Edinburgh Castle, a towering fortress that has stood guard over the Scottish capital for centuries, is not only a marvel of architecture but also a destination for culinary enthusiasts. The castle’s Redcoat Café offers a diverse menu that showcases the best of Scottish produce and local flavors, catering to visitors from around the world.
The Hot Food Counter: Savory Delights
The heart of the Redcoat Café’s menu is the Hot Food Counter, which serves up a variety of hot and hearty options. Visitors can indulge in freshly made soups, ranging from traditional Scottish vegetable soups to more adventurous creations, all served with bread or oatcakes and butter. For those craving something more substantial, the café offers a selection of pizzas, each made with flour from Mungoswells Farm and cheese from Yester Farm Dairies. From the classic Margherita to the Courgette & Prawn and Chicken & Mushroom varieties, there’s a pizza to suit every palate.
In addition to the hot dishes, the Redcoat Café also offers a range of salads, including the Castle house salad, Ayrshire new potato salad, and the tangy Tay Valley root veg slaw. These fresh and flavorful options provide a lighter alternative for those seeking a healthier meal.
Cakes and Snacks: Indulge in Scottish Delicacies
No visit to the Redcoat Café would be complete without sampling the delectable selection of cakes and snacks. From the classic fruit and plain scones to the indulgent Dundee loaf and millionaire’s shortbread, the café’s baked goods showcase the best of Scottish baking. For those with a sweet tooth, the iced ginger and treacle loaf, as well as the chocolate fudge & Malteser cake, are sure to satisfy.
The snack selection at the Redcoat Café is equally impressive, featuring a range of Scottish favorites such as Tunnock’s wafers and tea cakes, as well as award-winning free-from Scottish bakery cakes from Lazy Day. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing Isle of Arran ice cream or a bag of Pipers crisps.
Beverages: Quench Your Thirst
To complement the delicious food offerings, the Redcoat Café provides a wide selection of beverages, both hot and cold. Coffee lovers can indulge in a range of espresso-based drinks, including macchiatos, lattes, and cappuccinos, while tea enthusiasts can savor a pot of whole-leaf tea.
For those seeking a refreshing non-alcoholic option, the café offers a variety of soft drinks, including the iconic Irn Bru, as well as Sanpellegrino, orange juice, and Summerhouse Lemonades.
Special Dietary Options: Catering to All
The Redcoat Café recognizes the importance of catering to visitors with specific dietary requirements. The menu features vegan options, including vegan feta, vegan mozzarella, and vegan butter, as well as gluten-free bread and pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
Opening Times and Additional Information
The Redcoat Café is open daily from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the castle’s culinary offerings throughout the day. The café sources local Scottish produce wherever possible, supporting local suppliers and reducing food miles.
Visitors are advised to inform the staff of any specific allergies or dietary requirements, as the kitchen uses a wide range of ingredients, some of which may contain allergens.
In conclusion, the Edinburgh Castle Food Menu offers a diverse and delectable dining experience, showcasing the best of Scottish cuisine in a historic and iconic setting. Whether you’re craving a hearty soup, a freshly baked cake, or a refreshing beverage, the Redcoat Café has something to satisfy every palate.
References:
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/media/4uul1p4q/red-coat-menu.pdf
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/eat/redcoat-caf%C3%A9
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/eat
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/media/1551/redcoat-cafe-col-menu.pdf