It’s not that easy to find a decent French restaurant accompanied by decent cocktails in Edinburgh, where delectable cuisine meets impeccable service. Brasserie Prince boasts all that and so much more, cementing its position in Edinburgh’s food and drink scene.
Brasserie Prince and Bar Prince are located within The Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street, offering effortless opulence and affordable prices. As part of the world-famous five-star establishment, which has housed stars such as Taylor Swift, Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, Paul and Linda McCartney, guests can indulge in a five-star experience without breaking the bank too much.
The Balmoral Hotel is an iconic Edinburgh landmark on its own, and first opened its doors in 1902 as The North British Station hotel, first owned by the North British Railway Company. The hotel only got its new name, The Balmoral, in 1991, with Sir Rocco Forte buying the hotel in 1997.
Now, The Balmoral hotel is one of the focal points of Princes Street, boasting 187 rooms including 20 suites, a spa, three restaurants and two bars.
Brasserie Prince
Run by Executive Chef Paul Hart, Brasserie Prince is a foodie destination on its own, offering guests classic French cooking made with locally sourced produce. Expect a seasonal menu with all the comforting dishes that will delight the palate, all balanced with a decent wine list.
Secret Edinburgh got the chance to try Brasserie Prince out for ourselves, and the spot is officially one of the best French eateries in town.
To start, we went for the (super cheesy) French Onion Soup and the Escargots a la Bourguignonne, wrapping us in a tight hug of comfort and familiar flavours.
The main event was completed by the Fillet au Poivre and the Fillet Steak in a classic brasserie fashion, accompanied by Red Wine Jus and Café de Paris sauces and a generous side of frites, as well as some Heritage Carrots. The freshness of the Scottish produce is evident, and the quality of the meat elevates the experience to new heights.
What is more, the dessert options are just as gratifying – the Mousse au Chocolate with Pistachio Ice Cream stole the show, creating a refreshing, balanced dance of textures and flavours.
The wine and sparkling wine list at Brasserie Prince is also noteworthy, and it is clear it has been curated with care and knowledge. White wine enthusiasts MUST try the Il Forte Gavi from Piedmont, Italy, offering fresh, yet flavourful hints of acacia flowers, pear, passion fruit and pineapple.
Bar Prince
Plus, those who prefer to stay for a drink can opt to have one or a few at Bar Prince, enjoying a cosy decor with bookshelves and a fireplace, which is located at the entrance to the restaurant and is in the same space.
Bar Prince has recently launched a new menu, which is perfect for a weekend brunch, as well as evening cocktails. While the bar food is considered small plates, we have found the portions to be generous, especially the burger.
The Balmoral Burger is worthy of a mention on its own, and comes with bacon, Mull cheddar, beer rarebit and a massive bowl of fries. It is easily one of the best burgers in Edinburgh and melts in one’s mouth, providing guests with that much-needed comfort feel.
Guests should also try the Balmoral Smoked Salmon with Crème Fraîche, Capers and spiced prawn crackers, as well as the Baked Camembert with Rosemary, Garlic and Pain de Campagne and the Freshly Shucked Oysters with Champagne Gel & Caviar.
The cocktails are also a work of art on their own, and those impartial to Champagne cocktails must try the About Last Night, with Bombay Bramble Gin, Brockmans Gin, Maraschino, Cherry, Raspberry and
Champagne. La Dolce Vita was also a standout, with Bombay Sapphire Gin, Lillet Blanc, Isolabella Limoncello, Basil, Elderflower and Lavender Bitters.
Overall, Brasserie Prince and Bar Prince offer a relaxed atmosphere with warm service, with affordable prices in line with most restaurants in Edinburgh we all go to. So, you don’t have to stay at five-star hotels regularly to be able to visit!