Tag: food and drink

Over 300 people queue for the opening of MINISO for four hours

Over 300 people turned up in their droves to The Centre, Livingston at the weekend, (29th November), for the opening of the pop culture retailer, MINISO, over four hours before the store opened, including the first customers, mum Helen Cornwell from Linlithgow and her daughters, Bonnie, (10) and Andie, (8) who are big fans of the brand.

The opening was marked with a celebratory ribbon cutting at 12noon, live music and a visit from MINISO’S mascot PenPen. The first 200 shoppers who spent £5 also received a goody bag worth £25. 

The brand is known for its colourful and trendy design-led lifestyle products, including unique collectables, fun stationary, plush toys and figurines from brands like Hello Kitty, Harry Potter and Friends, and its beauty and homeware range.

Mum Helen who was in the queue before 8am, said: “My daughters love everything about MINISO, including the soft toys and keyrings, so I thought I’d make their day and start queuing up early with them to get a first peek and the wait was well worth it!

“They both loved browsing the store and getting a goody bag too. I have a feeling we’ll be regular visitors!”

The opening of MINISO follows on from three other launches at the shopping centre over the past three weeks, including the Danish global brand, Flying Tiger on Friday 28th November, where over 200 people queued for over an hour and The Works the day before.

The opening of Wingstop on the 10th November also attracted huge crowds, with over 200 fans queuing for over two hours to be first in line to get their hands on the famous wings.

The new arrivals follow on from additional recent openings, including the jewellers, F.Hinds at The Centre, Livingston, 

The shopping centre, which is one of the largest in Scotland, is owned by LCP UK, part of M Core, one of Europe’s leading privately owned commercial property development and management companies and welcomes over 14.8m visitors a year. 

It has over 150 shops and restaurants, all under one roof, including River Island, Flannels, H&M, Pandora, Hotel Chocolat, wagamama and Nando’s, and 7,000 parking spaces.

Simon Eatough, Director at LCP UK, part of M Core and Asset Manager of The Centre, Livingston, said: “This has been a really exciting time for us and our shoppers at The Centre, Livingston as we welcome four new brands to the shopping centre, including MINISO, Flying Tiger, The Works and Wingstop.

“There was such a fantastic buzz in the air at the weekend, not only with shoppers turning up to get a first glimpse of the new stores but also to enjoy some of the Black Friday sales.

“Our new openings continue to further enhance our offering for visitors to enjoy a great day out shopping and dining out at their favourite stores and restaurants in the run-up to Christmas.”

Simon Howie’s Chocolate Haggis to make a return for Hogmanay

Three of Scotland’s best loved brands collaborate on the new recipe of the relaunched pudding

Pictured from left to right: Lauren Paterson, Mrs Tilly’s; Simon Howie; Richard Walker, Walker’s Shortbread

Unveiled on St Andrew’s Day and back by customer demand, Simon Howie’s famous chocolate haggis is making its return in time for two of Scotland’s biggest celebrations, Hogmanay and Burns Night. 

This time around, Simon Howie has collaborated with two of Scotland’s best loved brands, Walker’s Shortbread and Mrs Tilly’s, on a new and improved recipe featuring delicious chunks of all-butter shortbread and fudge, creating an indulgent and unique dessert that’s sold as a haggis!

Simon Howie’s Chocolate Haggis was originally launched in 2024 as a limited-edition pudding for Burns Night. While the brand was keen to bring it back for January 2025, legal dispute with Cadbury’s over the products previous purple packaging made this impossible.

Simon Howie said: “For our wee limited edition Chocolate Haggis to worry the biggest players in chocolate, shows the success of the 2023 launch.

“While we were disappointed not to be able to bring it back straight away, we used the time we needed to change the packaging to also improve the recipe by adding in chunks of shortbread and fudge from our friends at Walker’s and Mrs Tilly’s.

“The Scottish food and drink community is known for its collaboration, and this is a perfect example of three like-minded family-owned manufacturers teaming up to create a unique and innovative product.

“We’re grateful to Walker’s and Mrs Tilly’s for their support and look forward to hearing the reaction from our customers.”  

Richard Walker of Walker’s Shortbread said: “Chocolate Haggis is such a unique and fun celebration of Scotland and we’re delighted to be part of the new recipe development.

WWe are sure it will be enjoyed by many as the perfect pudding for Burns Night.”

Lauren Paterson of Mrs Tilly’s said: “We’re excited to have our Scottish fudge added to Simon Howie’s Chocolate Haggis dessert and that people across Scotland will be able to enjoy this sweet treat with their friends and families for Hogmanay and all the way through to Burns Night.”

Chocolate Haggis is an indulgent chocolate brownie dessert sold in the shape of a haggis. Simon Howie recommends removing all the packaging and microwaving the pudding for about 3 mins before serving with ice cream or cream. The pudding can also be cooked as a regular haggis would, and the casing cut open to serve.

Simon Howie is the UK’s number one haggis brand and sells more than 1.3m haggis during January in the run up to Burns Night. 

The brand’s previous work on Chocolate Haggis recently won Campiagn of the Year at the 2025 Scotland Food and Drink Awards.

Chocolate Haggis will be available in Tesco from the 26th December and from Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Scotmid from 1st January.

The product is limited edition until Burns Night so will be unavailable after the 26 January. RRP £5.00. You can find more information on Chocolate Haggis here.

Vittoria Group supports young people with first Giving Back donations

The Vittoria Group has revealed the first two beneficiaries of its new Vittoria Giving Back programme, launched last month in honour of the group’s 55th anniversary, to support local organisations making a difference across Edinburgh.

The inaugural recipients Teens+ and Prospect Bank School were selected from the first round of applications, with each receiving donations worth up to £1,000. Rather than providing cash, the Vittoria Group chose to fund specific items requested by each organisation, ensuring the support would deliver long-term, practical impact.

Teens+, a transitional education service, based beside Vittoria on the Walk on McDonald Road, supports young adults with complex learning difficulties across its four centres in Edinburgh and East Lothian, helping learners gain confidence and prepare for life beyond school.

As technology becomes central to everyday independence, whether communicating online, completing coursework, making bookings or working toward qualifications, Teens+ highlighted the growing need for accessible IT equipment. The group will receive a specialist laptop to help students build essential digital skills and engage safely in an increasingly online world.

The second recipient is Prospect Bank School in Leith, which supports primary-aged children with complex, long-term additional support needs, including intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The school focuses on helping pupils communicate, manage sensory input, and participate in meaningful learning experiences. Funding from Vittoria Giving Back will enable the purchase of a SENSIS Cube – a piece of sensory play equipment designed for spinning, swinging and climbing, offering pupils calming or stimulating activities tailored to their needs.

The Vittoria Group is encouraging local schools, charities, youth groups and community organisations to apply for the next round of support.

Applications can be submitted via givingback@vittoriagroup.co.uk.

Research reveals only one in four Edinburgh residents celebrate Saint Andrew’s Day

A national survey has revealed that just 25% of people in Edinburgh celebrate St Andrew’s Day, and at a national level almost four in ten (39%) Scots are unable to identify the date of St Andrew’s Day, highlighting a surprising gap in awareness surrounding the country’s patron saint.

The research by ScotPulse which was commissioned by Aldi Scotland, found that while most Scots recognise St Andrew’s Day as the country’s national day, many are unsure of the date, and even fewer mark the occasion.

Just one in four (26%) Scots say they celebrate St Andrew’s Day, held annually on 30 November, with confusion rife across the nation about what date it actually falls on. Some mistakenly believe it happens on 25 November (11%), 29 November (8%), with an additional 8% also believing it falls on 31 November – a date that doesn’t exist. Others mix it up with Burns Night in January.

The survey also found:

  • Women are more likely than men to know the correct date (64% vs 57%).
  • Younger Scots are the least likely to know what date it falls on, with just 43% of 16–34-year-olds answering correctly.

Aldi is a prominent champion of Scottish food and drink, and Scotland’s leading supermarket for locally sourced products. In October, it was named in the NFU Scotland’s ShelfWatch 2025 Mid-Year Report as the most prominent retailer to support Scottish produce, with 41% of its shelf stock now sourced locally.

In honour of its position as the nation’s most trusted supermarket of Scottish goods, the retailer is helping Scots to celebrate St Andrew’s Day this year with a feast including locally produced food and drink, which has all been approved by modern day Andrews.

After surveying hundreds of Andrews, Andys and Drews across Scotland on their favourite festive flavours, Aldi Scotland has revealed the results of its nationwide search for the “Andrew Approved Feast.”  

Following a social media vote, it was revealed that the most popular meal selection for St Andrew’s Day is:

  • Starter: Haggis Bon Bons with 52% of the votes
  • Main Course: Steak Pie with 66% of the votes
  • Side: Crispy roast tatties with 44% of the votes
  • Dessert: Scottish apple crumble with 42% of the votes
  • Drink: IRN BRU with 53% of the votes

Shoppers can pick up Aldi’s Andrew Approved Feast for less than a tenner, with the total cost coming to just £9.75:

  • Haggis Bon Bons: Specially Selected Haggis Bon Bons, 240g £2.29
  • Steak Pie: Frasers Small Top Crust Steak Pie, 400g £2.99
  • Crispy Roast Tatties: Scottish Baking Potatoes 4 pack, £0.79
  • Dessert: The Dessert Menu Bramley Apple Pie, 550g £2.99  
  • Drink: Vive Iron Brew 2L £0.69 

Sandy Mitchell, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Scotland said: “St Andrews Day is a key moment in Scotland’s cultural calendar and gives Scots the chance to reflect on our history and traditions. We were surprised to see that so many Scots don’t know when St Andrew’s Day is, and that so few actually take the time to celebrate it.

“At Aldi Scotland, we truly believe we have some of the best food and drink in the world, and we are proud to be a champion of local producers.  

“St Andrew’s Day on 30 November is the perfect opportunity for everyone to come together, enjoy fantastic local food, raise a glass, and celebrate everything that makes Scotland such a special place.”

The Botanist is Gifting Gig Tickets, Bar Tabs, Unlimited Kebabs, Champagne and even a Getaway

Move over Mariah, The Botanist has rewritten the soundtrack to Christmas with its own take on 12 Days of Christmas!

Think glasses clinking, ladies dancing, kebabs swinging, bands playing and cocktails shaking – it’s the ultimate Christmas packed with the gifts you actually want.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the music – to celebrate the season of giving, The Botanist is launching a huge social media giveaway in a countdown to Christmas, with prizes themed to each of the 12 days.  

Guests can expect everything from gig tickets and champagne to big bar tabs, date nights, a year’s worth of hanging kebabs (yes, really) and even a mini break up for grabs. The giveaways will start from Wednesday 19th November and happen every few days in the lead up to Christmas, with all 12 prizes being won by Christmas Eve.

Those feeling lucky should keep an eye on The Botanist’s Instagram page, where the remixed 12 Days of Christmas song and video will launch, each day to find out what’s up for grabs and how they can enter. 

And of course, it wouldn’t be winter at The Botanist without their Famous Hanging Kebabs and there’s a new festive addition to the line-up, the Christmas Dinner Hanging Kebab, stacked with roast turkey, pork and sage stuffing and pigs in blankets in a cranberry glaze, served with all the trimmings including maple roasted carrots, braised red cabbage, garlic & herb roast potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and finished with a jug of rich gravy to pour over. 

We all know Christmas is the time to treat ourselves, and The Botanist’s festive take on its signature sharing cookie dough is the ultimate indulgence. Those with a sweet tooth can savour a giant chocolate orange cookie dough served with honeycomb pieces, mini mince pies, ice cream coconut snowmen and Cointreau chocolate orange sauce (plus two spoons to dig in!) 

Behind the bar, the team has been busy working on this year’s limited-edition Christmas cocktails. Let nostalgia take over with the “It’s Mine” Old Fashioned – Maker’s Mark Bourbon infused with orange and stirred down with indulgent chocolate – it’s a boozy tribute to a festive favourite.

The Partridge in a Pear Tree, a nod to The Botanist’s 12 Days of Christmas campaign, featuring Absolut Vanilia Vodka shaken with pear, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice and topped with prosecco, is set to be your new favourite festive tipple! 

With imaginative and festive twists on The Botanist’s well-loved signature dishes, all created in house from scratch, this is the food and drink to celebrate over as party season gets underway! 

And that’s not all, the halls are being decked with larger-than-life Christmas trees, giant Christmas presents and golden pears for a photo backdrop worthy of a Christmas card!

The Botanist’s homegrown live musicians are ready to keep the festive cheer wild, playing live throughout the November and December as guests drinks and dine.  

The Botanist’s Christmas menu is available now. To find your nearest restaurant and book your table visit https://thebotanist.uk.com. 

Edinburgh locals get 25% off at Hard Rock Cafe this November

With Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets returning, there’s no better time to spend a day in the city, and Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is giving locals a reason to make the most of it.

Set on George Street, Hard Rock Cafe is known for its buzzing atmosphere, with walls adorned with authentic rock history items and serving classic American cuisine. This November, locals with an EH postcode can enjoy 25% off food and drinks until 5pm, Sunday to Friday, plus 25% off in retail.

It’s a great excuse to stop in for a burger or a refreshing drink before wandering through the markets or gliding across George Street ice rink. 

  • Guests must ask for the offer and provide proof of EH residency when requested (driving license, utility bill etc) or book the offer via OpenTable Experiences (and provide proof of EH residency)
  • Food and non-alcoholic drinks only, not valid on alcohol
  • Select Retail only (no co-branded or charity)
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount, offer or event ticket
  • Valid from opening to 5pm
  • Valid now until end of November

How to book: https://cafe.hardrock.com/

New Scottish pie dinner at John’s Coffee House & Tavern

The historic Old Town venue has launched ‘John’s Pies’, a brand-new dinner menu dedicated entirely to one of the nation’s favourite comfort foods.

In partnership with Jarvis Pickle, based in the Scottish Borders and winners of 46 British Pie Awards and 21 Great Taste Awards, John’s Coffee House & Tavern now serves a menu of eight handcrafted pies, seven regulars and one rotating seasonal flavour, all made in Scotland using the finest ingredients.

Each pie is served with creamy mash, peas, and a rich gravy for £14.50, available daily from 5pm to 9pm. Diners can choose from a comforting and flavour-packed line-up, from rich venison to hearty beef, plus vegan and seasonal specials.

“Pies have always been part of Scottish heritage – simple, hearty and full of flavour,” says Corrina Croy, General Manager at John’s Coffee House & Tavern.

“Collaborating with Jarvis Pickle felt like the perfect fit for us. They share our values of quality, craftsmanship and celebrating the best of Scotland’s produce. John’s Pies brings a true taste of comfort to our dinner menu, just in time for the cold season.”

True to its ethos of supporting Scottish producers, John’s Coffee House & Tavern continues to champion local suppliers across its menu and bar. The bar serves only Bellfield Brewery beers and Edinburgh Cider Company ciders, both proudly brewed in Edinburgh, alongside a wide range of Scotch whiskies, offering the perfect pairing for a hearty pie supper.

Nestled behind St Giles’ Cathedral, John’s Coffee House & Tavern sits within CODE The Court, a boutique hotel and urban hostel housed in Edinburgh’s former police chambers and courthouse; a space steeped in character, stories, and tradition.

‘John’s Pies’ is now being served daily from 5pm to 9pm – walk-ins only.

Aldi deputy store manager celebrates 30 years of service

Aldi Livingston deputy store manager, Vikki Devlin, is marking an incredible milestone as she celebrates 30 years with the retailer. 

Vikki, 53, from Livingston, first joined Aldi in 1995 at the original Bathgate store, before transferring to the Livingston store on Almondvale Road in 1998.

Since then, she has become a familiar face to generations of customers, working her way up from Store Assistant to Deputy Store Manager and helping to shape the store’s welcoming, community atmosphere. 

Vikki joked: “I’ve spent my whole adult life at Aldi, my whole married life, my son’s whole life, I don’t really remember life before it!” 

Reflecting on her early days, Vikki said: “When I started, there were only two Aldi stores in Scotland, and I’d barely heard of it until my auntie told me about the one in Wishaw.

“The recruitment process was tough – we had to memorise a full price list and sit a test at the end of the week. If you remembered correctly, you were offered a job. Thankfully, I passed!” 

Over the years, Vikki has seen the Livingston store transform with two major extensions, new technology and countless memories made along the way.

“The changes have been incredible,” she said. “When I started, we were cash only and had to introduce a separate card area when they became the more common way to pay. Now we’ve got digital price cards, scanners and card tills, it’s a totally different world.” 

Vikki’s three decades with Aldi have been marked by enduring friendships and a real sense of family.

“I’ve made some lifelong friends who started as colleagues,” she said. “I’ve worked with Debbie for 23 years and Kevin has been my manager for 22 years.

“We’ve watched all our kids grow up together – it’s more like a family than colleagues. Our store is unusual in that so many people here have celebrated years of long service, and that’s definitely down to Kevin.

“He’s completely transformed the shop and the atmosphere.” 

Vikki’s warmth and care extend beyond her team to the customers she serves. “There’s one couple, Nan and Davie, who I’ve served my whole career, and now I serve their three daughters too. I always say they’re my adopted parents! I even get them Christmas presents,” she said.

“Some customers will queue just to come to my till, and I get birthday cards and pictures from their kids. It’s those moments that make the job so rewarding and special.” 

Having been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis eight years ago, Vikki says the support from her colleagues has been “tremendous”. “They help me with day-to-day things like setting up the till and are always looking out for me. It’s that kind of support that makes Aldi such a special place to work.” 

Over the years, Vikki has also played a big part in supporting and training younger team members. “I’ve helped to train lots of young apprentices who had 101 questions,” she laughed. “Now some of them are managing their own stores across the country.”  

Kevin Regan, Store Manager, Aldi Livingston said: “Vikki is the heart of this store. Her warmth, humour and kindness shine through every day, whether she’s supporting a colleague or chatting with customers at the till.  

“She’s been a fantastic role model to everyone who’s worked alongside her and has made a real difference to our store and our community. We’re so proud of her and delighted to celebrate this incredible 30-year milestone.” 

WICKED INSPIRED: Halloween at The Ivy Edinburgh

This spooky season, take a stroll down the yellow brick road and into The Ivy On The Square, Edinburgh as it transforms into The Ivy Emerald City. With a magical dessert, perfectly pink and gloriously green cocktails, Halloween is not to be missed this year at The Ivy.

From 25th October, The Ivy in Edinburgh will be serving up a wickedly delicious dessert, perfect for rounding off a meal this spooky season. Crafted exclusively for the occasion, The Emerald City Apple sees a chilled apple parfait perched on a golden blondie bed with milk foam, accompanied by a raspberry coulis.

Complete with a green witch’s hand and a cloud of candy floss, the dessert is an indulgent and enchanting treat for guests with a sweet tooth.

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Sip like a “Good Witch” or a “Bad Witch” with The Ivy’s spellbinding cocktails

Carefully crafted by The Ivy Collection’s expert team of mixologists, this Halloween sees a duo of delicious cocktails launch to celebrate the season:

Bound to be a popular choice for those with a taste of something tart but sweet, the Rhubarb Bubble sees Ketel One vodka, Rhubarb Mead and Doppelgänger Aperitivo blended with a touch of vanilla and served with a magical sprinkling of raspberry sugar dust.

Meanwhile, the Emerald Magic Margarita is definitely a good deed, combining Casamigos tequila with Beesou Honey liqueur and matcha cold brew with a dash of lime and geranium syrup – a dusting of Tajin on the rim casting a spell of heat.

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Guests are invited to book their table [here] to avoid disappointment.