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Tollcross, Edinburgh
The Point Restaurant
Location: The Point Hotel, 34 Bread Street, Tollcross, Edinburgh, EH3 9AF [
map]
Phone: 01312215555
Open: Mon-Fri 7am-10am, noon-2pm, 6pm-10pm; Sat & Sun 7am-11am, 6pm- 10pm (lunch by appointment only); Monoboddo: Tues-Sat 10am-1am; Sun & Mon 10am- midnight
Website: www.point-hotel.co.uk
Hotel bars can often be soulless places, over-lit and under-filled, so it was with a little trepidation that we entered Monoboddo, the bar at The Point. We need not have worried however, as the stylish bar sits comfortably next to any of Edinburgh's trendy nightspots. Flashy cocktail-making tricks were eschewed for an approach based on creating the perfect mix, and the care taken preparing our drinks was noticeable the instant we tasted them.
The restaurant itself is comfortable and laid-back, furnished simply with wooden dining tables and chairs, crisp white tablecloths and muslin drapes; perhaps not what you might expect from a hotel which regularly features in 'top design' lists, but the brilliance of the design soon becomes apparent. Some eateries depend on being full to create an atmosphere, but The Point relies instead on a straightforward deal with the diner; it provides relaxed surroundings and excellent food, while you supply good company.
With the first part of this treaty taken care of, the second swiftly follows suit. The set menu is great value at £16.50 for two courses and £19.50 for three. There are a number of interesting choices, all served by staff who are affable without being intrusive.
To start, the leek and asparagus soup was well balanced and moreish, while the terrine of game was packed full of substantial chunks, the rich flavours complemented by the sweetness of the accompanying raisin and onion jam. The two meaty mains - rack of lamb with a herb crust, served with delicious rosemary and garlic potatoes, and the fillet steak - were cooked perfectly. Both dishes offered cuts that were succulent and juicy, and melted in the mouth. Dessert was a (shared) banoffee creme brûlée, an intriguing twist on a classic and a satisfying end to the evening's dining. We only then realised we were the last diners left in the restaurant, which just goes to show how well The Point keeps its side of the bargain.
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