Dishoom Edinburgh Saint Andrew Square Edinburgh

Dishoom Edinburgh: Where the Spirit of Bombay Meets Saint Andrew Square

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, just a stone's throw from the iconic Saint Andrew Square, lies a little piece of Bombay. Dishoom, the beloved Indian restaurant, has brought its unique charm and flavours to the Scottish capital, and boy, are we glad it did!

For those unfamiliar, Dishoom is no ordinary Indian eatery. It's a labour of love, a tribute to the Irani cafés of Bombay, those charming, bustling spots where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy chai, crispy akuri, and lively banter. The Edinburgh outpost, opened in 2019, is a faithful replica of its siblings in London, with a few delightful local touches.

First Impressions

Step inside and you're greeted by a vibrant, bustling space, a stark yet wonderful contrast to the city's more traditional eateries. The walls are adorned with vintage posters and quirky art, while the open kitchen hums with activity. It's a sensory feast even before you've taken your seat.

The soundtrack is a mix of old Hindi film songs and modern beats, creating an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and lively. It's like stepping into a Bombay film set, all warmth and colour and life.

Feasting on Bombay

Now, let's talk food. Dishoom's menu is a delightful journey through Bombay's culinary landscape. From the classic bacon naan roll (a breakfast game-changer, if you ask us) to the rich, aromatic biryanis, every dish tells a story.

We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the house special, the dish that put Dishoom on the map: the house keema. Tender, spiced lamb mince, cooked with tomatoes and served with roomali roti, it's a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious. Pair it with a cold pint of Kingfisher, and you're in heaven.

And for those with a sweet tooth, the chai-infused chocolate mousse is a must-try. It's like drinking a cup of chai and eating a rich, decadent dessert all at once. Bliss!

Little Known Facts

Dishoom Edinburgh is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub. It hosts regular events, from art exhibitions to live music nights, all designed to bring people together and celebrate the spirit of Bombay.

Fun fact: The restaurant's name is a nod to the Hindi word for 'smoke', a reference to the steam and smoke that once filled Bombay's streets. It's also a playful nod to the fact that, back in the day, the city's Irani cafés were often filled with a haze of cigarette smoke.

Reflection

In a city as steeped in history as Edinburgh, it's easy to forget that there's room for new stories, new flavours, new experiences. Dishoom is a reminder of that. It's a testament to the fact that, even in the most traditional of settings, there's always space for something different, something vibrant, something... well, something Dishoom.

So, the next time you find yourself in Saint Andrew Square, do yourself a favour. Step inside Dishoom, let the spirit of Bombay wash over you, and remember: life's too short to skip breakfast (or lunch, or dinner).