STEAK Edinburgh is a brilliant concept, a cool lounge style restaurant that aims to offer you the best steak in the Scottish capital but also has a range of other delicious dishes, created by head chef Jason Wright with flair and creativity. The restaurant has only recently opened and yet feels established, with a modern vibe and groovy theme. The tag line ‘where beauty meats the beast,’ although a bit tacky, suits the moody and architecturally brilliant interior which actually reminded me of the familiar Disney film.
During our visit on a Sunday lunchtime the restaurant was empty… and I can only guess that it is directly related to the bland and over-discreet entrance which fails to signal the eatery let along announce it’s greatness. A banner, poster or sign would definitely increase custom and bring in hungry punters.
The brunch menu focuses on the glory of Scottish meat with classic steaks and breakfast dishes on the menu. We indulged and ordered a three course brunch, even saying it sounds absurd! To start we tried Cinnamon French Toast with Bacon and Maple Syrup and Eggs Benedict with Spinach: New York style breakfast choices that came full of flavour and in generous portions. They were well presented and made carefully to give the best taste. I was very impressed with the French Toast and the Eggs Benedict looked delicious.
Next came the meat feast – Rib Eye Steak with fried Duck Egg and triple fried dripping chips for my brother and the Mixed Grill for two for me and my dad to share, my god it was good. Our plate included sirloin steak, pigeon breast, homemade sausage, black haggis, bone marrow, wild mushrooms and insanely good sweet roast shallot puree. From the selection the steak was definitely the winner, a high quality cut, well seasoned with herbs and grilled to perfection. Always on the hunt for ‘the best chips,’ I was delighted to experience the triple fried dripping chips at STEAK… they were perhaps the best I’ve tried yet! Golden yellow and very crunchy on the outside with a soft and deliciously flavoured centre.
For those hoping for a lighter lunch… alternatives like granola and pastries are listed as ‘the rest’ on the menu! I thought perhaps STEAK could improve on their drink choices, I was disappointed that fresh orange juice wasn’t available and perhaps some smoothies would complement the brunch menu.
Jason Wright is obviously a bit of a ‘Heston’ at heart, with scientific creativity evident in his superbly executed brunch desserts. We shared his Pancakes with Bacon Ice-cream and Maple Syrup and faux Eggs Benedict made from banana bread, coconut and mango. They didn’t realise top marks for taste but they looked absolutely exquisite and are worth a try just so you can satisfyingly burst a fake egg!
I think STEAK could appeal to everyone, but it is an absolute must-visit for meat lovers.
Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with East Coast Trains to Edinburgh. East Coast operates 46 services each weekday between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh. Customers travelling First Class can enjoy East Coast’s complimentary food and drinks offer plus unlimited Wi-Fi. Advanced return fares, booked online at www.eastcoast.co.uk: start from £33 Standard Class or £95 First Class. Times and fares can also be found via 08457 225225 or from any staffed stations.