Carlo Petrini’s impact on Scotland runs deeper than many realise. In her thoughtful tribute, Cate Devine traces how the Slow Food founder’s ideas have shaped chefs, growers, policymakers and communities across the country — a quiet revolution whose roots now reach from kitchens and markets to allotments, classrooms and culture itself. The steady flow of tributes from across the globe to Carlo Petrini, the Italian founder of the global Slow Food movement who died on May 21, was as wholesome and glowing as the best artisanal olive oil the man himself championed. From New York, Rome, Uganda, Uruguay and beyond, the man who, for 40 years, campaigned against the industrialisation of global food production, was celebrated for changing the way we think about food by promoting sustainable food production and traditional cooking. Petrini named his 1986 movement ‘Slow Food’ in defiance of the opening of a McDonald’s ‘fast-food’ outlet at the Spanish Steps in Rome as he saw this as an alarm call that would make the world wake up to the “criminality” of the global food culture which he believed was in crisis because it put profits before all else and regarded food merely as a commodity. Now Slow Food is active in more than 160 countries worldwide. The Italian actress Isabella Rossellini was inspired by Petrini to found mamafarm in New York, posting that he made her “understand the importance of small organic farms and to retain knowledge and traditions”. But Scotland, too, has been touched by Carlo Petrini and is an active participant in his global movement. Under the Slow Food Scotland banner there are SF membership groups or convivia - so named because Slow Food encourages the ‘convivial’ group sharing and discussion of good food around the table - in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow, with a virtual group that reaches more rural areas. Several members have had the privilege of attending the bi-annual Terra Madre Salone deli Gusto gastronomy events in Turin, also founded by Petrini. These bring together thousands of farmers and producers from hundreds of countries who exchange knowledge and foster a sense of belonging to a global community committed to protecting food and biodiversity. Students of the much-missed MSc Gastronomy course at Edinburgh’s Queen Margaret University learned from him too. It’s fair to say there has been a food revolution in Scotland in recent times. I’d suggest that much of this has been curated by the launch of Scotland’s pioneering Recipe for Success — Scotland’s National Food & Drink Policy (2009), Its ambition to encompass the impact of food and drink on health, the environment, social justice and education to form a Good Food Nation, was surely emboldened by Petrini’s mantra of good food for all, which at the time was gaining momentum across the globe. A range of regional food groups is now active across the country. When I was food writer at The Herald I had a one-to-one interview with Petrini in 2015 when he was at Edinburgh’s Café St Honoré to launch Slow Food Scotland as a newly devolved branch of Slow Food UK (which he described as a “middle-class dining club which could have done more to protect Scotland’s unique food identity and heritage”). He told me: “Scotland is on the brink of a food revolution and is poised to become a great food nation once again. “Scotland is not just whisky and salmon; it has a wonderful tradition of artisan cheesemaking, of soups and broths, and there are some amazing breeds of animals here. The rest of the world envies its lush countryside. "I sense a renewed pride in its specific food heritage and knowledge of food, and see that young farmers and producers are re-engaging in its agricultural past. Your national bard was a farmer, but he didn't work for Nestle. What's starting now in Scotland is beautiful.” The first Farmers’ Market in Scotland - Perth in 1999 and Ayr soon after - had already marked a growing enthusiasm for the field-to-fork movement and pride in local artisan producers and growers. They now number around 36; the steady growth of independent food shops, delis, fishmongers’ and butchers’ shops selling local high-welfare sustainably reared artisan produce and products across the country is their natural progression. Growers, too, such as Locavore, Glasgow’s Greenheart Growers and East Neuk Market Garden, run veg box deliveries. The burgeoning number of younger people on waiting lists for a plot in the country’s network of allotments (32 council-run sites in Glasgow; 32 in Edinburgh; 22 in Aberdeen; three in Stirling; four in Dundee - plus many privately-run plots and community growing spaces) is testimony to a renewed interest in the organic, sustainable, grow-your-own movement that Petrini would surely be proud of. In fact, he described this to me as a “very modern way to live”. I’m convinced it was the Slow Food movement that inspired and encouraged all of this. The Slow Food Cooks’ Alliance has 25 or so members in Scotland and includes chefs Fred Berkmiller of l’Escargot Bleu, Carina Contini of the Contini restaurant group, and Neil Forbes of Cafe St Honore, all in Edinburgh; and in Glasgow Giovanna Eusebi of Eusebi Deli and Peter McKenna of Bistro Eleven Fifty Five (formerly The Gannet). These chefs and cooks are dedicated to preserving Scotland’s culinary biodiversity by championing small-scale producers and promoting “good, clean and fair’ ingredients in their restaurants, cafés and street food outlets. A picture of Petrini leading a colourful slow food parade They are also committed to the Ark of Taste, a “virtual vessel” of rare endangered heritage breeds and seeds and food cultures established by Petrini to encourage their use to keep them from being lost or forgotten. This has had a remarkable impact In Scotland under the stewardship of Wendy Barrie, editor of the Scottish Food Guide. At present there are 50 products or breeds including Isle of Skye sea salt, Anster cheese, salt herring, reestit mutton, the Selkirk bannock, the Musselburgh leek, Shetland cabbage/kale, Traditional Ayrshire Dunlop cheese, Birch Water from Birken Tree, Original Arbroath Smokies, Wild Scottish Juniper, Bere barley, Isle of Barra Snails, the Aberdeen Buttery or Rowie, Hebridean sheep, Cadzow cattle and Native Aberdeen Angus. Wendy says: “Carlo’s legacy lives on throughout Scotland.” Chef Neil Forbes, who has been to Terra Madre a few times, says: “We all eat differently because of Carlo Petrini.” Slow Food also encompasses Slow Wine. So let’s raise a glass of Italian indigenous-grape wine from a small-scale producer and say: “Saluti, Carlo, and slàinte!” Cate Devine is an award winning food journalist and former Food & Drink Editor of The Herald.

A few weeks ago, I went to the opening night for Uncle Tiger, a new Asian-fusion restaurant with a fun pop-up menu twist. Tempting delights floated through the crowd, and I was instantly addicted to the flavours and fancies on offer. As everyone’s “fun, favourite uncle”, keeping it fresh, fun and fascinating is what Uncle Tiger is all about. While I’m a creature of habit who frequents the same places and eats the same meals on repeat so I am intrigued by the concept of a rotating menu. And last night I was lucky enough to be invited to experience everything Uncle Tiger has to offer… this time around. The menus rotate in a ‘series’ – well, that’s how the staff introduced the Uncle Tiger concept to us. And Series 2, ‘Golden Gai Time’, is in full swing until the end of June. Golden Gai is a famous pocket of Tokyo made up of tiny, smoke-filled bars packed side by side, where the focus is simple food, skewers and strong drinks, with a big emphasis on kushiyaki-style grilling. On opening night several weeks ago, I discovered the delights of their Peach and Plum tonic that they make in-house. So tonight, I know my habitual creature is going to want more and I let it indulge. On several. After an in-depth explanation of the menu, Riley and I are lost in an abundance of choice. The current Series, Golden Gai Time, is inspired by Japanese izakaya – small bars serving bite-size, smoke-infused, delectably-grilled, punch-you-in-the-mouth-with-flavour dishes that tempt you to order more. The staff recommend one Ippin dish, two Yakitori, and one Agemono - per person. They don’t have to tell us twice! Before we know it, our table is filled with intrigues. The debate was on: what was our favourite of the night? Riley and I both agree that the BBQ Chicken Thigh with soy tare, spring onions and white sesame is an instant win. So much so that when I take a bite, I stop mid-sentence and gesture emphatically at the dish, and then at Riley, as she nods in agreement - as if she hasn’t just experienced the same delight. Alongside perfectly Braised Beef and crunchy Karage Chicken, we are pleasantly surprised by and easily swooned by our Ippin choices. The fresh and zingy punch of the Tsukemono (Japanese Pickles) becomes my ideal palate cleanser, something to indulge in between bites of smoky mains. And Riley informs the lovely assistant manager that she’d easily eat an entire bowl of the Tataki Kyuri, (smashed cucmber) and I can’t disagree. I mostly leave her to eat it, concerned that if I try to take too much, she’ll bite my hand. To end the evening, we are told about the two desserts on offer – a Thousand Layer Apple Cake with Deep-Fried Ginger Ice Cream, and a Strawberry Custard Bao; the assistant manager takes one look at our faces and says, “I’ll bring you both”. It was perhaps the wisest decision of the night. Uncle Tiger - 3 Bristo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 1EY - 0131 287 8722 Open Wed to Sat 5pm – 10pm Uncle Tiger’s new ‘Golden Gai Time’ menu includes okonomiyaki, hash brown, BBQ cabbage, pancake and kewpie; BBQ chicken thigh with soy tare, spring onion and white sesame; agedashi tofu, daikon, scallion and pickled ginger; crispy chicken skin with sweetcorn puree and nori sansho; watermelon tataki, blackened sishito, preserved lemon and scallions; and BBQ braised beef, yuzu kosho, semi-dried tomato and shiitake.

Thursday nights just got a whole lot more delicious. Bite has teamed up with Harajuku Kitchen to bring you Tanpin Tasting Night — a weekly, small‑plate Japanese dining experience where you build your own trio of Tanpin favourites for just £21.95. Tanpin is Harajuku Kitchen’s signature small‑plate menu: vibrant, comforting, flavour‑packed dishes designed for mixing, matching and sharing. Tanpin Tasting Night gives you the freedom to explore Japanese cooking at its most playful — three dishes, endless combinations. 🔥 Hot Tanpin favourites Kara‑age Chicken — crisp, juicy, soy‑marinated chicken with daikon dare Sticky Sweet Chilli Kara‑age — coated in a sweet chilli sesame glaze Pork Gyoza — Scottish free‑range pork, cabbage & chives, chilli soy vinegar King Prawn Gyoza — hand‑folded, ginger‑bright, served with chilli soy vinegar Vegetable Gyoza — cabbage, aubergine, onion & chives, vegan‑friendly Takoyaki — octopus pancake balls with mayo, bonito & aonori Agedashi Tofu — fried tofu with ginger, radish & tentsuyu Aubergine in Sweet Soy Chilli — aromatic, glossy, addictive Aubergine in Miso Sesame — rich miso depth with toasted sesame Edamame — salted or chilli‑tossed ❄️ Cold Tanpin favourites Cucumber Kimchi — crisp, spicy, refreshing Kaiso Seaweed & Pickled Daikon — soy‑sesame brightness with tangy daikon Fluffy Potato Salad — Japanese‑style, creamy, comforting Why you will love it Tanpin Tasting Night is designed for people who love flavour, variety and a little mid‑week adventure. It’s relaxed, great value, and gives you the chance to try dishes you might not normally order — all inside one of Edinburgh’s most loved Japanese kitchens. Read our Bite review of Harajuku here It’s also exclusive to Bite, meaning you won’t find this offer anywhere else. How it works Book your space through Bite — payment is taken upfront. Arrive anytime between 5pm and 7:15 pm on a Thursday. Choose any 3 dishes from the Tanpin Tasting Menu. Drinks are ordered and paid for directly at Harajuku Kitchen. Customer T&Cs Full payment of £21.95 per person is taken at the time of booking. £21.95 covers food only; drinks are paid separately to Harajuku and billed on the night All bookings are non‑refundable. Valid only for the Thursday 5pm–7:15 pm window selected. Cannot be redeemed outside this window. No walk‑ins — offer available only to Bite bookings. Allergies can be declared at the restaurant, but only dishes listed on the Tanpin Tasting Menu can be guaranteed Mixed groups (Bite + non‑Bite diners) will receive separate bills. This voucher gives you access to the Tanpin Tasting offer; seating is allocated on arrival within the 5pm–7:15pm window. Harajuku Kitchen is at 10 Gillespie Place, Edinburgh EH10 4HS - 0131 285 8182

I recently took part in the Fish & Shellfish Day Course at Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, a place best known for its rigorous professional training alongside an impressive range of recreational courses — relaxed, hands-on sessions designed for food lovers, groups and teams looking to cook, learn and have fun together. I chose this particular session because — let’s be honest — fish, bivalves and their armour‑plated, crustacean pals can be intimidating. Hard shells, sharp claws, the fear of overcooking, undercooking or accidentally poisoning oneself… It's a lot. As a committed fish lover with all the usual anxieties, this felt like exactly the course I needed. A sunny Edinburgh morning was the perfect backdrop for a day devoted to overcoming my fishy fears, so I made my way into the polished yet welcoming Academy on Queen Street. The building is light, airy and unmistakably professional, with a gleaming teaching kitchen already humming as our friendly group gathered, tied on aprons and settled in. Aisha, with Maria by her side, eased us into the day over coffee before giving a calm, clear demonstration on how to humanely dispatch both a lobster and a crab. With lesson one under our belts, we moved straight into the hands‑on work: tackling gambas, cleaning mussels, preparing squid, cooking fish en papillote and learning how to fillet a plump silver sea bass — though, as Aisha reminded us, the technique applies to almost any fish. In between all that slicing, cleaning and shell‑cracking, we paused for a lunch that felt like a reward in itself: a bright lobster and grapefruit salad followed by mussels in a buttery parsley and white wine sauce. It was the kind of meal that makes the swotting feel instantly worthwhile. Having time and access to professional chefs — and all their hard‑won tips — is genuinely priceless, and the camaraderie of learning alongside like‑minded people only adds to the fun. I left feeling properly confident: I can now fillet a fish, tackle squid and gambas, and, when required, steel myself to deal with lobster and crab. (Though I’ll be honest — I’m still perfectly prepared to pay a chef to do those last two for me. Dead Man's Fingers still give me the ick.) What the course really sharpened was my appreciation for the sheer quality of good produce — in this case from Welch Fishmongers — and the amount of care, prep and labour that goes into putting such beautiful seafood on a plate. And that’s before you even consider the work that happens out at sea (see Trawlermen). It’s a whole chain of skill, graft and respect for the ingredient, and spending a day inside that process makes you see it differently. Let's do lunch With so many tempting classes coming up — from the Scone Masterclass and Scottish Baking Class, to Pasta Pronto, Mastering Macarons, Soufflé Masterclass, Perfecting Choux Pastry, Curries from Around the World, A Taste of Mexico, and even the WSET Level 1 in Wine — there’s genuinely something for every appetite and ability. They make brilliant gifts or a treat for yourself, and with 15% off all One & Half Day Classes this May Bank Holiday using code MAYBH15, it’s an ideal moment to book in and learn something new at the Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy. For more information or to secure a place, you can contact the Academy directly on +44 (0) 131 226 4314, email info@efda.co.uk for general enquiries or visit them in person at 7 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JE.

Celestia has quietly become one of Edinburgh’s most exciting modern Indian restaurants — elegant, inventive, and rooted in deep flavour. Now, Celestia is opening its doors to Bite readers for an exclusive dining experience available Monday to Thursday, 6pm–7.30pm. For £29.95 per person (food only), guests can enjoy a curated selection from Celestia’s à la carte menu — the same dishes that have made it one of the city’s most talked‑about new openings. Drinks are paid separately on the night, keeping the focus firmly on the food. This is a Bite Exclusive: limited, premium, and a chance to try one of Edinburgh’s most exciting kitchens in a way that feels personal, premium, and unmistakably Bite. ⭐ What’s Included Chutneys & Poppadoms, Starter (excl, seafood appetisers), Main Course, (excl. Clay Oven dishes) Rice and Naan - per person. Fixed price £29.95 Drinks paid separately on the night Pre‑payment required to secure your booking Only available to Bite readers — walk‑ins cannot redeem this offer This is a curated Bite drop: small, special, and designed to showcase Celestia at its best. Read the Bite review of Celestia here Customer Terms & Conditions 1. Pre‑payment required - full payment of £29.95 per person is taken at the time of booking. 2. Food‑only - your £29.95 covers food only. Drinks are not included and must be paid for separately on the night. 3. No refunds - all bookings are non‑refundable. 4. Illness transfers only -If you are unwell, you may transfer your booking to another person. 5. Valid only for the date and time booked - This offer cannot be redeemed on any other day or time. 6. Walk‑ins cannot redeem this offer - only Bite exclusive bookings qualify. 7. Menu availability - dishes are subject to availability. Some premium dishes may carry a supplement or be excluded. 8. Service charge - any service charge added by the restaurant applies to drinks only 9.Please note that this deal excludes seafood appetizers and clay oven mains. 10.Late arrivals may reduce service time. 11.Allergies can be declared at the restaurant but may not be catered if they are not on the list of available dishes. 12.Mixed groups (Bite + non‑Bite diners) will receive separate bills. 13.This voucher gives access to the offer, not a reserved table. Seating is based on live availability within the window. Why We Love This Drop Bite Exclusives are built to feel like insider access — small‑batch dining nights that let readers experience standout restaurants without the usual price tag or pressure. Celestia fits that mould perfectly: refined, intimate, and confident enough to let the food speak for itself. Celestia is at 18 Eyre Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5EP - 0131 287 2914 Open everyday

Happy May, everyone — we hear the sun is about to make an appearance, and we’ve got plenty of sunshine‑worthy events and restaurants for you to look forward to. Our summer issue is online now and will be out in print from the end of May. Newsworthy Mutti Pasta Sauce Tour brings its Italian roadshow to Edinburgh — free pasta, free sauce, and a taste of Italy on Castle Street. Malones Edinburgh announces a £500,000 investment in a major Haymarket expansion ahead of the World Cup. Reservations We will be visiting Scott’s Kitchen as it celebrates 36 years of the Howies family of restaurants. Fish & Seafood Class at the Edinburgh New Town Food & Drink Academy — sharpen your skills and your knives. We are keen to visit Flùr as we hear good things Kirsty has been to The Auld Hundred and will report back in due course. Where We Sipped & Savoured Simone & Mrs Bite visited The Cottage for their über‑seasonal tasting menu — wonderful to see this heritage building and garden back in good stewardship. Eleonore went to a one‑off Sabzi x Macau Kitchen secret‑menu night. The Social Bitches popped many a “Pommers” at Garden View Deck & Bar at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Summer Issue Online now — go read it. This issue is packed with news & reviews but also: Diana (Wine Events Scotland) interviewing three Edinburgh sommeliers Fiona Richmond (Food & Drink Scotland) reviewing Whiskies Galore Lea on the joys of foraging Colin Hinds (Whisky Midgie) talking all things whisky Rachel exploring Asian ingredients in baking The Cottage Edinburgh Exclusives (good stuff) We partner with some of the best restaurants in the city — and we want Bite readers to enjoy them at prices that feel like a treat, not a splurge. We’re introducing early‑evening tasting menus and exclusive offers across food and wine. Only excellent quality. Only places we genuinely rate. Foodies Festival Fizz Feast All You Need is Rhône Celestia Indian Fine Dining Offer Tanpin Tasting Menu at Harajuku 👉 Tickets for all here

Malones Edinburgh has announced a major £500,000 investment in the venue, building on a strong period of growth for the business and marking the next stage in its expansion near Haymarket. The half-a-million-pound investment will see the popular Irish bar create a brand-new 200-capacity function room, while also delivering upgrades across the existing venue. Work is due to take place in May, with the venue remaining open throughout the refurbishment and the new space expected to open in early June. The investment plans also include the development and reopening of their kitchen, which will create jobs and bring the group’s famous spice bag to the West End of Edinburgh. All purpose events & entertainment space Located near Haymarket, Malones Edinburgh says the investment is a direct response to growing demand in one of Edinburgh’s busiest and fastest-evolving areas, with increasing numbers of offices, hotels, gigs, locals and events at Murrayfield driving footfall. Designed as a purpose-built events and entertainment space, the new room will feature a private bar, AV and screen setup, a stage, and a flexible layout, allowing it to host everything from conferences and corporate events to weddings, comedy nights, gigs and birthday parties. Guests will be invited to hire their own Irish bar for the night, whatever the occasion may be. It will also create a new destination for major sporting occasions, giving guests a dedicated space to gather for big-match viewing in a setting that stays true to the character and atmosphere Malones is known for. The expansion builds on a strong period for the business. In November 2025, Malones Edinburgh won SLTN’s Best Venue to Watch the Match, further cementing its reputation as one of Scotland’s standout sports hospitality destinations. The venue was also the only Edinburgh bar to be awarded for their reamy pints, featuring in the Guinness Harp Guide, Guinness’ guide to what it considers the best pints in the UK. The hospitality industry has faced a troubling business climate over the last few years. Malones Edinburgh’s investment signals a belief in the future of the industry and of the local area. Simon Keane, Owner of Malones Edinburgh, said: “Investing into Malones Edinburgh is a huge statement of intent for us. Hospitality has had a tough time, but we believe strongly in what we’re building here and in the future of this part of Edinburgh. We’re creating a space that celebrates our Irish community while bringing commerce & jobs to this part of the city.” “We’ve seen real demand for a space that can do more – this investment allows us to host a comedy night, a corporate event, a music gig, and show the football all at the same time. We’re responding to that demand while staying true to what people already love about Malones.” “We’re proud of how far the business has come, especially off the back of winning SLTN’s Best Venue to Watch the Match and being the only Edinburgh venue featured in the Guinness Harp Guide. This next chapter is about building on that momentum, creating more reasons for people to come to Haymarket, and giving guests the chance to hire their own Irish bar for the night.” The investment is also expected to support team expansion and a broader events programme, helping bring more locals and tourists into the area. The venue is now taking enquiries for function room bookings and events from June 2026 onwards.

Edinburgh food lovers, clear your diaries. The Muti Pasta Sauce Tour is rolling into Castle Street on 26–27 May, bringing with it a beautiful Italian street kitchen on wheels — and thousands of free portions of pasta and jars of Mutti’s award‑winning sauce. The 127‑year‑old, family‑run tomato brand from Parma has become something of a quiet obsession among chefs, food writers and home cooks across the UK. Now, Mutti is taking that love on the road, visiting seven major cities throughout May, including London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Cardiff — and of course, Edinburgh. What to Expect at the Mutti Street Kitchen Turn up hungry. Everything is free. A hot serving of freshly cooked pasta, tossed in Mutti’s Pasta Sauce with Basil and prepared right in front of you. A free jar of Mutti Pasta Sauce with Basil to take home — a Great Taste Award Winner 2025. A spin‑to‑win game with the chance to bag exclusive Mutti merchandise and extra Mutti products. No tickets. No booking. Just show up between 10am and 6pm. Why People Are Obsessed with Mutti At the heart of the tour is Mutti’s Pasta Sauce with Basil — a jar built on two uncompromising ingredients: Tomatoes grown in Parma’s “Food Valley”, harvested at peak ripeness and processed within 24 hours. No concentrates. No reconstituting. Just fresh tomatoes, treated with respect. Basilico Genovese PDO, one of Italy’s most prized basil varieties, grown only in the microclimate around Genoa. Fragrant, protected, and the real deal. The result? A sauce with no additives, no preservatives, no added sugar — just tomatoes, basil, and the kind of minimal processing that lets the ingredients speak for themselves. Mutti’s wider pasta sauce range follows the same philosophy, built on their signature Polpa and crafted to taste like something from an Italian kitchen, not a factory line. 📍 Edinburgh Tour Details Location: Castle Street Dates: 26–27 May Time: 10am–6pm Price: Completely free Tickets: Not required Don’t Miss It Whether you’re already a Mutti devotee or simply curious about the hype, this is your chance to taste Italy’s most beloved tomatoes — cooked fresh, served hot, and handed out by the jar. Seven cities. Thousands of free jars. One very good reason to wander down Castle Street. Follow Mutti at @muttipomodorouk or visit Mutti Experience for more details.

On a day that could genuinely pass for Spring, these sun-starved Bitches are happily soaking up the rays - and of course, an absolute shedload of Champagne - while attending the launch of the fabulous, and newly refurbished, Garden View Deck & Bar at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. A select soirée made all the more divine by its gloriously green outlook, exceptional food, and inspired collaboration with Maison Pommery & Associés - a family-owned Champagne house renowned for sustainability and biodiversity. Its joyful mantra: healthy soil, happy grapes, endless fizz. Ding Dong! To the agreement of all present, not only are we Best Dressed [ Seriously, again?? Stop it! ] there’s also a consensus that this has the potential to be one of the city’s best alfresco experiences. Sun, bubbles and blissful grazing. Then in time - we hope - late closing plus saucy DJ who leans towards shirtlessness. For now at least, a playful soundtrack of French pop is definitely hitting the spot. As is the mountain of artisan cheese, seasonal pickle, and of course what can only be called one’s third bottle of “Pommers.” All of which prompts Isaac to remark just how lovely it is to get out of the city. In reality, we’ve travelled a mere seven minutes to get here. But spiritually? We’re somewhere between the Amalfi Coast and breaking our lifetime vow NEVER to wear boat shoes. Suffice to say, the vibe is utterly delicious. Which brings us - via eighteen slices of lush stone baked pizza - to the Garden View’s catering partner, the legendary Heritage Portfolio. Who, for close on three decades, has been at all the best parties, and created our favourite afternoon tea - at the beautiful Signet Library. Unsurprisingly, their work here is equally top notch. Even better, it makes full use of ingredients grown and foraged at the Botanics. Lush case in the point: the Beetroot Hummus with lemon rapeseed oil and freshly baked focaccia. Silky smooth, sweet, and wonderfully earthy - we highly reccommend! They’ve also whipped up a gorgeous series of spritzes, bringing the likes of Aperol, Limoncello, and Glenmorangie Single Malt to the party. Though while we fully plan to indulge - and soon - right now we’re thinking there’s at least two more magnums of fizz vying for our attention. Fortunately, the friendly, brilliantly attentive staff can spot an empty champagne flute at fifty paces. Which alongside the scenery, food and libations, gives this venue a definite five stars. Though, if management could just consider our thoughts on late closing and shirtless DJ, we’ll gladly make it six! (Derek & Isaac aka The Social Bitches) Garden View Deck & Bar - Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh John Hope Gateway, West Gate Entrance, Arboretum Place, EH3 5NZ Friday & Saturday 12pm - 8pm, Sunday 12pm - 5pm

When Sabzi, a Punjabi restaurant, joins forces with the Portuguese-Chinese fusion of Macau Kitchen, the result is a pop-up experience that transcends simple dining. Hosted by Sabzi’s charismatic Stevie Singh and Macau Kitchen's masterful Chef Kei De Freitas, the evening feels like an intimate invitation into their shared culinary heritage. Chef Kei, a natural storyteller, guides us through the provenance of each dish, while Stevie ensures the hospitality is as warm as the spices. We begin, somewhat bravely, with a Tripe Salad. For those wary of entrails, this is a revelation: refreshing, light, and beautifully balanced with shredded cabbage, chilli, and a nutty crunch from toasted chickpeas and peanuts. The journey continues with Dahi Pani Puri. These delicate semolina shells shatter to release a cooling burst of yoghurt, spices and chutney. A "gastronomic" pork-filled version before, offering a deep, savoury contrast to the crisp shell. Next is a textbook Chicken Pakora, cooked on the bone and expertly fried in rapeseed to a golden crunch without a hint of oiliness, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon that makes the spices sing. A seemingly simple dish elevated by perfect execution. The mains arrive with a surprising Salmon Curry. While salmon is a Northern staple, here it is treated with South Asian reverence, bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce. However, the true showstopper is the Goan Vindaloo. Chef Kei explains the secret: coconut vinegar. Using succulent Peebles' pork belly (it must have five layers), the dish achieves a sublime equilibrium between the sweetness of the coconut, the fat and the sharp tang of the vinegar. A side of fermented chilli chutney provides a clever, fiery palate cleanser. We conclude with a silk-smooth Mousse of salted egg yolk and coconut milk with glimpse of vanilla and cardamom. Topped with pistachios and almonds feel rich and yet deceptively light. The night ends on a high note with the rhythmic beat of a Punjabi drum, a joyful thank you to a sold-out crowd. While this was a one-off event, the synergy between these two kitchens is undeniable. If you haven't visited Sabzi or Macau Kitchen individually, move them to the top of your list immediately. Review of Sabzi Review of Macau Kitchen Sabzi - 162 Ferry Road, Edinburgh EH6 4NX - +44131 378 8361 Opening hours: Monday-Tuesday closed, Wednesday-Sunday 5pm-9pm

Contini George Street has launched a feel‑good Edinburgh collaboration this May, partnering with cancer support charity Maggie’s Edinburgh for a month‑long fundraising campaign that blends fashion, food and community spirit in the city. At the centre of the partnership is Maggie’s Boutique, a four‑day pre‑loved designer pop‑up running 14–17 May at the former Jo Malone store on George Street. More than 1,200 donated luxury items — curated with the help of Maggie’s Ambassadors Lisa Stephenson and Sarah Murray — will be available, offering Edinburgh’s fashion lovers a rare chance to shop high‑end resale while supporting local cancer services. It’s a moment that taps directly into the city’s growing appetite for designer resale and charity‑led shopping experiences. Visitors to the pop‑up will also receive a voucher for a complimentary Maggie’s Cocktail at Contini George Street with the purchase of any main course. The restaurant has created two bespoke serves — the Brindisi per Maggie and the alcohol‑free Dolce Maggie — with £1 from every cocktail sold donated to the charity. Throughout May, Contini is also offering two limited‑edition dishes, including the vibrant Maggie’s Giardino, inspired by the charity’s signature colours. For Carina Contini, co‑owner of Contini Restaurants, the collaboration reflects a wider shift in how local businesses are supporting charities in more experiential, community‑rooted ways. She highlights hospitality’s unique role as a space where people gather, connect and reflect — making it a natural partner for community fundraising. Maggie’s Edinburgh Fundraising Manager Samantha Lea echoes this, noting that the charity relies almost entirely on voluntary donations to support people facing cancer across the Lothians. With Maggie’s marking 30 years since opening its first centre in Edinburgh, the partnership arrives at a meaningful moment for the organisation. By combining the footfall of George Street with the draw of designer fashion and Contini’s loyal customer base, both partners hope to raise significant awareness and funds for cancer support services across the region. Event Details & Opening Times Maggie’s Boutique Pop‑Up (93 George Street): Thursday, May 14th: Noon – 9:00 PM Friday, May 15th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday, May 16th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday, May 17th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Contini George Street (103 George Street): Maggie’s Fundraising Menu: Available daily throughout May 2026. Cocktail Voucher Redemption: Valid for pop‑up visitors during event dates. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Eventbrite booking page. Related - March 14 - Celestia Indian restaurant dinner for Teenage Cancer Trust

In a world where everybody seems to be stripping back to white marble benchtops, grey sweatpants, and cold facades, Pizza Geeks brings back a little bit of the whimsical we all need. As I always say, in geeks we trust. I may be somewhat biased, being a massive geek myself, but the moment I stepped into the Pizza Geeks instalment on Easter Road in Edinburgh, I was instantly at ease. Awash with black paint and brick layering, with pops of lights in the neon signs, it would be what some might call ‘moody’ or ‘retro’, but what I call perfection. We are greeted by a lovely young lady who supplies us with a tantalising menu. While we’re here to sample Pizza Geek’s latest range, I am simultaneously tempted by the classics. My friend Matilda and I decide to go for a mix – a couple of the new and shiny pizzas (the Prince of Persia and the BA Burrata) and one from their go-to range: the Bowzer. With a side of House Pickles and Fries on the order, we didn’t have to wait long until the delicious range appeared on our table. And yet – we are lured to the arcade games and I discover that competitiveness is the best way to build up an appetite. Our smorgasbord arrives and, as someone once wisely put, carbs shared have zero calories. Not that we feel any guilt as we tuck into cheesy, meaty, caper-y goodness. I mention capers because that’s one of the main ingredients on the BA Burrata and, while neither Matilda or I have ever been tempted to try capers, we are pleasantly surprised by the slight crunch and sharp tang that highlights the pizza… not to mention the jiggly and delectable burrata. As we eat, I am distracted and entertained by the level of nerd around me. Mario Party Mystery Boxes for lampshades, Back to the Future neon signs add a touch of nostalgia, strange little figurines and multi-coloured twinkly lights at every turn. It’s the restaurant equivalent to a loud personality, and I am so here for it. Matilda is swooning over the BA Burrata, while my inner carnivore cannot overlook the meaty extravagance of The Bowzer. It’s times like these where I wish I had a much larger stomach than I do – I could have quite happily sat there all night sampling each pizza (and side) in turn. I guess all it means is that I’ll have to come back, or – as the neon sign cleverly puts – Back to the Geeks! Related - check our out pizza reviews Pizza Geeks - 126 Easter Rd, Edinburgh EH7 5RJ -0131 202 9306 Open Sun to Thurs noon - 9pm Fri and Sat noon - 10pm