Review: Bread Street Kitchen & Bar – a St Andrews Square restaurant

Bread Street Kitchen & Bar has been a celebrity presence in St Andrew Square for years, but it took the lure of a newly tweaked menu to finally bring me inside. Edinburgh Reviewer and art talent, Birdy, had visited before, and she was eager to join me to sample the latest offerings. For me, Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant was a discovery that proved long overdue, transforming a miserable Edinburgh afternoon into a vibrant culinary escape.

The venue itself serves as a welcome oasis from the Scottish weather. From the moment we stepped through the doors, the greeting was warm and immediate, well before anyone knew a review was in the works. For those who might be wary of the celebrity name or find high-end dining intimidating, the staff here strike the perfect balance between professional and genuinely welcoming. There is no snootiness or pretension, just a high standard of hospitality that makes you feel immediately at home.

The Grandeur of the Highland Venison Wellington

While the menu offers plenty of variety, we decided to be bold and opt for the headliner: the Highland Venison Wellington. Priced at 120 pounds for two people, it is a significant step up from the rest of the main menu, but the experience justifies the cost. It is a fantastic sharing platter that turns a standard meal into a communal event. Reaching into the middle of the table to share such a beautifully crafted dish is a rare experience that we really should consider doing more often.

We didn’t start at the finish line, however. The starters were a masterclass in texture and temperature. I opted for the haggis bonbons with whisky mayo, which were incredibly smooth and paired perfectly with the sharp tang of the sauce. Birdy’s crab and Isle of Mull cheddar dip was absolutely scrumptious. It arrived piping hot and served in a generous portion, accompanied by the perfect toast that meant she could skip the cutlery entirely. It was the sort of indulgent, tactile start that sets a high bar for the rest of the evening.

A Masterclass in Desserts and Coffee

The Wellington was paired with sides that did the main event justice. The honey-roasted carrots and buttered kale were excellent, but the creamy mashed potato was the real star of the accompaniments. After the main, a brief pause was necessary, during which Birdy enjoyed a cafe latte with salted caramel syrup. Her verdict was absolute: it was the best salted caramel latte she has ever had in her life. It seems likely that she will be returning to Gordon Ramsay’s kitchen for the caffeine alone.

When we did find room for the final course, the chocolate and heather honey tart and the rhubarb and ginger trifle were both exceptional. The trifle was particularly impressive, served in a generous quantity that defied the usual small portions found in high-end establishments. It is clear that while Bread Street Kitchen & Bar can do the expensive, “treat” side of dining well, it also offers great value. The seasonal set menu is a brilliant option, offering two courses for 22 pounds or three for 27 pounds. It is a fantastic idea for a birthday celebration, especially since you can bring 11 friends along to share the atmosphere.

Things to do in City Centre

The restaurant is perfectly situated for those looking to indulge in some serious retail therapy. St Andrew Square is the gateway to the city’s most prestigious shopping districts. A short stroll will take you to the luxury departments of Harvey Nichols, where you can browse the latest high-end fashion. Just across the way, the extensive collections at John Lewis offer everything from home treats to designer beauty.

For those planning a full day in the capital, the Edinburgh Playhouse is just around the corner, offering a world-class programme of musical theatre and live performances. The area is exceptionally well-connected; whether you are arriving by bus or taking the Trainline into Waverley Station, you are only minutes away from the action. If you fancy a bit of high-street luxury followed by a top-tier meal, this corner of the city is an absolute hub for a day of indulgence.

Overall

Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar is an absolute discovery that rewards those who look past the celebrity branding. Whether you are looking for a lavish communal feast like the venison Wellington or a high-value set menu for a group celebration, the quality of food and warmth of service are consistently impressive. It has earned its place as one of my go-to spots for a treat in the heart of Edinburgh.

Note: Girdy and Birdy were kindly treated to a complimentary meal. No wonder we ordered the expensive things.