I am and always have been a lover of Scotland and local business and over the last couple of years, I believe the country has excelled in the hospitality sector with the opening of many unique new bars, bistro pubs and restaurants which all tend to carry their own versions of bistro food presented in contemporary and quirky ways. I am a huge foodie and will sample any kind of food or drink that is placed in front of me, no matter how bizarre it may look or sound so when Portobello (Edinburgh) suddenly became an overwhelming scene of delicious eateries, I have grown to love my seaside town even more.
From authentic Spanish tapas, award winning Indian cuisine, grubby unfinished greasy spoons that surprise you with their Masterchef style presentation and taste, bistro style pubs that supply only the finest locally sourced Scottish produce and a wide drinks selection, all the way to a kitsch beach hut style cafe based on the famous seaside promenade, Portobello is currently booming and really does have something to offer everyone, of all ages and tastes.
I believe local businesses are fundamental to the economy, the hospitality industry and most importantly their customers. No disrespect to some of the huge organisations which are established throughout the Western world, but undeniably there is a generic sense of limitations and repetitions when choosing from their menus which is why I love trying local businesses which offer a constantly changing menu that can be altered to the customers needs (because it is not pre-made). I remember visiting a chain restaurant last year and ordering the risotto but preferably with no mushrooms, however, the waiter naively let it slip that because the risottos arrive pre-made and frozen, this was not possible (an incident only encouraging me to eat locally more often). It is important to give encouragement to local businesses that are still finding their feet and looking for some deserved reassurance that that their business risk will pay off.
The first in my blog posts about my love for local businesses is The Skylark on Portobello High Street which opened in the summer of 2012 and was one of the first of many to bring a contemporary uplift to the town. They serve great quality local beer and ale from Stewart Brewing and source 100% Arabica coffee which is roasted in Glasgow. Their belief is to go as "local as possible", serving free range eggs, corn fed chicken, Scottish beef and bread and pastries which are baked in a French bakery in Edinburgh.
I have visited The Skylark several times during the 2 years it has been open and each time I re-visit, it gets better with an ever increasing and interchanging menu that has something to suit everyone's tastes. The bistro is moderately priced which I believe effectively mirrors the fresh produce, friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere. On this occasion I ordered 100% freshly squeezed orange juice and a home made warm toasted almond croissant. My Dad ordered a sausage and butter bean cassoulet (a type of stew) from the specials menu which was hearty and full of flavour, perfect for the cooler weather of late. Whether you are out for brunch, lunch, dinner or some late night drinks, The Skylark offers it all. Open until from 10-12 during the weekend, it is worthwhile place to visit with its welcoming, friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
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