The Lot

This establishment has not been visited by The List's review team.

• High point: Relaxed surroundings with eye-catching art adorning the walls
• Low point: Dishes perhaps err on the side of simplicity

The LIST Card F23

The Lot

The following information has been provided by the restaurant.

The Lot is a bright and friendly bistro in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Upstairs at The Lot is a year round arts and performance venue, and the Lot’s commitment to supporting new artists filters down to the bistro, with regular dinners accompanied by live music, and exhibitions by local artists adorning the walls. This attention to detail is also evident in the food, with a strong emphasis on ethical trading (all tea and coffee is Fair Trade certified) and a satisfying mix of choices that cater for everything from tea and cake to a romantic candlelit dinner.

Fresh and filling soups, yummy home-baking and desserts, the Seafood Chowder and the Chicken Breast with Haggis Mash remain favourites with regulars. New chef Sam Kemmer has also introduced a wider range of flavours, with lighter dishes such as The Lot’s Blue Cheese and Walnut Tart; The Smoked Haddock Fishcake and the Warm Salad of Chorizo, Roast Potatoes and Olives. The A La Carte menu, which changes every two months, carries dishes such as the Wild Mushroom and Tarragon Risotto, and the Whole Baked Sea Bream, with Olive Crushed Potato and Capers. All food is cooked freshly to order and is locally sourced wherever possible.

The Lot is a regular ceilidh and jazz venue, and there’s a specially priced Table d’Hote timed to give dancers and music fans the opportunity to enjoy a nicely priced meal in the bistro before heading on upstairs (available Mon-Sat 12pm-2.30pm and 5.30-8pm. Two courses £8.50, Three courses £10.95).

The Lot also caters for private dinners, parties and weddings, both in the bistro and the venue. For more information see the website.

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