Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has introduced its latest six-course instalment, taking customers on an adventure full of magical flavours where each bite sends your taste buds into technicolour.
Inspired by the iconic story from The Wizard of Oz, customers will begin their journey on the yellow brick road, travelling through a bewitching menu where each bite leads you closer to the Emerald City.
The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 4th November to 15th December where customers will be immersed in this magical culinary experience and transported to the Land of Oz.
Baby Aubergine, Coal Emulsion, Red Pepper Ketchup, Kohlrabi & Tarragon
Course 5 – ‘The Wicked Witch’
Barbecue Leek, Burnt Onion & Black Garlic Ketchup
Parsley Risotto, Confit Garlic & Pickled Shallot
Course 6 – ‘Emerald City’
Apple Cremeux, Honey Mousseline, Yoghurt Sorbet & Lemon Gel
For £44, guests will be able to experience the magical flavours from the Land of Oz, with a matching wine pairing from £33.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “The Land of Oz menu is an exciting journey for us. We’ve been exploring this magical world for a while, and guided by guest feedback and our passion for storytelling, we’ve crafted each dish to immerse diners in Oz’s enchanting tale.
“We’re thrilled to offer diners in Edinburgh with a unique experience that pushes the boundaries of what Six by Nico can bring to the table.”
Land of Oz menu bookings can be made via the website:
M&S takes the crown for the most winners in this year’s Good Food Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, scooping seven of the 21 categories, with Waitrose winning five categories.
Over 185 products from 13 supermarkets were blind-tasted, and anonymously rated by a panel of expert judges overseen by an independent adjudicator, winners include Morrisons £3.25 pigs in blankets, and Asda £5 mulled wine.
The UK’s number one food media brand, Good Food, has announced the results of its Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, judging the best festive foods from 13 supermarkets across 21 categories, from smoked salmon to Christmas cake, pigs in blankets and mulled wine.
To arrive at the winners list, over 185 products were blind-tasted by Good Food’s expert panel, overseen by an independent adjudicator. All packaging was removed and food prepared and cooked following pack instructions and presented by an independent home economist. The judges submitted comments and a score out of 10 for each product in the category via anonymous online judging forms.
The full results are in the iconic Good Food Christmas issue which is on sale now with a “Make Christmas memories” message, packed with over 90 thoroughly tested recipes for memorable celebrating, entertaining and gift-giving, plus features on reducing food waste and tips for using up leftovers.
Of the thirteen supermarkets, M&S won the most, scooping seven wins out of the 21 categories, including Best cranberry sauce and Best classic mince pies.
Waitrose was awarded five wins including: Best turkey crown, Best Christmas cake and Best Christmas pudding. Asda and Aldi tied for third place with three wins each, while Morrisons won the coveted Best pigs in blankets category and Co-op Best showstopper dessert.
Lily Barclay, Content Director, Good Food, says: “Good Food celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, which means 35 years of Christmas memories.
“Our iconic Christmas issue will help create more memories with reinventions of retro classics and ideas for meaningful home-baked Christmas gifts.
“The Good Food team of experts started testing in August for the mammoth Good Food Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, creating the ultimate guide to festive food buys.
“This Christmas the supermarkets have outdone themselves with the range and quality on offer, and our selection of winners will help save time in the kitchen, so you can focus on celebrating the festive season with family and friends..”
The results of the Good Food Christmas Taste Awards 2024, with judges’ comments:
Starters
Best smoked salmon Winner: Booths Strong Oak Smoked Scottish Salmon, 200g (£8.00)
Judges’ comments: “This has nice thick slices with a classic, crowd-pleasing smoked flavour that would work well in sandwiches.”
Best hot canapé Winner: M&S Collection Barber’s Extra Mature Cheddar & Ham Hock Scone, 290g (£7.50)
Judges’ comments: “The scone has a great flavour and a lovely, crispy texture. The ham works beautifully with the creamy roux and buttery, cheesy notes – it’s easy to eat and perfect for nibbles with drinks.”
Judges’ comments: “This juicy turkey has excellent flavour, complemented by the herby chestnut stuffing and a lovely saltiness from the bacon.”
Best alternative Christmas main Winner: Aldi Specially Selected Wagyu Wing Rib, 1.8-2.8kg (£24.99 per kg)
Judges’ comments: “This impressive-looking joint would make a fantastic showstopper. The meat has a good texture, and the outside sears well.”
Best gammon Winner: Aldi Specially Selected Sugar Baked Crackling Gammon Joint, £18.99
Judges’ comments: “A clear winner for the judges – this centrepiece gammon is complete with crunchy crackling and juicy, tender meat.”
Best pigs in blankets Winner: Morrisons The Best pigs in blankets, 210g (£3.25)
Judges’ comments: “Caramelised onions give these a touch of sweetness, with pleasing crispy bacon and good texture to the sausage-meat.”
Best cranberry sauce Winner: M&S Cranberry Sauce (fresh), 400g (£3.25)
Judges’ comments: “This cranberry sauce has a nice sweetness, a distinct cranberry flavour and a pleasing tartness. It’s perfect for making sandwiches with your Christmas leftovers.”
Best vegetarian main Joint winner: Waitrose Ultimate Plant-based Festive Wellingtons, pack of two (£7.50)
Judges’ comments: “This vegetarian mushroom wellington has a flavourful umami kick, crispy pastry, lovely mushroom and thyme notes, and warming gravy.”
Judges’ comments: “This hearty galette impressed the judges: it is incredibly flavoursome, enjoyably cheesy and has plenty of veg.”
Best vegan main Joint winner: Tesco Finest Roasted Vegetable & Cranberry Star, 340g (£6)
Judges’ comments: “This attractive centrepiece features beautifully nutty and umami flavours with notes of thyme, marjoram and sweet onion. It has buttery, flaky pastry and festive star shapes.”
Joint winner: Aldi Plant Menu Vegan No Turkey Crown, 490g (£4.99) This no-turkey crown does a great job of replicating the texture of meat quite well. It would go down extremely well with roast potatoes and a generous helping of gravy.
Festive desserts
Best Christmas cake Winner: Waitrose No.1 Hand-Decorated Matured Rich Fruit Cake, 1.5kg (£18.50)
Judges’ comments: “This Christmas cake has a generous amount of marzipan, a slightly crumbly texture – which guests might take as homemade – and a pretty, impressive appearance with good, solid icing.”
Best alternative Christmas cake Winner: Asda Ginger and Caramel Snow Cake, serves 16 (£12)
Judges’ comments: “The gingerbread and caramel cake captures the festive spirit beautifully. Its appearance is charming, both as a whole and when sliced, making it an attractive addition to any holiday spread. The cake boasts a strong gingerbread flavour that is nicely balanced, and the sponge is wonderfully soft and spongey.”
Judges’ comments: “This Christmas pudding has a rich flavour, a pretty fluted shape, lots of cherries and whole almonds, and a nice spiced citrussy note.”
Judges’ comments: “This golden sponge crown boasts a lovely gingerbread flavour with warming ginger and cinnamon notes, complemented by a rich caramel sauce and toffee drizzle. It looks impressive, is easy to serve, and has a homemade, festive taste.”
Best trifle Winner: M&S Sticky Toffee Trifle, 1kg (£15)
Judges’ comments: “This trifle features a delightful blend of caramel, gingerbread and butterscotch flavours, beautifully paired with whipped cream and luscious custard. The layers are clear and well-textured, with attractive toppings.”
Best free-from dessert Winner: M&S Chocolate & Orange, Fruit & Nut Brownie, 630g (£12.50)
Judges’ comments: “This gluten-free brownie tastes like it is made from quality chocolate, and the hint of orange isn’t overbearing.”
Festive bakes
Best classic mince pies Winner: M&S Collection Mince Pies, pack of six (£4)
Judges’ comments: “These classic mince pies have a beautiful, unique design with a well-patterned top, buttery pastry with a good mouthfeel, and a nicely spiced filling with discernible fruit.”
Best flavoured mince pies Winner: Morrisons The Best Cherry Bakewell Mince Pies, pack of four (£2.75)
Judges’ comments: “These Bakewell-flavoured mince pies feature a pretty flaked almond topping and a well-balanced frangipane that’s not too sweet. The mincemeat is moist and fruity, creating a pleasant hybrid of a classic mince pie with a nutty, crumbly twist.”
Best gluten-free mince pies Winner: Waitrose Mince Pies, pack of four (£2.90)
Judges’ comments: “These gluten-free mince pies have a nice texture that holds together well without crumbling too much.”
Best vegan mince pie Winner: Asda Free From 4 Mince Pies 220g (£2)
Judges’ comments: “These vegan mince pies have a beautiful, uniform appearance with a simple star decoration and feature a lovely, juicy filling. The pastry is crisp with a good crumbly texture and a nice sugary top, making them a delightful treat.”
Best biscuit tin
Winner: M&S Collection Shortbread Tin, 400g (£10) Judges’ comments: “These Christmas shortbreads are melt-in-the-mouth buttery, with a good salty hit and a rich, milky chocolate coating. Their soft, crumbly texture makes them a true winner.”
Best mulled wine Winner: Asda Extra Special Mulled Wine, 75cl (£5)
Judges’ comments: “This mulled wine offers a delightful boozy flavour with a rich ‘mulled’ quality, making it a standout choice for a sweet, spiced experience.
All prices correct at time of publishing.
The Christmas issue of Good Food is out now, get your copy in store or order direct from www.MagsDirect.co.uk
Scottish business, community and political representatives join Lumo to celebrate Edinburgh Cocktail Week 2024
Chris Murray, MP for Edinburgh East & Musselburgh and Dr Scott Arthur, MP for Edinburgh South West joined Scottish business leaders and members of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce on Friday at Lumo’s sustainable cocktail event to stir-up support for Edinburgh Cocktail Week.
In addition to supporting Edinburgh Cocktail Week, the event sought to mix mocktails and connect key decision makers within the city and beyond, to serve-up cocktails and conversations around driving environmental and economic growth within local communities.
The event, held at Juniper Bar within Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street was hosted by open access train operator, Lumo, which provides popular rail services connecting Edinburgh with Newcastle and London along the East Coast Main Line.
The event was in collaboration with Flawsome! Drinks, a company committed to sustainability by repurposing surplus ‘wonky’ fruit for soft drinks and sold onboard Lumo’s fleet of fully electric trains.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “We’re proud to support Edinburgh Cocktail Week, an event that not only showcases the city’s renowned arts and dynamic culture scene but also promotes sustainable choices.
“We are also deeply committed to supporting the local communities we serve and are excited to have submitted plans to expand our services to Glasgow. This expansion will strengthen ties between two of Scotland’s key cities, fostering even greater opportunities for collaboration and a greener future.”
Attracting more than 25,000 visitors across 10 days, Edinburgh Cocktail Week showcases the city’s vibrant hospitality scene while significantly contributing to the local economy, something that Lumo aims to support through connecting customers along the East Coast route with the Scottish capital.
Dr Scott Arthur, MP for Edinburgh South West, said: “I am absolutely committed to the UK hitting its net zero targets whilst also growing the economy in a way which helps create a fairer society. Sustainable public transport links connecting Edinburgh to key economic centres, like those offered by Lumo, are a key part of that.
“Whether people are drinking cocktails or mocktails, Edinburgh Cocktail Week is also a great opportunity to help boost our tourist economy.
“I am proud that Edinburgh attracts people from far and wide, and after a route of beautiful views, arriving in the city’s heart by train will always mean that visitors are emotionally stirred, not shaken.”
Lumo’s partnership with Flawsome! Drinks began earlier this year, introducing a refreshing twist to Lumo’s onboard refreshments with juice’s made from ‘wonky’ and surplus fruit, offering passengers a guilt-free, eco-friendly choice.
The cocktails at the event all included juices supplied by the sustainable drinks company with a range of spirits.
The event was supported by a range of organisations from across Edinburgh and Scotland, including the Holyrood Distillery which distils the whisky served on Lumo’s services to and from Edinburgh.
Lumo is celebrating three years of running services this month and has an approach to customer service that’s far from old-fashioned, recently serving-up a 96% customer satisfaction score.
With over 100 venues participating in Edinburgh Cocktail Week this year, including bars, restaurants, and hotels, the event not only boosted footfall but also provided a platform for venues to increase staffing and manage the surge in demand.
In addition to the bars and restaurants benefitting through direct involvement with Edinburgh Cocktail Week, local hotels and short-term lets also see increased bookings, as the influx of visitors drives demand for accommodation, providing a boost to the hospitality sector and supporting the wider local economy during the 10-day event.
The partnership between Lumo and Flawsome! reflects both companies’ commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing food waste and encouraging responsible consumption. The collaboration exemplifies how businesses can work together to address environmental challenges in practical and creative ways.
Lumo was the first long-distance train operator to replace plastic bottles onboard with sustainable alternatives and was named ‘Green Innovation Business of the Year’ at the recent North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
The wait is over! Manahatta, the stylish bar and restaurant inspired by the glitz and glamour of New York City, is now officially open in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city centre, Manahatta brings a vibrant blend of cocktails, dining, and nightlife to Scotland’s capital.
The new venue on Rose Street showcases a stunning interior that blends modern aesthetics with glamorous touches that are designed to transport guests straight to the Big Apple. From the chic décor to indulgent food and drink menus, Manahatta is the perfect destination whether you’re looking for a lively brunch experience or a glam night out. The Edinburgh location will also debut an unforgettable ‘LIVE & LOUD Piano Night’ every Thursday where guests can enjoy live music, request songs and dance the night away.
When it comes to drinks, there is something for everyone, with £7 cocktails from Monday to Thursday and a menu brimming with endless options including the Diamonds are Forever sharer – a delicious mix of Bacardí Carta Blanca, watermelon, kiwi, cranberry, apple, and lime, served in a giant sparkling diamond, plus other signature drinks from the Six in The City collection.
As well as a selection of carefully created cocktails, prepare to feast on a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. From the NY Club Bagel and Karaage Chicken Bowl to the delectable Bao Buns and famed Steak Frites, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Manahatta’s legendary Boozy Brunch has also arrived in Edinburgh, and it’s not to be missed! Running until 8pm daily, this brunch bonanza includes six delightful drinks and dishes from the main menu, serving up the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. It’s the ultimate way to unwind, sing, dance, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Set across two floors the impressive new venue boasts art deco-inspired bars and bold lighting that channels New York realness. A stunning mirrored disco ball, reminiscent of Times Square’s famous ball drop, adds a touch of glamour and an elevated DJ booth looks over the sprawling dancefloor – setting the perfect scene for chic gatherings and unforgettable parties.
Manahatta Edinburgh is open seven days a week, with both dining and late-night options available. Bookings are now open, and reservations can be made via the official website or by calling the venue.
Martin Wolstencroft, CEO, Arc Inspirations said: “We are over the moon that our first official site in Scotland is now open and what better place to get the party started than in Edinburgh – the capital city.
“Manahatta is more than just a cocktail bar; it’s a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. We can’t wait to welcome Edinburgh locals and visitors to newest spot in town.”
Edinburgh’s Christmas all new Polar Ice Bar will open to the public from Monday 25 November on George Street in Edinburgh’s City Centre
Kept to a chilly -8°C, all walls, bars, tables and decor at this unique sensory experience are made from crystal clear ice using recycled rainwater – the glasses are pure ice as well!
Take a trip to the coolest bar in town before warming up at Edinburgh’s Christmas’ cosy food and drink spots
Edinburgh’s Christmas has today announced the coolest new bar in town, with the city’s first Ice Bar. Visitors are invited to take some time to chill this festive period, at the all-new Polar Ice Bar where tables, chairs and glasses are sculpted entirely from ice.
This unique pop-up bar experience created in partnership with Hamiltons Ice Sculptors and supporting partners Essential Edinburgh, will be located on George Street in Edinburgh’s City Centre and will be kept to a chilly -8°C. Visitors can stay cosy the whole time with warming jackets and gloves provided on arrival.
Inside the Polar Ice Bar, guests will enjoy delicious festive alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, served in an individual pre-carved ice glass, with your first drink included in entry ticket.
Visitors can also take in the bar’s beautiful, engraved ice walls and sculptures featuring winter forests and wildlife, providing the perfect insta-moment for friends and family with group bookings available.
Brand new for Edinburgh’s Christmas in 2024, the Polar Ice Bar is the perfect spot for a cool drink or two with friends, or a cool start to your Christmas party night-out! Warm-up afterwards in George Street’s Coorie Inn, a brand-new Edinburgh’s Christmas attraction hosting a programme of live music, events, and festive workshops, soon to be announced. There are also an incredible array of surrounding bars and restaurants to create the perfect festive night out.
Hamiltons Ice Sculptors’ expert artists will hand carve everything in the bar with sculptures made from crystal clear ice using recycled rainwater.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Polar Ice Bar is open to over 18s and bookable for 30-minute sessions via the edinburgh-christmas.com.
Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmassaid: “We are thrilled to present the Polar Ice Bar, a brand-new attraction for Edinburgh’s Christmas and the city that is guaranteed to get visitors in the festive spirit.
“Wrap-up warm and come join us for the coolest cocktail in town.”
Roddy Smith, Chief Executive and Director of Essential Edinburgh said: “The Polar Ice Bar will be a great new attraction for George Street.
“As a brand new concept for the city centre it will draw people in to experience something completely different, and then move on to enjoy a drink in our established ‘warm’ bars and restaurants.”
Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions are open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening dates and times available at the official website. For further information and to buy tickets, please go to edinburgh-christmas.com.
This autumn, experience the after-dark magic where disco meets modern-day elegance at Lady Libertine, as the subterranean venue launches its brand-new GREY GOOSE® Lates.
Taking over the stylish Edinburgh basement, this exclusive series of two intimate late-night parties promises electrifying performances, signature cocktails, and vibrant disco ambiance.
Kicking off the series just in time for All Hallows’ Eve on Thursday, 31st October from 7 PM until late, the alternative Halloween event will feature a live DJ set from the wildly unpredictable Billy Woods, known for his eclectic and bold beats that are sure to captivate the crowd.
Also supporting the evening is Craig Smith, adding his unique flair to what promises to be a chic, no-tricks Halloween filled with stacked disco tunes.
On Thursday, 21st November, the final GREY GOOSE® Lates event will showcase the smooth sounds of CC:Disco!, renowned for her feel-good sets and the self-proclaimed intergalactic vampire Kitty Kat, delivering an energising disco experience while indulging in Lady Libertine’s signature GREY GOOSE® cocktails.
For music lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike, GREY GOOSE® Lates at Lady Libertine offers the ultimate evening escape this autumn.
Guests to either event can enjoy a curated selection of cocktails and classic martini serves from Lady Libertine’s bar including: Starry Night – a refreshing signature sip with GREY GOOSE®, Briottet Banana, Aperol, Absinthe, and Raspberry, or Garden of Eden – a long spritz with GREY GOOSE®, Italicus, Limoncello, Absinthe andCremant.
A must try is the Strawberry Fields Forever mixed with GREY GOOSE®, Verjus, Strawberry & Basil Shrub, Basil Leaves, Soda, and Cremant for a fresh, fizzy finish. This exclusive cocktail menu runs until the end of November.
To buy a ticket to experience GREY GOOSE® Lates at Lady Libertine— head to https://ladylibertine.co.uk/whats-on/ Admission to each event is £10 and includes live DJ set entertainment and one cocktail.
Both events run from 7PM until 1AM at Lady Libertine on October 31st and November 21st.
Hectors in Stockbridge has officially reopened following an extensive 5 week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look.
The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include a new hand-carved wooden gantry, brand new furniture and fresh frontage colour scheme.
Hectors is renowned for its friendly and welcoming team, as well as the selection of comforting Scottish pub fayre. The pub itself takes its name from Sir James Hector, a Scottish-New Zealand geologist, naturalist, and surgeon who originated from Stockbridge in 1834.
Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and truffled oyster mushroom pie, classic fish and chips and delicious beef brisket burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts.
Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, British Gins and an exciting range of whisky.
Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Alex Bruce at Hectors said: ‘This is an exciting time, not only for Hectors, but for the people of Stockbridge. Our aim is simple, to serve delicious food, great drinks, and friendly service to all of our guests.
“Our fresh new look, matched with our welcoming team, will go hand in hand to provide Stockbridge with an excellent local pub where everyone is welcome.”
Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, several new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests.
Now open for bookings until 24th November, guests are invited to indulge in the new and thrilling cocktail experience inspired by the classic game of suspense.
Somewhere by Nico will now also welcome walk-ins and bar reservations, allowing guests to explore new cocktails and drinks.
Somewhere by Nico welcomes guests to step into the thrilling world of ‘Murder on the Midnight Express,’ the brand’s latest theme offering a truly unique and unforgettable cocktail experience inspired by the classic game of suspense.
Now open for bookings until 24th November, this gripping new theme invites guests in Edinburgh and Glasgow to test their detective skills and unravel the mystery aboard the Midnight Express.
The adventure kicks off with the shocking murder of Gustave Laroche, the esteemed chef of the train’s restaurant. Gustave, who had been enjoying a drink before his service, was tragically shot in his own kitchen. The culprit was careless, leaving behind a trail of clues for guests to discover and piece together in their quest to solve the crime.
Guests can expect each cocktail course to be served with Somewhere by Nico’s creativity and theatrical flair alongside an intriguing clue to help them solve the case. A diverse and intriguing cast of characters – each with ties to Gustave – and their own potential motives will be introduced to guests throughout the experience, with every cocktail taking them a step closer to unravelling the murder mystery.
For £45 per person, guests can enjoy a captivating storytelling evening featuring five cocktail courses. An optional bonus cocktail is available alongside an extra clue, enhancing the mystery-solving experience.
This immersive menu has been created with Scottish game designer, Rosalyn Meney, curating a bespoke murderous tale solved through cocktails. It is designed to get mind’s racing and truly delight the senses, offering a unique and memorable night out.
Rooted in the same ethos that made Six by Nico a beloved culinary destination, Somewhere by Nico has been created from a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences with a commitment to creativity & a goal to deliver an unmatched, unique experience every six weeks.
Much like the foundation, Somewhere by Nico will continue to surprise and delight guests with new themes every six weeks, featuring an inventive cocktail menu that invites guests to step into an immersive experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail tasting journey or turning a night out into an adventure, Somewhere offers something for everyone.
After the success of capturing the imagination of guests with its otherworldly cocktail experiences, Somewhere by Nico is now also welcoming walk-ins and bar reservations to explore their new cocktails and drinks, offering the discovery of the venue for all.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six Company said: “As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest cocktail experience at Somewhere by Nico featuring the captivating theme, ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’. We understand that today’s guests crave more than just a drink – they want an adventure & experience.
“We are dedicated to curating and delivering the best cocktail bar experience and as part of our offering, we’ll now also be welcoming walk-ins and bar reservations, allowing guests to discover the venue in new ways.
“I couldn’t think of a better way to bring this vision to life than with our next theme – ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’.”
Locals and American ex-pats alike invited to join in a communal meal to celebrate the holiday
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is excited to announce a special Thanksgiving Supper Club, offering a heartwarming gathering for guests to celebrate the season of gratitude with delicious food, festive ambiance, and meaningful social connection.
Available exclusively on Thanksgiving Day, 28th November, this event will feature a traditional Thanksgiving feast served family-style, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of home for US ex-pats, and offer locals the chance to enjoy the classic American holiday.
After a welcome glass of prosecco, guests will enjoy a variety of classic Thanksgiving sides, including creamy sweet potatoes, savoury stuffing, rich gravy, green bean casserole, mac & cheese, fresh-baked cornbread, and the star of the evening – a succulent roast turkey carved table-side. In the spirit of celebration, guests can enjoy two glasses of wine or bottles of lager to accompany their meal.
The meal will conclude with a decadent pumpkin pie for dessert, adding the perfect sweet note to a cosy evening.
The Supper Club experience will take place in a warm and inviting atmosphere, in a seasonally decorated private dining space. Guests can relax and enjoy a leisurely dining experience at table specially arranged to foster conversation and a sense of community. This incredible deal will be available for £75.55 a person, with three seatings throughout the day at 13:30, 16:30, and 19:30.
For solo guests looking for a special way to enjoy Thanksgiving, seating will be reserved in a semi-private dining room, offering a unique opportunity to meet new people and share stories while enjoying a festive, family-style meal together.
Guests looking for a more traditional restaurant experience for the holiday are encouraged to book in advance to enjoy a 2-Course Thanksgiving Menu, including a traditional roast turkey dinner and a slice of classic pumpkin pie, available for £33.50 per person.
General Manager Nick Chiverton, said, “We are thrilled to bring the warmth and tradition of Thanksgiving to our Edinburgh Cafe. This event is all about sharing great food and even better memories with family, friends, and fellow guests, and we look forward to welcoming everyone for this special celebration.”
Hawaii could soon be welcoming a new distillery after a postgraduate student at Scotland’s Heriot-Watt University won a prestigious entrepreneurial award.
Canadian student Ethan Wang, 42, wants to open a new distillery on Hawaii’s scenic volcanic island of Maui and said he was in “total shock” after winning cash and support from an industry membership organisation to help make his idea happen.
The award, called the Worshipful Company of Distillers’ Entrepreneurship Award, is designed to help students apply their science in the real world and is run jointly by Heriot-Watt’s respected International Centre for Brewing and Distilling (ICBD) and The Worshipful Company of Distillers, a historic trade association in the City of London.
“Maui is an ocean paradise and is one of the finest places in the world to get botanical ingredients and clean flavours,” said Ethan, who is currently studying online with ICBD to complete a Master of Science degree in Brewing and Distilling.
“Winning this award was such great news to wake up to in Hawaii. It will help me buy additional expensive tools for flavour extraction – and having an experienced industry body to guide me with my planning will be a huge help.”
Ethan is originally from Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, where he studied a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Victoria. He first visited Hawaii during his early career in accountancy and finance and got married there in 2011. Since then, he has visited Maui, the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, every year.
Ethan says the £5,000 prize money from the award is an important addition to the personal savings he is investing to open the distillery, which will produce spirits including gin, vodka, blended whisky, Japanese shochu – a spirit typically distilled from ingredients including rice, barley and sweet potatoes – and Korean soju, also traditionally made from rice.
Called the Kamehameha Distillery, Ethan’s distillery will be based in Kula, a scenic rural area of Maui on the slopes of a dormant volcano called Haleakalā.
“The site offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush, rolling hills of upcountry Maui,” Ethan says. “Hawaii’s tropical climate is warm and humid, but up in Kula, the air is cooler and crisper, especially in the evenings.
“This variation in temperature, along with the volcanic soil and the sea air, has a profound influence on the ingredients we use, from the hibiscus flowers to the sea grapes. The clean, fresh environment helps preserve the natural flavours, giving our products a unique and authentic taste that truly reflects the land they come from.”
Kamehameha’s products are designed to appeal particularly to American and Japanese markets. But Ethan’s longer-term vision is to expand globally and to create opportunities locally in Hawaii.
“Supporting the island’s economy is vital – and I want to create meaningful opportunities for the local community, including creating jobs and fostering partnerships with local farmers and suppliers,” he says.
“In the long term, I see Kamehameha Distillery expanding beyond Hawaii and introducing the world to unique, authentic Hawaiian flavours. International expansion is a goal, as I want our spirits to be enjoyed globally, not just as beverages but as an experience of Hawaiian culture.”
Heriot-Watt University has been researching brewing and distilling since 1903 and formed the International Centre for Brewing and Distilling in 1990 to meet the needs of the brewing, distilling and malting industries worldwide.
Its degrees prepare students to enter the malting, brewing or distilling industries and cover a broad range of subjects including brewing and distilling science, chemical engineering, business studies and production management.
The centre’s on-campus facilities in Edinburgh include a 200-litre capacity brewery, a mobile mashing unit and cereal cooker, a mash filter, fermentation vessels, stills and a laboratory.
Dr David Jenkins, Assistant Professor in Brewing and Distilling at ICBD and also an MSc programme leader, said: “Ethan’s plans for his Hawaiian distillery are incredibly exciting and it’s fantastic to help fund his vision.
“Jumping from a science degree to the real world can be challenging – so our focus is on helping students apply what they learn to their own entrepreneurial ideas. There are always new opportunities in the drinks industry – and we look forward to seeing Ethan’s business grow.”
Lorne MacKillop of the Worshipful Company of Distillers – the company’s ‘Master’ this year and figurehead – has spent 47 years in the wines and spirits sector. He said: “Education is an important part of our role and we support a number of awards and scholarships in the science of distilling.
“These are designed to help students achieve excellence in their craft and apply their knowledge to real-world businesses and innovations. We were hugely impressed with Ethan’s submission for our Heriot-Watt University award and are delighted to support him in his new venture.”
The Worshipful Company of Distillers (the WCD) was formed in 1638 when King Charles I granted the company a Royal Charter. The organisation is a City Livery Company – a trade guild that once acted as a modern day trade association, but whose powers to regulate alcoholic spirits were discontinued in the 19th Century. Today its function revolves around industry philanthropy, education, networking and fellowship.
The company’s industry mentoring capacity will involve providing a hand-picked mentor from amongst those members freely giving their time to help support mentees like Ethan.
The WCD has run its mentoring scheme for three years and has about 45 mentees presently in the programme, chosen from those students who are sponsored with bursaries at the training providers used.
Ethan hopes to have the Kamehameha Distillery open by the end of 2024.
