January is a tough month for everybody, with the festivities now a fading memory and the cold weather continuing to bite.
But should you be looking for a wee winter treat or a chance to get out and have a slap-up meal, then thankfully Edinburgh has plenty of options.
And for a further excuse to support the capital's thriving restaurant scene, a top website has put together the venues proving popular with their followers.
Restaurant discovery platform and go-to dining companion Dish Cult has shared their choice of some of Edinburgh's favourite places for comfort eats, cosy drinks and seasonal dishes to warm you up this winter.
A spokesperson for Dish Cult said: "Whether craving cosy classics, a sweet treat or something different, Edinburgh is serving up a dish for everyone this Winter."
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The Barologist, Commercial St, Leith
The Dish Cult team praised the Barologist for going all out in the winter season, writing: "This Leith-based bar/eatery goes one better than a winter menu; it has an entire Winter room! Here you can observe a snowstorm encased in a vintage glass instrument and celebrate all things weather-related.
"Try some meteorological concoctions to match the season; like the Winter Berry Fizz, Aurora Borealis (with edible sparkle glitter), Spicedberg (served in a teacup) and Glacier Heights with a Kraken float over ice. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a bygone era, with aristocratic flair, reminiscent of the likes of Phileas Fogg."
Rhubarb, Prestonfield House
The Dish Cult team lauded the offering at this extravagant restaurant found within this famous 17th-century manor hotel.
"Take a fireside seat in the theatrical surroundings of Rhubarb," They wrote. "At the grand, Regency-era Prestonfield House. The dramatically decorated restaurant is so named as this was the first estate in Scotland to grow the crumble-friendly fruit back in the 18th century — you’ll find it makes a frequent appearance in dishes as a homage to this heritage.
"This is the perfect place for a romantic meal, or for a traditional afternoon tea. On a crisp and clear winter day, there’s nothing nicer than a stroll through the gorgeous grounds, alongside the resident peacocks. Prestonfield may be minutes from the city centre, but it feels like you’ve escaped to a country estate."
The Ivy on the Square, St Andrew Square
One of the city's most opulent restaurants, this glamourous eatery on St Andrew Square, was praised for its seasonal menus.
The Dish Cult team wrote: "Like the menus, the cocktails and external decoration change with the seasons. Eat here from morning till late at night, with breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner served. It’s also well worth stopping just for a drink at the polished bar, where crystal glassware hangs overhead and bartenders in bow ties serve exquisite beverages.
"Roast butternut squash with cranberries and goose, and turkey shepherd’s pie are just some of the wintery delights to be sampled at The Ivy."
Argyle Place
This welcoming local favourite was picked out for its hygge-style layout.
They wrote: "Get your day off to a great start with some gluten-free bakes, a steaming bowl of porridge and cold press fresh juices (such as orange, carrot and ginger) that are perfect for upping your immunity to protect against the sniffles at this time of year.
"Do try some Swedish berry buns that have been dusted with icing sugar for a snowy effect, accompanied by a cup of Mr Eion’s artisan roasted warming coffee."
Timberyard, Lady Lawson Street
Wood-burning stove? Check. Scandi-style interior? Check. Incredible food? Check. It seems Timberyard has it all.
"At Timberyard you can warm up beside the fire, in the on-trend surroundings of a whitewashed former warehouse," The DC team wrote. "With exposed natural wood beams, brick walls, original floorboards, chunky tables and bare tungsten bulbs. Food revolves around nature and the season’s produce, with ingredients from local artisan suppliers and Scotland’s own larder.
"Husband and wife patrons Andrew and Lisa have brought the whole family on board in running Timberyard on Lady Lawson Street, presenting thoughtful tasting menus, alongside a la carte and set selections. Food can be paired with elegant wines that champion the expression of the terroir, from the restaurant’s cellar."
The Rabbit Hole, Roseneath Street
The Rabbit Hole was picked out for its strong connections to local suppliers and its top notch ingredients.
They wrote: "This bijou, independent Marchmont restaurant serves seasonal dishes crafted from scratch. The venison and black pudding pithivier with quince, winter greens and mashed potato; lamb rump with winter greens, sautéed baby potatoes and salsa verde; and baked vanilla mascarpone cheesecake with honey figs and ginger biscuit crumble mustn’t be missed.
"Family-owned, The Rabbit Hole places a strong focus on local suppliers, so you’ll see ingredients from the likes of uber-local Eddie’s fishmongers I J Mellis cheeses taking centre stage. Candlelit tables with banquette seating give the place a cosy feel that will help you coorie in this winter."
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