In Edinburgh we are now spoilt for good Sunday Brunch spots. However, this little gem in Stockbridge shines out on the corner of North-West Circus place. Opening a restaurant here is always a fairly bold move considering the competition nearby, but this place certainly gives the other eateries a run for their money.
There is no doubt that The Pantry has been growing in popularity since opening. We had to rush past another couple in order to grab the last table, which made the visit even more satisfying- getting the last spot. Browsing through the menu was not too exhausting but there was enough there to leave me torn between a few ‘brunchy’ dishes. When there’s a dish named after the place, I feel it’s only right to try it, so I went for the ‘Sunshine on Stockbridge’- a poached egg on olive oil toast with guacamole, roasted tomatoes, and seasoned with fresh chillies. Many of the meals on the menu had some unusual ingredients thrown together, but this one really did work and was one of the more unique brunches I’ve had. There was a whole range of brunch dishes scattered across the tables, each one looking as fresh as the last. This was something I really admired about The Pantry. They pride themselves on attention to detail, making you question your usual Sunday sausage or bacon butty.
The Pantry also strives to use local and seasonal produce which sets it apart from the other Stocky B competitors. The menu can therefore change on a daily basis, giving you confidence that all of the meals are wholesome and freshly prepared. You will also leave feeling as if you have supported the local farmers and done your good deed for the day- great way to end the week!
Despite the busy-ness of the place, the staff were really attentive, the food came quickly and there was a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. They have tarted the inside up with some quirky décor and good lighting, making it a perfect cosy Sunday spot. I’ve also heard many people going for their dinner or afternoon tea and the cakes certainly looked like they wouldn’t disappoint. The only complaint would be about the price- most brunch dishes were around £8 or £9, but I guess that’s what you get for eating local produce. All in all, it was a delight to eat here as they are so dedicated to producing top quality meals with ingredients an arms stretch away.
About Louise Stoddart
After finishing university last summer, I took a year to go travelling and immerse myself in different cultures and cuisines. I am now back in Edinburgh doing some freelance writing, indulging in the Edinburgh foodie scene. My food blog and travel blog are regularly updated and document all of my experiences. Enjoy!
Good place but I can’t get away from the price, a bog standard breakfast fry ended up costing me £15 including £1.50 per fried egg and £2 for one piece of toast! Quality produce is all very well but not at ridiculous prices, I’ll be sticking to my regularly brunch spot in Glasgow’s west end at £5 for the same meal!
I can only apologise – Rebecca McLauchlan thought it would be funny to post using my identity having a go at the food. She thought this would be funny because she knows how much I love going to the pantry – I enjoy going there and think you definitely get what you pay for!
No, the first comment was Euan Graham and now Jamie has brought me into this for some reason? Personally I would agree with Euan – it was overpriced, but then again it is, as pointed out in the article, local produce. And Jamie that’s definitely not what you were saying earlier…