A well hidden discovery in the city’s Chamber Street, the Tower Restaurant has probably the most unassuming, yet impressive frontage of any current Edinburgh restaurant.
Disguised atop the impressive walls of the newly refurbished National Museum of Scotland, this is one remarkable find, where reputation must and obviously does, precede the discovery.
Riding the glass lift to a secluded and private 5th floor, the Tower Restaurant is to be hunted out, upon which a rather modest entrance guides diners into a find of Secret Garden magnitude and a magical rooftop landscape of Scotland’s impressive capital city.
As accustomed as I am to the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, none could surpass the splendid and unusual view of Scotland’s greatest landmark, as that from The Tower Restaurant, where the only distraction I wished to concede to, was of the pleasantly welcoming, proficient and attentive staff variety.
Presenting a wealth of detailed knowledge with regards the extensive and I would imagine, changing, menu, the waiting staff spoke with great aplomb and genuine enthusiasm of today’s dishes; prepared for questions and confidently happy to offer suggestions.
Delighted not only to note that Champagne on the menu is sold by the glass but that our wine waiter was equally as erudite in the contents of the impressive list and was able to match, what turned out to be a glorious red, not only with dish selections but personal taste.
Making a choice from a welcomingly unusual selection of dishes, featuring the very best available, seasonal ingredients and painstakingly sourced shellfish and game, proved difficult if not nigh on impossible, considering also the added distraction of the ever present Castle!
Chef, Gavin Elden’s kitchen, thankfully is positioned at the back of the restaurant with no such distraction, allowing him to present powerfully impressive creations and wonderful culinary delights; our Game Terrine starter and Partridge main were particular highlights.
The entire lunch experience was a paragon of perfection, acted out as a wonderfully professional show; theatrical backdrop, faultless, impeccable performances, impressive main features, complete enjoyment and worthy of a round of applause if not, standing ovation.
Bravo!
http://www.tower-restaurant.com
Notes: Conference/Incentive organisers; The Tower Restaurant also caters events within the Museum and the circular private meeting/function tower adjacent to the Restaurant, with full use of the outdoor roof terrace.
