Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Roseleaf and The Shore

Location: Leith, Edinburgh

A review from Lotus Martini’s International Correspondent, Edinburgh

After making their way around London, my international correspondent heads to Edinburgh.


It's not everyday a Scottish cab driver tips you the wink about a bar serving up wonders in teapots with china cups to match. It's even less likely in Edinburgh, generally placed below Parkes in the world league of cocktail venues.

Over lunch my Valkyries echo the driver's enthusiasm, so as Swanwhite wrings the last drops from the second bottle of wine, the consequences go the full Mussolini. The Shore itself sets the scene with its trademark Bloody Mary, the sherry top and celery notes crowning the usual suspect with perfect balance. Roseleaf has a game on its hands.

Our friendly Irish maitre d' secures we three the last remaining table, a promising hint with the sun still skimming the cobblestones. Sure enough the cheerful mixed crowd huddles round the communal teapots with a expectant Friday air, from bow ties to pleasure professionals. Even the Dolph Lundgrenalike at the next table doesn't look out of place.

We chink our way through two rounds of teapots, opening with a local take on the Moscow Mule, with pear vodka and raspberry juice. But the bar is taken to task by Adam's Love Apple, with apple vodka, fresh apples and pomegranate juice, alluring but with just the right level of late afternoon cut through.

We totter out into the soft Edinburgh light where Swanwhite and I ponder the cherry to crown our day's splendid cake. There is only one choice. A garden at dusk and champagne.

Both bars: 4 stars.

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