This October Half-Term Break, McLarens on the Corner in Morningside is introducing a limited offer to celebrate grandparents with a “Grans Eat Free” deal throughout the October holidays.
The family-friendly restaurant that believes in serving up sumptuous food, delicious cocktails, and a whole lot of love has created the offer as a thank you to the grandparents that will be home with the kids while they’re off from school.
Grandparents are beloved for spoiling their grandchildren with love, affection, and all the treats mum usually doesn’t allow. It’s time that they get spoiled in return! Signature Group has decided to turn the tables, and instead of having kids eat free this half-term holiday, we’re giving the free meal to Gran.
The deal was created to acknowledge the unsung heroes at the heads of our families that rarely get a day devoted to treating them with the same care that they exhibit each day.
Including anything from a bacon cheeseburger for lunch to blackened salmon for dinner, grandparents can choose the entrée that suits their appetite for no charge for two weeks in October. Now, the kids can start pooling together their pocket money and get ready to pick up the bill for their meal, because this meal is on them.
The limited offer will be available on weekdays between 10th and 21st October. One grandparent can receive a free main course per visit when they dine with their grandkids. Kids must also order a main dish from the children’s menu or main a la carte menu. Free main excludes steak.
UKGovernment backs new reforms making it unlawful for employers to withhold tips from staff
New legislation to make it unlawful for employers to withhold tips from staff
it means customers will know for certain that all tips will go to hard-working employees, who will take home more money
the Tipping Bill will benefit more than 2 million workers and, for the first time, will give them the right to see an employer’s tipping record
Millions of UK workers will be able take home more of their hard-earned cash under new legislation, backed by the government yesterday, banning employers from withholding tips from their staff.
Despite most hospitality workers – many of whom are earning the National Minimum Wage – relying on tips to top up their pay, there are still sadly too many businesses who shamefully fail to pass on service charges from customers to their staff.
The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Bill, introduced by Dean Russell MP and backed by the government, will ensure that all tips go to staff by making it unlawful for businesses to hold back well-earned service charges from their employees.
This overhaul of tipping practices is set to benefit more than 2 million UK workers across the hospitality, leisure and services sectors – who tend to reply on tips the most – and will help to ease pressures caused by global inflation and an increase to the cost of living.
Business Minister Jane Huntsaid: “At a time when people are feeling the squeeze with rising costs, it is simply not right that employers are withholding tips from their hard-working employees.
“Whether you are pulling pints or greeting guests, today’s reforms will ensure that staff receive a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work – and it means customers can be confident their money is going to those who deserve it.
“I particularly want to tip my hat to the work of Dean Russell MP and all the campaigners who have helped make the Tipping Bill a reality.”
Through the Bill, a new statutory Code of Practice will be developed to provide businesses and staff with advice on how tips should be distributed. On top of this, workers will receive a new right to request more information relating to an employer’s tipping record, enabling them to bring forward a credible claim to an employment tribunal.
Dean Russell, Conservative MP for Watford, said: “I am delighted that my Tips Bill has passed second reading in Parliament. It is fantastic that we are on track to securing a fair deal for millions of people working in hospitality across the country.
“It has always felt wrong that some employers have retained tips intended for their staff. This new legislation will halt this practice, particularly given the current challenges around the cost of living. I would like to thank all of the businesses and stakeholders that have got in touch to voice their support.”
The move towards a cashless society has exacerbated the problem of companies keeping card tip payments for themselves, and today’s measures, once in law, will ban that practice.
UK Hospitality Chief Executive, Kate Nicholls, said: “Tips and service charges provide a significant and welcome boost to hospitality employees’ take-home cash. So we’re delighted to see this proposed legislation recommend that employers can set a fair distribution policy for staff, meaning they all benefit.
“This should also reassure prospective hospitality sector workers at a time when the industry is seeking to fill vacancies.”
The reforms follow a range of UK Government action to support people with the cost of living and help those on lower incomes keep more of what they earn.
Most notably, earlier this year the government increased the National Living Wage to £9.50 per hour – equivalent to an extra £1,000 a year for a full-time worker – with a full campaign which encouraged workers to check their pay.
In addition, the government recently announced a widening of the ban on exclusivity clauses, giving the lowest paid workers flexibility to top up their pay and work multiple jobs if they wish.
The government helpfully adds: ‘reforms come at a time when there are more employees on payrolls than ever before – and unemployment has reached an all-time low’.
Does your favourite bar go above and beyond for the community? Does it have a gin-credible drinks selection? Or has it shaken up an innovative cocktail? Well, you only have until the end of TODAY to share their successes and help crown them top of the Scots.
It is your last chance to enter Scotland’s longest running licensed trade awards – dubbed the ‘hospitality Oscars’ – the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022.
Back bigger and better this year, the prestigious annual event is looking for establishments from John O’Groats to the Mull of Galloway who deserve to be recognised for their offerings.
Have you been wowed by the views from a special rooftop bar? Has a brand-new chic lounge caressed your tastebuds with a cocktail offering? Or have the charming surroundings of your local welcomed both you and your pooch through the door? Well now is your chance to shout about it!
At the 27th annual event, category sponsors are looking to hear from staff, customers and community members who would like to see their much-loved establishment take home a coveted accolade across one of the nineteen specialised categories.
Nominations are open until 30 June and establishments have the chance to be shortlisted for recognition as Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, the Molinari Casual Dining Award or the Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue.
Stolichnaya are on the hunt for a bar, restaurant or hotel that operates with a sustainable business model – from recycled bottles to reducing plastic waste. If that is you, they want to hear from you.
Meanwhile, Hungrrr are looking for an establishment that is forward-thinking and has embraced technology to keep their business driving forward.
Antos are also looking to find the best Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, The Busker is seeking out the Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year and Hi-Spirits want to find the Best Live Music Venue.
The prestigious awards also look to celebrate rising stars in the industry, community-minded establishments and overall give a much-needed boost to those championing the late-night economy.
New for 2022, The Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the year award will look to recognise operators that offer something special for their locals or are full of exceptional teams that make the industry so vibrant and fresh.
Organiser, Susan Youngsaid: “Scotland has the best people and our awards are here to commend those charismatic individuals and their incredible venues that make up Scotland’s unparalleled hospitality landscape. But they need your help to vote for them. Reward the efforts of your favourite pub or bar and vote now on The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards website.”
To enter your local bar into this year’s awards, simply vote online to cast your nomination. Every vote counts as the ten competitors with the most votes from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the finalists are revealed.
Following a judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glittering award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central.
Nominations are now open across Scotland for The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022.
Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers.
ARO Procurement Customer Service Award Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.
Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.
Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…
Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.
DRAM Community Pub of the Year Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.
DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.
Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022 Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.
Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keep their business on track and driving them forward.
Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?
Kopparberg New Bar of the Year Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?
Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022 Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that serve good value quality food.
Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.
Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?
Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue Pernod Ricard, the brand owners with Havana Club, Beefeater, and Chivas in its portfolio, is looking for a late night venue that exemplifies what is good and great about late night socialising.
Sunday Mail Pub of the Year This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.
Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability
This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters.
The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year The Busker is an innovative ‘new to the world’ Irish Whiskey which is seeking out Scotland’s most innovative Cocktail Bar. It is looking for a bar which marries traditions with a contemporary look and which empowers bartenders to go beyond their limitations and create flavour-curious (great) cocktails.
William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year 2022 The Bar Apprentice is back for with a bespoke programme for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy!
The University of Edinburgh’s first-class hospitality and events portfolio, previously known as Edinburgh First, has ‘transitioned to a new identity closely aligned to the strong, globally recognised University brand’.
The rebrand includes the relaunch of the brand’s enviable accommodation offering. The new Hospitality and Events Collection now includes The Scott Hotel, a boutique hotel with 36 stunning suites and spacious bedrooms, perfectly positioned to appeal to those business and leisure travellers who are looking for a five star luxury experience.
The hotels rebrand also includes KM Hotel & Apartments in Edinburgh’s old town, a mix of stylish, modern bedrooms and apartments and, finally, The Scholar Hotel, located in the beautiful grounds of the Pollock estate. This hotel now has a contemporary bar and restaurant, as well as rooms that have been designed to ensure maximum comfort and the best possible night’s sleep.
The conference and events portfolio has always been a core part of The University of Edinburgh’s Hospitality and Events Collection, and the rebrand will further strengthen this connection to the University.
The University’s conference venues have always helped to attract global conferences and events with large delegate cohorts to the City of Edinburgh, and the team will work closely with academics and researchers to ensure that this grows even further.
The rebrand represents the growth of the University of Edinburgh’s commercial arm and further positions The University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection as a major player in the hospitality and business tourism industry.
Carina Svensen, Director, Accommodation, Catering and Events at The University of Edinburgh said: “The rebrand has been years in the making and our expert team has spent a lot of time analysing the market and exploring changing customer demands. Our transition has been expertly executed at every level to reflect the new hospitality, conference, and events landscape.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests old and new into our hotels, apartments, and unique event spaces.”
Edinburgh’s Queensferry Street PizzaExpress has undergone a full refurb and will welcome customers back through its doors to grab their most loved pizzas with a brand-new look.
The pizzeria will offer a wide range of dishes from the Piccolo menu for children to numerous vegan options and comes complete with a vibrant setting for all the family to enjoy.
The refresh brings the flavour and passion of Italian dining culture to the town, inspired by the original vision of Founder, Peter Boizot, who first introduced the taste of authentic pizza to the UK in 1965.
At the heart of the restaurant is the open kitchen, the stage from which expert pizzaiolos showcase their talent – and love – for pizza making. As much of a feast for the eyes as for the belly, diners will delight as they bring the theatre and authenticity of the craft to the fore.
Ben Hicks, Territory Manager at PizzaExpress Edinburgh Queensferry, said:“We know the love people have for PizzaExpress, and we think they’ll enjoy coming returning to the new look of our pizzeria in Edinburgh Queensferry. The refurbishment has added a great feel and ambience to the space making it the perfect space for family dining.”
PizzaExpress recently launched its 2022 spring menu which includes the nationwide rollout of its vegan-version garlic butter, as well as a range of brand-new dishes celebrating seasonality and freshness. There are also a variety of new drinks from Naturally Pink Apple Juice to the Pornstar Martini and Campari Negroni.
A new gastropub with an authentic farm-to-fork philosophy has just opened on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The Fetching Fox, where the emphasis is on an appreciation of local and Scottish produce, is the latest venture launched by the Gammell family – owners of Conifox Adventure Park and the recently opened indoor Activity Centre in Kirkliston.
With a rich family heritage in farming, the restaurant’s modern rustic interior and mouth-watering menus reflect their love of the land and ethos of championing Scotland’s finest seasonal harvest – from local West Lothian-raised beef to hand-dived Orkney scallops.
Locally-produced ice cream also features along with an exuberant cocktail menu of classics and drinks with the Conifox twist – Tartan Apple anyone?
The 100-cover gastropub is housed in the park’s newly refurbished former Stables Bistro, which has been lovingly restored to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. The distinct décor builds on the natural character of the space which offers a relaxed, informal dining and bar area in a completely new ambience.
Beyond the inviting interior with its log-burning fires, The Fetching Fox also features an outdoor area, with gourmet barbecue in the Summer months, all set against the beautiful rural backdrop.
The creative team in the kitchen is led by Grant Mercer, a veteran of Edinburgh eateries including The Raeburn and Kilted Lobster in Stockbridge. His menus include steaks, Blue Murder cheese sauce, scallops with curried and pickled cauliflower, chocolate French toast for brunch and cardamom rice pudding.
The Fetching Fox will be open on Thursday-Sunday from 5pm offering a mix of small plates, main courses, including dishes from the grill, and desserts. Lunch time bookings will also be available shortly.
James Gammell, Managing Director of Conifox Adventure Park, says: “This is a wonderful new project for us and is really a natural extension of the family’s entrepreneurial spirit and farming history. With our experience of hill farming and having had sheep and cattle in Conifox, we know exactly what it takes to get the very best out of our land.
“In Scotland, we rear some of the best meat and produce in the world and that’s something we wanted to celebrate in our menus. We’re excited to share our vision with our customers and look forward to welcoming diners who have the same appreciation of great, seasonal, Scottish food and drink.”
Local suppliers include Castle Game and local fish supplier, Welch Fishmongers, Edinburgh’s Pickering’s Gin, the Ferry Brewery, Days non-alcoholic beer, Forth Coffee Roasters and S. Luca of Musselburgh ice cream. The Fetching Fox can also accommodate private dining experiences for parties up to 30.
The Ivy on the Square is celebrating the Easter season with a series of delicious specials incorporating limited edition cocktails, a spring lamb dish and showstopping Easter Nest dessert.
The enticing offering will be available to guests for Easter weekend only (Friday, 15 until Monday, 18 April) alongside the brasserie’s inimitable classics, fusing fresh seasonal ingredients and delectable culinary twists.
The Grilled Lamb Cutlets (£25.95) will be served with a crushed pea and herb purée with slow-cooked lamb shoulder, asparagus, baby courgette, sun-blush tomatoes, red wine and olive sauce, while chocolate lovers will go crazy for the Easter Nest (£9.25), a nod to the humble bird’s egg, featuring a divine chocolate sponge, piled with dark and white chocolate mousse and Kataifi pastry and topped off with chocolate eggs and lemon balm.
Complementing the dishes in true style is the limited edition cocktail menu – featuring an Easter twist on three classic aperitifs, a Chocolate Negroni (£10.25), an Easter Egg Martini (£10.95) and a White Rabbit G&T (£10.25).
The Ivy on the Square has launched a delectable new menu embracing the flavours of spring.
With a sense of freshness and renewal, guests will be taken on a journey of rediscovery with a selection of delights featuring ingredients that the new season brings to our tables.
Launched on the official first day of spring, diners can enjoy a series of seasonal favourites that spotlight the best of British ingredients.
The new menu will feature a number of artisanal British suppliers, with dishes including Garden Pea & Nettle Soup (£6.95), Grilled Asparagus with Szechuan mayonnaise, capers, flaked almonds, quail’s egg and watercress (£8.50), The Ivy Shepherd’s Pie with slow-braised lamb and beef, red wine sauce, and Isle of Mull Cheddar potato mash (£14.50), and a renewed selection of steaks, all truly capturing the essence of the changing seasons.
A spokesperson for Isle of Mull Cheese, said:‘We are delighted that The Ivy on the Square has chosen to include our farmhouse cheese on their menu, showcasing our island produce.
‘The sharp and deep flavours of our cheese will make this dish extra special. Our cheese has long running heritage, so it is great to see it being used by contemporary restaurants who appreciate the work that has gone into making it.’
Those with a sweet tooth will be able to enjoy a new Black Bee Honey and White Chocolate Cheesecake (£9.25), featuring UK-based Black Bee Honey and accompanied by mango sorbet, honeycomb and edible flowers.
Alongside new dishes, guests will be able to enjoy a delicious and refreshing selection of spring cocktails, including a Raspberry Mojito (£9.75), incorporating Havana Club Rum, lime, sugar, fresh mint and Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur, and a Smoked Islay Rob Roy (£9.75), featuring a sumptuous blend of Chivas 12yr old Blended Scotch, Noilly Prat, Belsazar, Red Vermouth, Angostura Bitters and a Laphroaig mist.
The Ivy on the Square will also be offering a limited-edition dessert this Easter. The Easter Nest (£9.95) is a sumptuous dark and white chocolate mousse, accompanied by Kataifi pastry, chocolate sponge and lemon balm, available on Easter weekend only from Friday, 15 to Monday, 18 April.
Agata Lubera, General Manager at The Ivy on the Square, comments: “With reimagined favourites alongside a selection of new dishes, our new menu celebrates the best ingredients the spring season has to offer.
“A visit to The Ivy is the perfect reawakening of the senses after a long winter.”
Gordon Ramsay to open new restaurant at St James Quarter
Gordon Ramsay Street Burger will be opening its first Scottish based restaurant in a flagship location at St James Quarter
St James Quarter confirms another meaty arrival with Gordon Ramsay Street Burger set to open its first restaurant in Scotland.
Gordon Ramsay Street Burger will open within the Ribbon building at levels 4 and 5 of St James Quarter, opposite the Everyman Cinema which opens its doors in April this year.
The Gordon Ramsay team will elevate its concept for the Edinburgh branch, bringing a games lounge, DJ booth and stunning interiors designed by internationally acclaimed Russell Sage Studio.
The news follows the recent announcement of the March opening of Ka Pao, an East Asian restaurant from Glasgow that was presented a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin guide, a prize awarded to outlets offering exceptional quality cuisine at accessible prices.
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter,commented: “It’s been a big week for St James Quarter with a number of iconic brands confirmed to be joining the family.
“We are delighted that Gordon Ramsay has chosen a flagship space within The Quarter for Street Burger’s Scottish debut. Edinburgh is clearly a city close to his heart and we think our guests will be wowed by what he and his team have got planned for the space.”
St James Quarter has gone from strength to strength since opening in June 2021, and offers an impressive and growing list of names at the retail led destination, which includes & Other Stories, Mango, Zara, REISS, Bershka, Pull & Bear, Stradivarius, Miele, Next, H&M, JD Sports, John Lewis and many more.
Raise a dram to Robert Burns in style at The Ivy on the Square, where guests will be treated to a limited-edition menu featuring some traditional Scottish favourites with an Ivy twist.
On Tuesday, 25 January, diners can enjoy a good helping of Scottish cuisine with classic Burns Night dishes, including a Haggis Neeps and Tatties Shepherd’s Pie, and the regular favourite Oatmeal-rolled Lathallan Haggis Bon Bons. For those with a sweet tooth, the menu also features a Hazelnut Praline Parfait.
Additional themed cocktails will be available alongside entertainment that will pay tribute to Robert Burns and his work. Get ready for some poetry, pipes and drams!
Cocktails include My Love Is Like a Red, Red, Rose (£9.75) a whisky lover’s twist on the classic Bramble cocktail with Highland Park 12 Year Old Whisky, lemon juice, sugar and a float of Crème de Mure; and My Heart Is In The Highlands (£12.75) a wonderfully indulgent champagne cocktail with Highland Park 12 Year Old Whisky, Grand Marnier & The Ivy Champagne poured carefully over a sugar cube soaked in Angostura Bitters.
To view the full menu and make a reservation, visit TheIvyEdinburgh.com
