First Look: Ottolenghi Edinburgh Opens on George Street

Ottolenghi Edinburgh hosted its exclusive preview at 92 George Street, ahead of its official public opening on Friday, 2 October 2026. The event saw a massive turnout of the capital's food elite and notable figures—including author Ian Rankin and broadcaster Kirsty Wark—descending on the newly renovated New Town premises.

The atmosphere was electric as Ottolenghi and Skye-born Executive Head Chef Neil Campbell addressed the room from the venue's staircase. Ottolenghi spoke emotionally about the intense team effort behind the quick transformation of the old Italian restaurant Ragù, noting a personal full-circle moment after first falling in love with the city during a university exchange programme back in the 1990s.

The newly transformed space captures a vibrant Mediterranean aesthetic, leaning into a design that immediately sets a welcoming tone. There are bold red pillars, a distinct back bar featuring funky contemporary lighting, and an exceptionally attractive private dining space. In true Yotam fashion, the chef's reverence for fresh ingredients was front and centre; dramatic, candlelit arrangements (resembling Dutch still-life paintings) of raw kohlrabi, carrots, beetroots, and fennel were staged throughout the room.

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Managing this packed, high-pressure launch crowd was a front-of-house team that proved to be effortlessly professional and friendly. This sense of genuine hospitality extended directly from the chef himself; Yotam was highly present, modest, and engaged throughout the proceedings. He spoke passionately about his commitment to working closely with local staff, artists, and producers, emphasising that he had no intention of simply "landing in Edinburgh from London" without roots.

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This dedication to local integration was tasted immediately on the floor as a steady rotation of tapas-sized canapés showcased how the brand's signature, flavour-driven Middle Eastern flavours seamlessly blend with Scottish produce.

The absolute showstopper of the evening, however, was Yotam's personal recommendation. When Mrs Bite asked him which single dish shouldn't be missed, the chef pointed to the smoked haddock, potato, and fennel bake, slow-cooked in a clay pot and finished with a rich lemon butter sauce. Sampled in small teaser portions, the dish is an absolute triumph—smoky, comforting, and deeply delicious—proving beyond a doubt that this exciting new venture is going to live up to its sky-high expectations when it officially opens to the public on Friday, 2 October 2026.

Ottolenghi - 92 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 3DF - 0131 388 1888