The Cocktail Mafia in the West End has fully established itself on Edinburgh's cocktail scene for its creative concoctions and cool, trendy decor. With a varied menu of classics and innovative mixes, along with a range of variations on a pornstar martini and sharing pitchers, it is easy to see why it has become so popular. Since it opened the bar has been expanding its offering since opening in 2021 and now offers private parties and cocktail masterclasses.
However, one thing that was missing was food. And with a kitchen sitting empty and rents and energy prices sky high, a collab with another local business was the obvious solution.
Cue Delightfully Delicious, already well known and receiving rave reviews for their cafe in Marchmont. With a focus on American comfort food, the partnership is a good match for The Cocktail Mafia's American prohibition/gangster movie aesthetic. Plus, what could be better for soaking up strong liquor than a plate of buttermilk chicken?
Delightfully Delicious are justifiably famous for their fried chicken, served with waffles on their brunch menu. On Charlotte Lane it comes as is, with cajun seasoning, with korean wing sauce, in a burger and in a Hoagie roll, but there are also beef burgers, steak sandwiches, chicken/cauliflower wings, loaded fries and nachos on the menu.
On my recent visit just after Valentine's Day, my guest and I opt for the Veggie Nachos, Buttermilk Chicken with Korean sauce, Cajun Chicken Po Boi, and South American Loaded Fries with steak, chimichurri and chilli jam. While similar food can be acquired around the city, we were really impressed with the freshness and quality of the ingredients as well as the flavours of the homemade sauces.
The food was washed down by a delicious take on a French martini with chocolate (The Marie Antionette), a citrus and floral Japanese Hibiscus, a sweet and strong Black Forest with rum and cherry brandy, and a Dear Rosemary, which expertly balanced whisky with rosemary, blackcurrant and lemon.
We were certainly feeling the love and very much hope this perfect match will stand the test of time.
The Cocktail Mafia, 15 Charlotte Lane, Edinburgh, EH2 4 QZ - 0131 629 1818.
Food served: Mon-Thurs 6-10:30, Fri-Sat 6-11, Sun 6-10
