Edinburgh’s culinary scene has always been excellent, but this year, two more restaurants received the ultimate international recognition by receiving a Michelin Star on March 27. Michelin Guide has released its list for 2023 last night, telling the world which restaurants are the most noteworthy. Five Edinburgh restaurants were named, with two brand new names in the mix: The Heron in Leith and Timberyard.
The other three Michelin Stars went to The Kitchin led by Chef Tom Kitchin, Condita with Chef Conor Toomey at its forefront and Martin Wishart named after the Chef himself. Leith seems to be the hotspot for Michelin Star places in Edinburgh, with three out of the five restaurants based in the neighbourhood.
The Heron has opened in Summer 2021 and is owned by Chefs Tomás Gormley and Sam Yorke. Now, two chefs proved to be better than one, as the restaurant received a Michelin star for the very first time in 2023. According to the Michelin Guide, “you can expect confidently prepared, balanced and delicious dishes that display plenty of respect for their ingredients” at The Heron, putting special focus on their sauces and cooking techniques.
As for Timberyard, it’s been around since 2012 and has well deserved to finally receive a Michelin Star. The restaurant sits in an old 19th century warehouse, where it used to be a costume and props store. Owned by the Radford family, the restaurant “centres around the local, the seasonal, and letting ingredients speak for themselves.”, according to the Michelin Guide. Chef Ben Radford is the head chef, prividing guests with impeccable meals, while the entire family is involved in the day-to-day operations. What is more, the restaurant’s music choices were also praised within the guide.
So, with five extraordinary Michelin Star restaurants at our display in Edinburgh now, we are simply spoiled for choice for special occasions.