  3. Gradually add vegetable stock, stirring continuously
  4. When rice is nearly cooked, incorporate beetroot puree
  5. Finish with pickled beetroots and crispy leek hay
  6. Garnish with goat cheese and Parmesan

Every Wednesday, Cyrenians offers fresh, organic veg boxes for pickup at Café 1505, available in small and regular sizes through weekly or fortnightly subscriptions.

By choosing these veg boxes, you’re doing more than preparing a delicious meal—you’re supporting their important work to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness and connecting with the vibrant food ecosystem of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh restaurant group acquires popular Italian restaurant

Gordon’s Trattoria, a cherished Italian gem situated on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, has been acquired by Merchant Leisure.

Gordon Scott, who opened the restaurant in 1982, recently announced his retirement and has sold the venue for an undisclosed fee to his close friend Jim Tullis, owner of Merchant Leisure. 

Merchant Leisure have announced they wish to keep the restaurant as it is for the time being, and continue ‘serving up authentic Italian cuisine made with passion and the finest ingredients.’ Locals and tourists alike have long enjoyed the restaurant’s authentic cuisine and prominent location, offering customers ‘the heart of Italy in the heart of Edinburgh’. 

Classic Italian dishes populate the menu including ‘Tagliatelle Reale’ – plump King Prawns paired with delicate asparagus and cherry tomatoes, simmered in olive oil, garlic, white wine and parsley. A range of pizzas such as the ‘Primavera’ – topped with parma ham and a balsamic glaze drizzle – are joined by much-loved sharing options like ‘Focaccia’ and a selection of chicken-based dishes such as ‘Pollo Dianne’ – cooked in mushrooms, onions, French mustard and a brandy cream sauce.

Merchant Leisure owns bars & restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Their speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street and inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, was recently shortlisted for a prestigious design award by the British Institute of Interior Design. 

Commenting on the takeover, Arthur Mustard, Managing Director at Merchant Leisure Ltd, said: “We are very excited to announce our ownership of Gordon’s Trattoria.

“It’s such an honour to take over an Edinburgh establishment with such rich history and loyal customers. Our plan is to keep the venue as it is for now, serving authentic Italian food in the heart of Edinburgh.

“We look forward to welcoming new customers, as well as meeting the locals who make this restaurant so special.” 

Gordon’s Trattoria is the sixth venue to be listed under the Merchant Leisure umbrella and will continue serving authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. 

Who’s serving up at The Pitt?

Hello Pitt Peeps!

It’s less than two weeks until we’re officially fully open so make sure that date’s in your diary – Friday, 6th December – and be one of the first down to Granton to check us out. And if you’ve been wondering who’s going to be quenching your thirst and filling your belly, our official Resident foodies will be:

Choola: Nepalese street food with a Scottish twist 
Fire Bowl: East Asian style street food 
Buffalo Truck: Delicious fried chicken with all the added delights 
Social Bite Does dessert: amazing sweet treats and lots of custard 
Lazeez: Authentic Lebanese delights (fully halal) and shish
Pulp Friction: Seasonal fresh fruit infused drinks, from mulled sangrias to frozen margaritas 
Barney’s and Newbarns: supplying the best locally brewed beers
Serving up Williams and Johnson coffee, savoury and sweets will be Long Shot Coffee. 

Don’t forget, The Pitt also has two saunas from Soul Water Sauna (booking opening soon), a weekly local produce market from Granton Community Garden, community and family areas, a co-working space and one of the best views in Edinburgh across the Firth of Forth. 

December opening hours: 
Friday 6th: 5pm-10pm
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th: 8am-10pm 
Then weekly until 29th: Thursday to Sunday: 8am-10pm
Hogmanay, Tuesday 31st: 8am-2am – family friendly entertainment with free entry all day to The Pitt Market. Please note, the Hogmanay Extravaganza is a separate, ticketed event which is suitable for 16+ only. 

Entry to The Pitt Market is from the Granton Promenade. The Market will always be free to enter and is family and dog friendly every single day. 


Retail / Lifestyle Opportunity

Perfect for anyone who wants to trade and be part of a supporting community of entrepreneurs looking to kick start their business or any pop up ideas. 

More info HERE

We can’t wait to see you very soon! 

The Pitt team 

Re-igniting magical memories with nostalgia at Six by Nico

  • Running for six weeks, this latest menu provides nostalgic feelings to transport you back to a simpler time. 
  • The menu will run in both of the capital’s Six by Nico locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street from 16 December 2024 to 26 January 2025 – with bookings starting at £44 per person

Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has unveiled its latest six-course concept, transporting guests back to the good old days with déjà vu food that serves a taste of forgotten flavours with every bite.

Taking inspiration from CEO and Founder Nico Simeone’s childhood favourites and his families festive traditions, the latest concept menu is full of creative twists on old school classic flavours that will never fade.

The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 16th December 2024 to 26th January 2025, using timeless tastes to help guests forget about being an adult for a while.

The menu includes the following dishes:

Snacks – Space Raiders

Crushed Baby Potato, Pickled Onion, Garlic Emulsion & Fermented Melon Hot Sauce

Course 1 – Blockbuster

Aged Comte, Hazelnut & Serrano Ham “Taco” 

Course 2 – Super Mario

Roasted Maitake, Smoked Celeriac, Cep Gnocchi, Lovage, Truffle & Sherry Cappuccino

Course 3 – “Let’s go camping!” 

Smoked Pork Sausage, Aged Belly, Red Pepper Romesco, Nasturtium & Almond 

Course 4 – Fish Fingers 

Barbecue Coley, Miso Carrot & Lobster Emulsion served with Crispy Fish Finger, Shellfish Bisque & Salted Kumquat

Course 5 – Guess Who? 

A classic game inspires our dish, but can you Guess Who?

Course 6 – “SNOWBALL FIIIGHT!!”

Coconut Parfait, Lime Gel, 55% Chocolate, Yoghurt “Snow”

Vegetarian

Snacks – Space Raiders

Crushed Baby Potato, Pickled Onion, Garlic Emulsion & Fermented Melon Hot Sauce

Course 1 – Blockbuster

Aged Comte, Hazelnut & Quince “Taco”

Course 2 – Super Mario

Roasted Maitake, Smoked Celeriac, Cep Gnocchi, Lovage, Truffle & Sherry Cappuccino

Course 3 – “Let’s go camping!”

Smoked Potato, Red Pepper Romesco, Nasturtium &  Almond

Course 4 – Fish Fingers

Barbecue Hispi Cabbage, Miso Carrot & Vadouvan served with Smoked Onion Foam & Carrot Cromesquis

Course 5 – Guess Who?

A classic game inspires our dish, but can you Guess Who?

Course 6 – “SNOWBALL FIIIGHT!!”

Coconut Parfait, Lime Gel, 55% Chocolate, Yoghurt “Snow”

For £44, guests will be able to experience the old school flavours of Nostalgia, with a matching wine pairing from £30 per person or cocktail pairing from £40 per person. Start the experience with the snack selection for only £10 per person.   

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “Our final menu of 2024 and the first of 2025 pays homage to nostalgia, inviting guests on a journey through flavours that evoke personal memories.

“Inspired by reflections on my childhood, it draws on moments from an era spent watching films, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors with friends.

“While New Year often focuses on resolutions, this menu celebrates traditions and revisits the timeless magic of Christmas through familiar and comforting tastes.”