
The Dine family of restaurants comprises three neighbourhood-style venues in Craiglockhart, Murrayfield, and Canomills. Then there is the first flagship restaurant which was opened in 2015 and is located above The Traverse Theatre in the beating heart of the city. This is where my friend Kate and I choose for a catch-up over lunch.
The sun is shining and spring is in the air as we arrive at Saltire Court and climb the stairs past Dine’s signature moss wall to the beautiful restaurant with polished timbers and a central, captivating, olive tree. Staff are friendly and professional and they greet and seat us with genuine warmth.
Both Kate and I are familiar with this restaurant. I have been a fan of Chef Stuart Muir since his days as the Michelin-awarded chef at Harvey Nichols. His passion for local produce is evident in both the à la carte and market menus, which showcase the best of the Scottish larder.
I opt for Sweet Cured Rollmop Herrings as a starter. These ‘silver darlings’ are served with a fresh rocket and fennel salad, toasted pine nuts, and a dill and mustard dressing. I love anything pickled and these fish also happen to be one of the best sources of Vitamin D available which is important for Scots in particular. Kate has Haggis with Clapsot and a Whisky Sauce which she describes as “surprisingly light given the generous portion size”.
Kate follows her starter with Beef Featherblade for her main course which has been braised until tender and served with a fruity bell pepper ragout and champ. I enjoy a crispy-skinned, perfectly seasoned Sea Bream on a bed of tasty potatoes and roasted-until-soft courgettes.
After a delightful meal, we find the bill to be around £27, which we consider to be excellent value for the generous plates of food we enjoyed. We are too full to indulge in dessert, but I bet the Chocolate Ganache with Dark Cherries, Orange Gel, and Shortbread would taste as good as it sounds.
The ambience at Dine is relaxed brasserie style and there is a drinks lounge which is ideal for an aperitif or digestif.
Dine’s commitment to quality, local produce, and warm hospitality shines through in every aspect of our experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Edinburgh, a meal at one of their restaurants is sure to be a memorable dining experience. (S. Wilson)
Dine - Saltire Court, 10 (1F) Cambridge Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2ED - 0131 218 18 18
Email: restaurant@dine.scot