Nestled in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle has long been enchanting diners with its sumptuous cuisine and unique atmosphere. Known for its rich history and opulent décor, The Witchery Edinburgh is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. This post delves into the allure of The Witchery, exploring its menu, the charming Secret Garden, and other offerings such as its afternoon tea and festive celebrations.
Steeped in history and brimming with character, The Witchery by the Castle is not just a culinary institution in Edinburgh; it’s a landmark rich in stories and quirks. Nestled in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, this celebrated dining spot is as famous for its intriguing past as it is for its luxurious dining experience. Let’s delve into the historical details and quirks that make The Witchery a truly unique destination.
- 1. The Witchery’s Historical Roots: The Witchery, situated in a collection of historic buildings at the top of the Royal Mile, dates back to the 16th century. The area, known as Boswell’s Court, named after the writer James Boswell, has seen centuries of history unfold. The building itself is an excellent example of Edinburgh’s historic architecture, with its oak panelling and stone walls whispering tales of the past.
- 2. Named for its Witch Trials Association: The Witchery Edinburgh gets its evocative name from the infamous witch trials that took place in Edinburgh in the 16th and 17th centuries. The area around the Royal Mile, where the restaurant is located, was a significant site for these trials, and it’s said that many of the accused witches were burned at the stake near where The Witchery now stands. This dark yet fascinating aspect of history contributes to the restaurant’s alluring ambiance.
- 3. The Restaurant’s Transformation: Founded in 1979 by James Thomson, The Witchery was transformed from a near-derelict building into the sumptuous restaurant it is today. Thomson’s vision was to create a dining experience that celebrated Scotland’s rich history and produce. The restaurant’s décor, with its antiques and historical artefacts, pays homage to its past while offering modern luxury.
- 4. Ghostly Legends: Given its historical location, it’s no surprise that The Witchery is shrouded in ghostly legends. Staff and guests have often spoken of eerie occurrences and unexplained happenings, adding a touch of the supernatural to the dining experience.
- 5. Celebrity Patrons: Over the years, The Witchery has attracted a host of celebrity patrons, drawn by its unique combination of history, fine dining, and a touch of theatre. From actors and musicians to politicians, the restaurant’s guest book reads like a who’s who of the global elite.
- 6. The Secret Garden: An Enchanting Hideaway: A relatively more recent addition is The Secret Garden. Tucked away, this hidden dining space was opened in 1999 and offers an alternative to the original Witchery’s baroque richness. With its glass roof and walls, it’s a charming blend of indoor and outdoor dining, surrounded by historic buildings.
- 7. The Witchery’s Suites: Above the restaurant lie The Witchery Edinburgh’s nine luxurious suites. Each room is individually decorated, steeped in opulence and historical charm, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the old-world atmosphere of Edinburgh.
1. The Menu: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The Witchery’s menu is a testament to Scottish culinary excellence, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and a fusion of traditional and contemporary recipes. Diners can indulge in a variety of dishes, from succulent seafood to prime cuts of meat, all prepared with a level of craftsmanship that has become synonymous with The Witchery Edinburgh.
Nestled at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle offers a dining experience that marries Scotland’s rich culinary heritage with an atmosphere of historic grandeur. The menu is a testament to the nation’s finest produce, meticulously crafted to delight the most discerning palates.
Starters
- Cumbrae Scottish Rock Oysters
Harvested from the pristine waters of the West Coast, these oysters are served with a classic mignonette sauce, lemon, and a hint of Tabasco, allowing the natural brininess to shine. - Tarbert Crab Benedict
A luxurious twist on a classic, featuring succulent Tarbert crab atop grilled gem lettuce, crowned with a poached St Ewe egg and draped in a rich brown crab hollandaise. - Warm Salad of Charred Courgette
A harmonious blend of charred courgette, broad beans, toasted walnuts, and a velvety Spenwood cheese velouté, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavours.
Mains
- Roasted North Sea Halibut
A fillet of halibut, perfectly roasted and accompanied by smoked eel, sea herbs, black garlic aioli, and a delicate celery cream, showcasing the bounty of Scotland’s coastal waters. - 30-Day Dry-Aged Fillet of Scotch Beef
This 200g fillet, aged to perfection, is served with new season chanterelles, pomme Anna, and enriched with truffle butter, exemplifying the depth of Scottish beef. - Confit of Celeriac
A vegetarian masterpiece featuring confit celeriac with a hazelnut beurre noisette crumb, burnt onion purée, red pepper and harissa, all brought together with a fragrant vadouvan sauce.
Desserts
- Cox Pippin Tart Tatin
A classic dessert for two to share, this tart features caramelised Cox Pippin apples, served with English custard and vanilla ice cream, offering a sweet conclusion to the meal. - Pistachio Frangipane
A delicate pistachio frangipane accompanied by caramelised fig, milk chocolate namelaka, pistachio mousseline, and a refreshing yoghurt ice cream. - The Witchery Cheese Selection
A curated selection of cheeses served with Scottish homemade oatcakes, walnut bread, and prune chutney, perfect for those who prefer a savoury end to their dining experience.
Each dish at The Witchery is a celebration of Scotland’s natural larder, prepared with precision and presented with elegance, ensuring a dining experience that lingers in memory long after the meal concludes.
Drinks and potions at The Witchery Edinburgh
At The Witchery by the Castle, the beverage selection is as meticulously curated as its renowned cuisine, offering an array of libations that complement the dining experience with sophistication and flair.
Cocktails
The cocktail menu at The Witchery is a testament to the art of mixology, featuring both classic concoctions and innovative creations that pay homage to Scotland’s rich heritage. While specific cocktail offerings are not detailed in the available sources, guests can anticipate a selection that showcases premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and expert craftsmanship.
Wines
The Witchery boasts an exceptional wine list, curated with decades of expertise to include some of the world’s finest selections.
The extensive cellar features:
- Champagnes and Sparkling Wines: A selection of esteemed Champagnes and sparkling wines, perfect for toasting special occasions or commencing an evening of indulgence.
- Old World Reds and Whites: An array of distinguished wines from renowned regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and the Rhône Valley, offering depth and complexity to suit various palates.
- New World Varietals: A curated selection of wines from esteemed vineyards across North and South America, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, showcasing the diversity of global winemaking.
- Dessert Wines and Ports: A range of sweet wines and fortified selections to provide a harmonious conclusion to the dining experience.
Spirits
The Witchery’s bar is well-stocked with a discerning selection of spirits, including:
- Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: An impressive collection representing various regions of Scotland, each offering unique characteristics and flavours.
- Artisanal Gins: A variety of gins, including local Scottish distillations, perfect for a classic gin and tonic or a bespoke cocktail.
- Premium Vodkas, Rums, and Cognacs: A selection of high-quality spirits to suit a range of preferences.
While specific details of the cocktail and spirits menu are not provided in the available sources, guests at The Witchery can expect a beverage programme that reflects the establishment’s commitment to quality and elegance, ensuring a memorable accompaniment to their dining experience.
2. The Restaurant: An Ambiance of Old-World Charm
The Witchery’s dining room is a blend of Gothic elegance and Scottish baronial grandeur. With its oak panelling, historic tapestries, and opulent furnishings, dining here feels like stepping into another era, one filled with romance and mystery.
3. The Secret Garden: An Enchanted Dining Space
Hidden away is The Witchery’s Secret Garden, an idyllic dining space that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Edinburgh. With its lush greenery and serene ambiance, the Secret Garden is perfect for those seeking a more intimate dining experience.
4. Afternoon Tea: A Decadent Tradition
While The Witchery Edinburgh is famed for its dinners, its afternoon tea service is not to be missed. Offering a selection of fine teas, exquisite sandwiches, and delectable pastries, it’s the ideal way to spend a leisurely afternoon soaking in the historic atmosphere.
5. Contact and Reservations
To experience The Witchery’s magic, it’s recommended to book in advance. Reservations can be made by calling +44 131 225 5613. This is especially advisable during peak seasons and holidays.
6. Christmas at The Witchery Edinburgh
Christmas at The Witchery is a festive spectacle. The restaurant typically offers a special menu featuring seasonal delicacies and traditional favourites, all set against the backdrop of its beautifully decorated interiors.
As the festive season approaches, The Witchery by the Castle in Edinburgh unveils a Christmas menu that embodies the spirit of the holidays, offering a culinary journey through Scotland’s finest seasonal produce.
Starters
- Cumbrae Scottish Rock Oysters
Harvested from the pristine waters of the West Coast, these oysters are served with a classic mignonette sauce, lemon, and a hint of Tabasco, allowing the natural brininess to shine. - Tarbert Crab Benedict
A luxurious twist on a classic, featuring succulent Tarbert crab atop grilled gem lettuce, crowned with a poached St Ewe egg and draped in a rich brown crab hollandaise. - Warm Salad of Charred Courgette
A harmonious blend of charred courgette, broad beans, toasted walnuts, and a velvety Spenwood cheese velouté, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavours.
Mains
- Roasted North Sea Halibut
A fillet of halibut, perfectly roasted and accompanied by smoked eel, sea herbs, black garlic aioli, and a delicate celery cream, showcasing the bounty of Scotland’s coastal waters. - 30-Day Dry-Aged Fillet of Scotch Beef
This 200g fillet, aged to perfection, is served with new season chanterelles, pomme Anna, and enriched with truffle butter, exemplifying the depth of Scottish beef. - Confit of Celeriac
A vegetarian masterpiece featuring confit celeriac with a hazelnut beurre noisette crumb, burnt onion purée, red pepper and harissa, all brought together with a fragrant vadouvan sauce.
Desserts
- Cox Pippin Tart Tatin
A classic dessert for two to share, this tart features caramelised Cox Pippin apples, served with English custard and vanilla ice cream, offering a sweet conclusion to the meal. - Pistachio Frangipane
A delicate pistachio frangipane accompanied by caramelised fig, milk chocolate namelaka, pistachio mousseline, and a refreshing yoghurt ice cream. - The Witchery Cheese Selection
A curated selection of cheeses served with Scottish homemade oatcakes, walnut bread, and prune chutney, perfect for those who prefer a savoury end to their dining experience.
Each dish at The Witchery is a celebration of Scotland’s natural larder, prepared with precision and presented with elegance, ensuring a dining experience that lingers in memory long after the meal concludes.
7. Prices: Reflecting the Quality and Ambiance
Dining at The Witchery is a premium experience, and the prices reflect the high quality of food, service, and atmosphere. While it’s on the higher end of the price spectrum, the experience offers value for money that’s hard to find elsewhere. A Two-Course Lunch is £29.50 per person. You can see other prices over here.
8. Lunch Menu: A Midday Feast
The lunch menu at The Witchery Edinburgh offers a lighter yet equally exquisite selection of dishes. From fresh salads to gourmet sandwiches, it caters to various tastes, making it a popular choice for both casual and business lunches.
