Boasting the regal blue, red and gold of its sister ship Britannia, and of course, being fabulously lit, arriving at Fingal is a breathtaking experience. Add to that its five-star credentials as a hotel, along with two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, and we say: Thank god we’re currently - and always - SO well-dressed.
Sure enough, we’re greeted by a handsome man on reception who insists we’ll be the best-attired by far [ We hear that a lot, but somehow it never gets old]. Though before we so much as ponder a glass of something cheeky, first a quick tour.
With its 23 luxury cabins, magnificent ballroom, sweeping staircases, and raised gangway through the former engine room, this is a venue hard to beat. But the real surprise? Our unique, fine dining experience is just £80 for three courses. Ding dong!
Which brings us to Lighthouse Restaurant [ so named, as Fingal once delivered supplies, repairs and people to Scotland’s lighthouses ]. Naturally, it too is beautiful, intimate, and full of stylish touches - such as its dazzling bar, and servers wearing white gloves.
Soon, we’re soaking up both the atmosphere and the outstanding cocktails. Our faves: Infinity, combining several choice whiskies with Pedro Ximenez & chocolate bitters to spectacular effect; plus Yard No.140 with rum, tropical spice and joy in equal measure.
Then it’s on to our first course: Eyemouth Crab with dill, apple, mandarin, avocado, and the welcome crunch of hazelnut. So incredibly fresh, its every flavour, every texture just pops. Even more sublime, the Gressingham confit duck - spiced, pressed, then served with lush carrot chutney and gel of Italian citrus.
Both dishes look and taste like works of art, demonstrating the same attention to detail we see everywhere aboard this ship. And as we happily move to our mains, via a second spectacular bottle of Riesling, things only get better.
The Black Isle Beef with tomato fondue, creamy mushroom croquette, and an intense jus of Madeira & truffle is yet another triumph. As is the sumptuous Strathdon Red Deer with port-roasted fig - ooosh! - and heavenly sauce of game & redcurrant.
Hoping to burn off as many as three calories [ #fatty_boom_4_life ] it’s a quick spin around deck, before returning for dessert, plus as a naughty bottle of Tokaji Aszú, reputed to be the world’s oldest and finest dessert wine.
It’s of course in great company, as we dive into a saucy Éclair with sliced pear, Pedro Ximenez & cinnamon cream, alongside a wonderfully rich Almond Tart topped with chocolate icing, chocolate chards & caramelised hazelnut sauce.
One bite into this spectacular meal, we were already planning our return. But now these bitches want to check in, and maybe … well, alright then … one more teensy bottle of vino!
Fingal - Alexandra Dock, Leith EH6 7DX - 0131 357 5000
Dinner served daily from 6 pm - 9 pm / Three courses £80, paired wines £30
Also available: Afternoon Tea & Cocktails
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