Tag: food and drink

From field to fridge: East Lothian dairy leads cottage cheese crusade in Scotmid stores

Cottage cheese is making a comeback and Scotmid is at the forefront, offering two new products in stores nationwide now.

The humble dairy staple taking over social media feeds and shopping lists alike, has recently gained online traction amongst health-conscious consumers for being a high protein, versatile ingredient that can be used in a wealth of creations including whipped pancakes, flatbreads and even ice cream.

For one East Lothian dairy farm though, cottage cheese is nothing new. Yester Farm Dairies – a third-generation family business run by husband-and-wife team Simon and Jackie McCreery – has been perfecting recipes over the last decade.  

The award-winning duo, who first began pasteurising their milk in 2003 to supply milk and cream locally before expanding by converting farm buildings into modern cheese and yoghurt making facilities in 2015, today offer one of the only on-farm dairy processors in Scotland.

The journey from cow to product is measured in metres, not miles, with milk from its herd of over 350 cows produced on-site and ready for shelves within just two days. This “field to fridge” approach helps maximise freshness, reduce food miles and ensure full traceability — helping the business stand out in Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites competition.

As a result, Yester Farm Dairies will now see its products stocked across Scotland, marking the biggest retail rollout in the family business’s history and reaching 120 Scotmid stores.

Simon McCreery, at Yester Farm Dairies, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have won a Scottish Favourites place and to now be launching into Scotmid stores across Scotland.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for us — and we’re excited to see more customers discovering our products.”

Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites initiative, delivered in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink, helps local producers grow by giving them access to retail shelves and new audiences.

Steve Addison, Local Sourcing Manager at Scotmid, said: “Scottish Favourites is all about backing great local producers, and Yester Farm Dairies stood out for both quality and freshness.

“At a time when demand for high-protein foods is growing, it’s fantastic to be able to offer customers a locally produced option that’s made with care and reaches shelves quickly.

“Supporting businesses like Yester Farm is a key part of what we do — strengthening local supply chains while giving customers access to great Scottish produce.”

Customers can purchase Yester Farm’s cottage cheese and soft cheese in Scotmid stores across Scotland from 15th April , priced at £1.79 for 300g and £2.19 for 300g respectively.

Edinburgh’s Keller Taproom to host new women-led whisky tasting to support industry inclusivity

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers (MSWD) has teamed up with the Capital’s Kellar Taproom to support women in whisky, with all proceeds going to Smart Works and OurWhisky Foundation this month. 

Inspired by the easy conversation and coming together of a Book Club, Notes in the Margin is a one-night-only event on Wednesday, 22 April, from 7pm to 8pm. 

This is a women’s whisky tasting that brings people together to explore an unknown selection of drams from across the Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers portfolio. Tasted blind, discussed openly, and shaped by guests’ own “notes in the margin” along the way.

On the night, guests will also have the rare opportunity to sample the sold-out inaugural release of Aberargie Single Malt Whisky, a debut expression released last month that’s not currently available to purchase.

Hosted by MSWD brand managers Lauren Doherty and Rebecca Davidson, the guided tasting will introduce a curated line-up of “secret” whiskies, encouraging attendees to share their thoughts and impressions as they go, creating their own ‘notes in the margin’.

Rebecca Davidson of Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers said: “Whether you’re new to whisky or love a good dram, come and join us for our first women in whisky event. It’s relaxed, friendly and a great way to meet new people whilst trying new whisky you can’t get anywhere else.”

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers is an independent, family-owned business representing five generations of Morrison whisky heritage. Based in Perth, the company focuses on single-malt production, blending, and bottling, with a portfolio that includes Aberargie, Old Perth, Mac-Talla, Càrn Mòr, and Bruadar.

At the heart of the business is Aberargie Distillery, located on a family-owned farm near Perth. Established in 2017, the distillery marks the Morrison family’s return to whisky production following the sale of Morrison Bowmore to Suntory in 1994.

Tickets are £10 from Skiddle and include three whisky drams, with all proceeds going to Smart Works and OurWhisky Foundation. 

The OurWhisky Foundation is a non-profit organisation that recognises, supports and empowers women working in whisky around the world, while advocating for a more inclusive and diverse industry.

Where: Kellar Taproom, 23-27 Broughton Street Lane, Edinburgh, EH1 3LY
When: Wednesday, 22 April
Cost: £10 with three drams
Ticket Link: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Edinburgh/Keller-Taproom-Edinburgh/Notes-in-the-Margin/42139111/ 

Edinburgh’s most extraordinary Sunday Roast has arrived just in time for Easter

Award-winning Chef Mandeep Saini swaps tradition for deep-fried naan and masala mash in a Sunday roast unlike anything Scotland has seen before

This Easter, one Edinburgh restaurant is turning the nation’s most beloved meal into a taste sensation. Bombay Bistro, the boldly spiced Indian-fusion restaurant on Bruntsfield Place is serving what may be Scotland’s most talked-about Easter roast – and it comes with a unique Bombay twist. 

Diners can choose between tender slow-roasted lamb or succulent chicken, served with buttered cabbage, sweet carrots and peas, and rich gravy. But it’s the details that set this roast apart – silky masala mash in place of buttered potatoes and a deep-fried naan, rather than a Yorkshire pudding. 

Behind the menu is Chef Mandeep Saini, formerly head chef at Gleneagles and The Berkeley in London, and one of Scotland’s most celebrated culinary talents. 

“The Sunday roast is one of the nation’s favourite food traditions – and that’s exactly why I wanted to reimagine it,” says Chef Mandeep.

“We haven’t replaced it – we’ve elevated it. Every element in Bombay Bistro’s Sunday Roast has a depth of flavour and spice that makes it completely unforgettable..” 

At a time when diners are seeking bold, experience-led eating, Bombay Bistro’s Sunday Roast offers something genuinely rare – a dish rooted in tradition, elevated by world-class technique. 

Bombay Bistro is located at 14-17 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4HN. Sunday Roasts are available every Sunday. To book, please visit the website here.

Healthy Cooking Course at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

SIX WEEK COURSE – FIRST SESSION TOMORROW

Ready to cook smarter, eat healthier, and save money?

Join our Funded Efficient & Healthy Cooking Course for Women and discover how simple changes in the kitchen can transform your health and reduce food bills.

✔️ Hands-on sessions

✔️ Professional instructor

✔️ Sustainable, budget-friendly recipes

✔️ Flexible and supportive environment

📍 Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre, Edinburgh

📅 Fridays, March 27th – May 1st

⏰ 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Spaces are limited — get in touch today!

📧 nadia@elrec.org.uk

📱 07935196482

#healthycooking

#Efficiency

#ELREC

#edinburgh

Easter holidays Breakfast Club at Muirhouse Library

During the Easter holidays we will be running a breakfast club for children and families 🥣🥛

Monday – Saturday 10:15am – 12:15pm

We will be CLOSED on Good Friday and Easter Monday so the breakfast club will be starting from the 7th April and will run until the 20th April 🐇

Free cereal, cereal bars and refreshments provided.

Draw mum, win cake!

Children in Edinburgh are being given the chance to turn their artwork into a real cake masterpiece this Mother’s Day, thanks to a special competition running at any Edinburgh Cake Box store.

The challenge is simple – children can pick up a Mother’s Day competition sheet online or from any Edinburgh Cake Box store, draw a picture of their Mum in the space provided and return it to the store by tomorrow – 12 March 2026.

The winning child will see their drawing professionally printed onto a real Mother’s Day Party Platter Cake – transforming their artwork into a delicious centrepiece to be enjoyed at a family celebration.

As well as seeing their design brought to life, the winner will also receive a Mother’s Day party bundle to take home and enjoy with their family.

CB_Cake_Design_MthrsDay_Comp_Sheet_A4_v3Download

How to enter:

  • Collect a design sheet in-store at any Edinburgh or download from online here.
  • Draw a picture of your Mum in the space provided – the more heartfelt and creative, the better.
  • Return the completed sheet to any Cake Box store by 12 March 2026.

    The competition is open to children of all ages and offers a creative and meaningful way for local families to celebrate Mother’s Day together.

    As well as offering a chance to win, it encourages local families to get involved in the community and get creative during the summer holidays.

    Sukh Chamdal, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) at Cake Box, said: 
    “We love finding ways to make celebrations even more special for families.     This Mother’s Day competition gives children the chance to create something truly personal for their Mum and, for one lucky winner, that drawing will become a real cake they can share together. We can’t wait to see the wonderful designs from children in Edinburgh.”

    Cake Box is the UK’s leading retailer of handmade, fresh cream egg-free cakes. Its 290+ stores nationwide offer beautifully handcrafted celebration cakes and sweet treats for every occasion. Stores also offer quick and beautiful personalisation, for an extra special touch.  

    Visit www.cakebox.com to find your local store or click and collect in as little as one hour.

Eat Out Edinburgh is LIVE!

Eat Out Edinburgh, the popular city-centre restaurant festival run by Essential Edinburgh, is now live for 2026, with diners invited to explore exclusive offers across almost 60 restaurants, cafes and bars throughout March – alongside the chance to win a range of standout dining prizes.

Running across the city centre for the entire month, the festival brings together special menus, discounts and curated dining experiences designed to showcase Edinburgh’s vibrant hospitality scene while encouraging people to explore new venues. Diners can now browse and book the live offers at www.eatoutedinburgh.com.

New for this year, guests who dine at three participating venues during the festival can enter into a prize draw featuring experiences from some of Edinburgh’s best-loved hospitality destinations.

Diners simply log the offers they’ve enjoyed on the Eat Out Edinburgh website at https://www.edinburghcitycentre.co.uk/restaurant/eat-out-to-win-this-march/ to be in with a chance of winning – and save their receipts for confirmation if they win! 

Potential rewards include a top prize of an overnight stay for two at the Rutland Hotel alongside a three-course dinner with a bottle of wine at Badger & Co, with additional prizes like a meal for four with a bottle of prosecco at Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, a delicious South Indian meal at Tamil Teru, a three-course dinner for two with wine at Gaucho, or a boozy brunch at Copper Blossom.

Following the success of last year, the intimate supper clubs also return for 2026. On 12 March, Contini George Street will host an intimate five-course dinner celebrating seasonal Italian produce limited to just 16 guests, with the option to add a signed Contini cookbook. Tickets are available now from £40pp.

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse will also introduce an exclusive supper club experience on 26 March, priced at £65 per person. Limited to just 40 guests, Rio’s signature churrasco-style service of expertly prepared meats will be paired with eight carefully selected wines. Adding an interactive twist, guests will vote for their favourite wine, with the winning selection earning a place on Rio’s summer wine menu. The experience also includes a welcome cocktail on arrival and a palate-cleansing cocktail to finish.

Guests are encouraged to book their spot for both events soon through the Eat Out Edinburgh website, as spots are limited to these exclusive evenings.

This year’s festival features a mix of exciting new participants and returning favourites, offering something for every taste, budget and occasion. First-time venues taking part include:

  • Brasserie Prince: Available Monday to Thursday, diners can enjoy three elegant courses for just £35 at Brasserie Prince, set within the iconic Balmoral Hotel. Enjoy seasonal dishes crafted with flair, flavour and a touch of Scottish charm.
  • ASSAGINNI: Diners can savour the vibrant flavours of Italy at ASSAGINNI with an exclusive 20% off your food bill from Sunday to Thursday. Known for its sociable small plates and contemporary take on Italian dining, the offer invites guests to explore an array of beautifully crafted dishes perfect for sharing, from fresh pasta to indulgent antipasti.
  • Franco Manca: Pizza lovers can tuck into two courses for just £19.50 at Franco Manca and savour any main menu pizza and dip alongside a dessert, bite or bread for just a fraction of the cost. 
  • The Caley Bar: Discover an unrivalled evening of spirits and sounds at Edinburgh’s brand-new cocktail and listening bar. Enjoy 50% off the Caley Bar snack menu with the purchase of every cocktail or glass of champagne.
  • Paesano: Recently opened in Edinburgh, the popular Neapolitan pizzeria is getting involved in Eat Out Edinburgh for the first time ever. Guests can enjoy any pizza that is normally priced over £10, for just a tenner during the month of March. 
  • The Garden at Kimpton Charlotte Square: If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, The Garden at Kimpton Charlotte Square offers diners a sharing board and two spritzes for £27.50, available every day throughout March.
  • Wahaca Edinburgh: Available everyday throughout the month of March, diners can enjoy the ‘Taste of Wahaca’ menu plus a freshly shaken cocktail for just £25pp! The menu features favourites including Guacamole & Tortilla Chips, Sweet Potato & Feta Taquito and Pork Pibil Tacos.

Returning favourites including Harvey Nichols, Dishoom, The Voodoo Rooms, SUSHISAMBA, Hawksmoor, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, Duck & Waffle, and BABA have also unveiled exclusive menus, ensuring there’s something for every taste, budget and occasion throughout the month.

Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Essential Edinburgh, said: “As a testament to the impact Eat Out Edinburgh continues to have for participating venues, almost 60 exclusive offers are now available to book throughout March, alongside exciting new prizes and the return of our popular supper clubs.

Together, they give people even more reason to explore the city centre, try somewhere new and celebrate Edinburgh’s incredible hospitality scene.”

A full list of participating venues and offers is available at 

www.eatoutedinburgh.com,

where diners can browse menus and book experiences.

Monday Breakfast Cafe at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

☕ We’re back this Monday!

Join us at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre for our weekly Monday Café – the perfect way to start the week with good food, hot drinks, and friendly chat.

🥞 Breakfast rolls (sausage, fried egg, tattie scones) and some delicious home baking!

☕ Tea & coffee

💬 A warm welcome for everyone

📅 Monday

⏰ 9–11am

Scottish brewery wins Champion Winter Beer of Britain silver

Black Gold (4.4%), a session stout by Cairngorm in Aviemore, has won silver in CAMRA’s Champion Winter Beer of Britain award, announced at Liverpool Beer Festival. Proving its credentials as a truly great winter beer after also being crowned the winner in 2025.

After a year of local and regional blind judging heats, the Campaign’s top three beers have been crowned. Black Gold will now go forward to the final judging in May at CAMRA’s Cambridge Beer Festival where it’ll battle it out to take the crown of Supreme Champion 2026. 

Judges were blown away, with judging panel coordinator Christine Cryne describing Black Gold (4.4%) as: “A black session stout with red hues and oyster head. Aromas of black treacle and faint hits of dark fruits. Caramelised fruits on a sweetish chocolate base with some plums create a moreish stout. The dry finish is slightly sweet with some spicy notes. 

The judging and announcement took place at Liverpool Beer Festival, in the Lutyens Crypt at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, just ten minutes’ walk from Liverpool Lime Street station. Competition beers are available at the festival while stocks last.

CAMRA’s Awards Director, Shelly Bentley, said: “Our Champion Beer of Britain competition is the only truly independent beer contest in the UK. Brewers can’t simply enter their beers into it; they have to be nominated by beer lovers or expert tasting panels.

“Everyone taking home a category win or top three placement should be proud that their beers have been declared the cream of the crop by expert judges.”

Overall winner was London Brewing‘s Beer Street, 4.0%

Bronze went to Green Jack‘s, Baltic Trader Export Stout, 10.5%

Edinburgh’s month-long celebration of food & drink returns this March

A month of exceptional dining awaits as Eat Out Edinburgh returns to the city this March, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy a month of exclusive deals, special menus and curated experiences from some of the capital’s best bars and restaurants.

Following a standout 2025 campaign, Eat Out Edinburgh 2026 will once again run for the entire month, bringing family, friends and colleagues together to support the city centre’s hospitality scene. More than 50 venues are expected to take part this year, building on last year’s momentum.

Founded in 2022 by Essential Edinburgh, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), the campaign encourages people to explore new cuisines while taking advantage of discounts and limited-time offers.

In 2025, the initiative delivered tangible results for participating businesses, with bookings up by 31% for the month of March, a 33% increase in sales, and 75% of diners going on to shop elsewhere in the BID after their meal.

Once again, Eat Out Edinburgh will showcase a diverse mix of restaurants, cafés and bars across Princes Street to George Street, St Andrew  Square and St James Quarter. Popular city favourites like Dishoom, Hawksmoor, Contini, SUSHISAMBA and more will return alongside a strong line-up of new additions for 2026.

Restaurants joining for the first time include Brasserie Prince at The Balmoral, ASSAGGINI, The Garden at The Kimpton, The Caley Bar, Miele, and Wahaca, adding even more variety to this year’s campaign.

A full list of participating venues and offers will be available soon on the Eat Out Edinburgh website, featuring exclusive menus, events and deals.

Diners are encouraged to sign up for updates and browse the latest offers at www.eatoutedinburgh.com.

Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications, Essential Edinburgh, said: “Last year’s campaign really demonstrated the power of Eat Out Edinburgh, not just in driving bookings but in encouraging people to spend more time in the city centre.

“Seeing a 31% increase in bookings shows the real impact this initiative has on our hospitality businesses at a time when restaurants need the most support.

“With an exciting mix of returning favourites and new openings joining the campaign this year, we’re confident 2026 will offer something for everyone – from impromptu lunches to celebratory dinners – giving locals, workers and visitors even more reasons to explore all the experiences our city centre offers, and support our hospitality sector.”

For more information, and to keep up to date with the campaign, visit: 

www.eatoutedinburgh.com