With a generous slice of history and a great menu, the Lantern Room has much to offer the pre-theatre diner. A bustling bar on the ground floor, should you prefer a meal that’s more liquid, and a great restaurant below.
The building was once home to engineer Robert Stevenson (1772 – 1850). Famous for incredible lighthouses, and his grandson – beloved author Robert Louis Stevenson – it’s this man’s bust you’ll be passing on the way to dinner.
Speaking of which, our meal kicked off with a few selections from the small plates menu (which averages four quid). Actually no, it kicked off with the first of several mojitos, but that’s not important right now.
Any-hoo, very much spoiled for choice, we finally opted for the Spicy chicken wings with lemon aioli, and the BBQ pulled pork spring rolls. Both quite fabulous, they were happily devoured in record time.
Next, came a second mojito followed by the main event. Here there’s a satisfying mix of surf and turf to choose from; three different burgers – buffalo / beef / vegie; and the rather tempting Sausage of the day.
Our picks: The Sage gnocchi with butternut squash, spiced aubergine caviar, sundried tomato & olive tapenade. A stunning mix of flavours, it looked like a work of art and tasted even better.
Then there’s the Braised beef brisket. Another excellent dish, but the real star was mac & cheese by its side. This creamy and calorie-laden goodness we could both happily eat by the truckload.
Though being consummate fatty-booms, our meal was far from over. Somehow there was still just enough room for a slice of Glazed lemon tart with meringue and raspberry coulis.
Bursting with intense flavour, this classic dessert will have you mouthing the word “wow” with every bite. We’ll even go out on a limb, and say it’s one of the best in town. #controversial
Perfect for a pre-theatre dinner or just general greed: the warm service and excellent food will leave you extremely happy you came.
In a pre-theatre nutshell:
Venues Nearby: Edinburgh Playhouse (30 seconds walk)
Perfect for: Dinner / drinks
Price: Fixed price menu – two courses £18, dessert add £4
Contact:
The Lantern Room
1-3 Baxter’s Place
Edinburgh EH1 3AF
0131 526 3778
The Social Bitches dined as guests of the Lantern Room.