How to cure a crippling hangover in just five easy courses @ Duck & Waffle by The Social Bitches

Derek and Isaac

The morning after the night before, these bitches feel like absolute death. Following endless wine, cheeky cocktails, and the enthusiastic singing of '90s power ballads at a saucy West End piano bar, we find ourselves in a coma-like state neither coffee or prescription medication can alleviate. Our only hope … is brunch.

So, eyes like pinholes, heads spinning, and a wave of nausea now in its second fun-filled hour, we arrive at Duck & Waffle. Fortunately, Tatum, our host, is beyond fabulous and reassuringly says: But you guys look amazing, not to mention impeccably dressed.

Naturally, we LOVE her, attributing this minor miracle to the power of ambient lighting and a well-fitted blazer. But even more impressive, Tatum encourages us to take our time with the menu, as she already has Cheesy Croquetas and Bacon-wrapped Dates en route, not to mention our first round of mimosas. 

Cheesy Croquetas

The bites are seriously lush, especially the dates, thanks to a sinful mix of chorizo, mustard and manchego cheese. But what’s really slowing down the speed at which the room is spinning, those mimosas! Playfully called a Tropic of Conversation, they combine passionfruit liqueur, pineapple, Cointreau and bubbles to invigorating effect.

We’re also equally impressed with the flamboyant decor and its duck-centric artwork, which brings both dazzle and a real sense of fun. And then there’s the friendly staff, who often stop by just to say “hey” even when they’re not the ones bringing your food. 

Speaking of which, Tatum insists we not hold back when it comes to their all-day brunch. Dangerous words that soon see us enjoying another round of mimosas, along with Colombian Eggs - scrambled with tomato, spring onion and avocado, then topped with gorgeous smoked salmon - and of course, the signature dish of Duck & Waffle.

Mimosas

Its crispy leg confit with fried duck egg and maple syrup is a sublime mix of savoury and sweet. It also has us feeling almost human, finally able to embrace a bottle of Bovey Crémant, paired with … drumroll please … the outstanding Foie Gras creme brûlée with pork crackling and marmalade, served alongside a brioche bun.

OH MY GOD! It’s the most wonderfully indulgent delicacy imaginable. A perfect contrast of flavour, texture, sugar and salt, as well as being smoother than Mr Barry White at sexy time. Consider us both [ aside from a little trembling, the odd hallucination ] totes cured!

But just to make sure - and with Tatum’s heartfelt encouragement - we’re thinking maybe another splash of Crémant wouldn’t go amiss, plus the Dry-aged Beef Burger with mature cheddar, bacon & chilli jam, fried egg and exceptional special sauce, finished off with the joy that is a Deep-fried Mars Bar and fudge sauce.

Now that Bitches is how you cure a hangover.

Duck & Waffle - St James Quarter, Edinburgh EH1 3AE - 0131 2022700

Sun - Wed 9am - 12am, Thu - Sat 9am - 1am, All Day Brunch available from 11am - 4pm