Cafe St Honore, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, is a culinary gem that offers a truly unique and delicious dining experience. This award-winning restaurant, named after the French patron saint of bakers, St. Honoré, is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and warm ambiance. Since its inception, Cafe St Honore has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike, attracting foodies and those seeking a memorable meal in an elegant setting.
History and Inspiration
Cafe St Honore was founded by chef and restaurateur, Neil Forbes, who drew inspiration from his culinary travels throughout France and his passion for using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s concept is rooted in traditional French cuisine, with a modern twist and a focus on showcasing the best of Scotland’s produce. The name, Cafe St Honore, is a nod to the rich culinary heritage of France, while the menu and atmosphere are distinctly Scottish, reflecting the country’s vibrant food culture.
Culinary Philosophy
At the heart of Cafe St Honore’s culinary philosophy is a commitment to using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, often sourced from small, independent suppliers. The menu, which changes seasonally, is designed to showcase the best of Scotland’s produce, from the finest meats and seafood to the freshest fruits and vegetables. The kitchen team, led by chef Neil Forbes, is dedicated to creating dishes that are not only delicious but also visually stunning, with a focus on presentation and plating.
The restaurant's culinary approach is centered around the concept of terroir, which emphasizes the importance of understanding and showcasing the unique characteristics of a region's produce. This approach is reflected in the menu, which features dishes such as roasted Scottish scallops, grilled Borders lamb, and wild garlic and potato soup, all made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and suppliers.
| Dish | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Scottish Scallops | Scallops, cauliflower, truffle oil | £25 |
| Grilled Borders Lamb | Lamb, roasted vegetables, mint sauce | £30 |
| Wild Garlic and Potato Soup | Wild garlic, potatoes, cream | £12 |
Awards and Accolades
Cafe St Honore has received numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional cuisine and service. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star, as well as an AA Rosette, and has been named one of the top restaurants in Scotland by The Scotsman and The Herald. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and reducing food waste has also been recognized, with Cafe St Honore being awarded the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s highest accolade, the Three-Star Sustainability Champion award.
Menu and Wine List
The menu at Cafe St Honore is designed to showcase the best of Scotland’s produce, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The menu is divided into several sections, including a tasting menu, which offers a selection of small plates and dishes, and a à la carte menu, which features a range of larger dishes and main courses. The restaurant also offers a vegetarian and vegan menu, which features a range of creative and delicious plant-based dishes.
The wine list at Cafe St Honore is extensive and features a range of wines from around the world, including several Scottish wines. The list is curated by the restaurant's sommelier, who works closely with the kitchen team to ensure that each wine is paired perfectly with the menu. The restaurant also offers a range of craft beers and cocktails, made with locally sourced spirits and ingredients.
- Tasting menu: £60 per person
- À la carte menu: £40-£60 per person
- Vegetarian and vegan menu: £30-£50 per person
What is the dress code at Cafe St Honore?
+The dress code at Cafe St Honore is smart casual, with a focus on comfortable and elegant attire. Jackets and ties are not required, but guests are encouraged to dress up for the occasion.
Does Cafe St Honore offer vegetarian and vegan options?
+Yes, Cafe St Honore offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including a separate vegetarian and vegan menu. The kitchen team is happy to accommodate dietary requests and can modify dishes to suit individual needs.
Can I make a reservation at Cafe St Honore?
+Yes, reservations can be made online or by phone. The restaurant recommends booking in advance, especially on weekends and during peak season, to ensure availability.
