On the 12th floor of the W Hotel known locally as the 'Walnut Whip,' is the W lounge. This curvaceously-shaped bar and outside deck boast unrivalled 360-degree panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline.
The deck is on the other side of the lounge's floor-to-ceiling windows. Unfortunately, on the night we visit, gusts remind us why Edinburgh, like Chicago, is nicknamed 'the windy city.'
No worries, we are seated inside and order cocktails. I choose a long, cool smoky Paloma made with mezcal, and Simone opts for a gin-based cocktail called Nature. They are perfect for a humid summer night.
We decide to eat, and Simone chooses the halibut with caramelised artichoke puree, morel mushrooms, and a chicken and truffle sauce. I eagerly order the Scottish lobster roll in a toasted brioche bun with hand-cut chips.
I had eaten at Sushisamba a few weeks earlier, (also reviewed by a colleague on opening) and the prawn tempura, plantain chips, and fish misto were standout dishes cooked impeccably. It's the same kitchen, and tonight's dishes are just as good.
The lobster comes in a large sub-shaped soft brioche, teasing out the sweet seafood. Crisp green lettuce lines the roll, and abundant lobster in a seafood sauce spills like a muffin top. The Jenga-like chips are irresistible—golden, fluffy, and crunchy with a glint of sea salt. Simone says her halibut is cooked perfectly, but the sauce could use more punch.
Desserts are works of art worthy of a Parisian patisserie. Simone has a chocolate and smoked caramel tart with popcorn praline, and I have strawberry pavlova. The manager, Charlie, tells me a turntable is deployed for the perfect piping of the cream (see picture!). I hope it's not the one used to play vinyl next door in the Brazilian-themed Joao's Place. The meringue is toothsome, and the strawberry jus is summer distilled.
Simone says of the tart:
"The choccy tart was full of deliciousness! Silky caramel combined with smooth milk chocolate all in cased in a super crisp pastry combined with a surprise pop of popcorn!"
DJs and firepits are planned throughout August to enhance the atmosphere in the W Deck so you can watch the fireworks while taking in Calton Hill, The Castle, Arthur's Seat, and more. Better make a reservation!
The W Lounge, Joao's Place, and Sushisamba are some of Edinburgh's flashiest spots delivering a multitude of cuisines, dining and drinking opportunities all day every day.
12th Floor, W Hotel, 1 St James Square, EH1 3AX
Open everyday 9am - 12am.
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