Above Abbotsford

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The 2011/12 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2011) edition.

The Abbotsford has been a bastion of the Rose Street scene since the Jenner family commissioned the present building in 1902. The restaurant 'Above' may not have quite the authenticity of the bar at street level, but there’s enough ornate dark wood and etched and mirrored glass to maintain an agreeably period look. Tables are well spaced and spacious, and service engaged and obliging. This isn’t a place that buys into fad or fashion, and everything from the immaculate white napery and sturdy silverware to the little black and white triangular 'Reserved' notices contributes to a comfortably old-fashioned feel. There’s a whisky sauce here, a redcurrant jus there, and a couple of fish dishes in addition to the beer-battered haddock, but essentially this is a meat-driven menu aimed at those who prefer little to distract from a Borders ribeye steak or pan-fried haunch of venison. If you’ve space for afters, typical choices include a vanilla-speckled Abbotsford white chocolate cheesecake, or a decent chunk of Dunsyre Blue on the ‘Celtic’ cheese plate.

• High point: Being treated like a regular, even when you aren't
• Low point: Huge portions

1. conssecy, edinburgh – 27 September 2009, 6:15pmAbove AbbotsfordReport

Excellent meal at Above Restaurant at The Abbotsford today. First class ingredients, obviously freshly cooked. Main and dessert both thoroughly enjoyable. Staff extremely competent and friendly. Will most definitely be back.