It took 2500 bookings before it even opened, and as a result the owners felt compelled to close their new restaurant to walk-ins for the first few days. What, you might wonder, was the attraction? An expertly-curated social media campaign? That obviously helped, but the location of Kochchi, Glasgow’s new Sri Lankan restaurant, must surely have played a part. It’s situated down a very cute mews lane off Byres Road in the city’s bustling West End , is close to the University

Scotland’s bakery sector came together on january 26 at Fife College, Dunfermline in a spectacular celebration of skill, creativity and jam filled ambition at the Scottish Baker of the Year 2026 Empire Biscuit Challenge . The event marked the official launch of the Scottish Baker of the Year Awards, which will take place in May 2026 .  Company Bakery, McGhees, Harry Gow, John Gillespie & Sons, Lesley Cameron, Peter Sawkins Hosted by Great British Bake Off winner Peter Sawkin

For those of us who work full time and not in the centre of town, a weekday lunch out is a rare treat, and this is often where the best deals can be found. Though a well-known name to me, my only previous experience of Harajuku Kitchen was the excellent gyoza stall at Stockbridge Market, and I learn that this is where the company started out originally, before opening their award-winning restaurant in Bruntsfield in 2013. Authenticity is very important in the growing world

Dishoom is a UK‑wide restaurant group celebrating the Irani cafés of twentieth‑century Bombay — the bustling institutions founded by Zoroastrian (Iranian) immigrants. Their Edinburgh outpost also nods to the visionary town planner Patrick Geddes , appointed Bombay’s first Professor of Sociology and Civics in 1919. Geddes frequented the city’s cafés, suppor ted the independence movement, and advised on planning during his years living there. Dishoom folds this local connect

Left to Right: Claragh, Nicola, Jacob and Jaynie Kean A family‑run Lowland distillery steps into a new chapter as Jackton prepares to reveal the single malt that has quietly shaped its identity from day one. Six years after filling their very first cask, the team at Jackton Distillery are finally ready to lift the lid on their inaugural RAER Single Malt . And in true Jackton style, they’re doing it with a Burns Night gathering on the former family farm. Between 23–25 January

Tea Scotland has won the 2025 Pioneer Award  at the internationally recognised Leafies Tea Awards marking a major moment for Scotland’s fast‑growing tea sector. The network, which supports the commercial cultivation of Camellia sinensis   across the country, was praised for producing rare, small‑batch, traceable teas shaped by distinctive Scottish microclimates that echo high‑altitude terroirs. The Awards ceremony commended Scottish Tea Companies The Leafies —organised by t

Wahaca brings big flavour and easygoing charm to plant‑based dining, with vibrant small plates, standout tacos, and a zero‑proof drinks list that makes Dry January feel like a celebration rather than a compromise. Sometimes you just have to treat yourself. I’m not talking about a Michelin starred, white tablecloth kind of treat, more the kind that warms your stomach and ignites a spark in you at the same time. That’s Wahaca. Visiting our local restaurant in Edinburgh, with

One Week On… Just when you think the days are stretching and the chill is easing, Scotland reminds you—firmly—that winter isn’t done with us yet. Luckily, the Bite team has been out gathering plenty of ways to stay cosy in Scotland’s brilliant restaurants, cafés and bars. 🍇 On the Grapevine Scottish wins at The Leafies    A strong showing for Scotland at The Leafies —affectionately known as “the Oscars of the tea world”. Bacaro 42     A new Venetian wine bar has opened at 4

Cold outside? Get your skates on to Hawksmoor Edinburgh to catch their January meal deal! They’re offering their steak‑and‑side deal from as little as £16, and Bite is in there quick to sample Hawksmoor’s specials. The basic deal includes a 35‑day dry‑aged Scottish rump steak with a choice from four sides. Add on a second course and the total of £19.50 still keeps it keen. So much so that my dining companion feels a celebratory Cava is a suitable aperitif, and it’s a delici