Edinburgh’s unique skyline can be marvelled at from many angles, with castle views from one side and Scott Monument from the other. No matter which rooftop bar you end up going for, a stunning backdrop is guaranteed: yet, there is a champagne rooftop lounge, Nor’ Loft, which not only specialises in our favourite bubbly, but also noteworthy afternoon tea, which comes on a mini picnic table.
Our Picnic at Nor’ Loft is back for another year, boasting all the picnic specials we all love and miss. The all-time favourites include picnic pies, scotch eggs, ham and cheese with a twist, served on a miniature picnic table (and it comes with a mini tablecloth and everything).
Nor’ Loft is located on the top floor of the Market Street Hotel, boasting “tall glasses and taller views”. The trendy, contemporary space offers Scandinavian influence, with sleek furniture and light wood features, as well as a statement wall filled with tiny fireplaces. While the lounge specialises in champagne (yes, please), guests can still enjoy a wee dram of whisky or a glass of wine with views over Scot Monument, Calton Hill and Princes Street.
Priced at £70 for two people (£35 per person), Our Picnic comes with a selection of savoury treats including hand-raised game pie, falafel scotch egg and Smoked Gubbeen from I.J. Mellis and cakes such as the matcha sponge with strawberry buttercream and yuzu (this was our favourite) and caramelised white chocolate, coffee and pecan cake.
What is more, the rooftop spot also has an outdoor terrace for those warmer days, however, it does face North, meaning no direct sunlight. And those who don’t feel like a full-blown afternoon tea can opt for a range of small plates at Nor’ Loft, such as Oysters or the Truffled Halloumi Roll.
General Manager Jill Darling said: “Last summer, Our Picnic was incredibly popular, and so we are thrilled to relaunch it earlier for both spring and summer this year. At Nor’ Loft, locally sourced, seasonal produce is at the core of what our kitchen has to offer, alongside adding that Nor’ Loft twist that people have come to expect and love such as trading the traditional pork scotch egg for a falafel version.”