Making a highly unique addition to the Edinburgh restaurant scene, the Timberyard is the perfect place for visitors to relax with a light lunch while visiting the city. Although the Timberyard is slightly off the beaten tourist track, this adds considerably to its charm. You’ll find the restaurant easily enough, it’s a short walk from the Grass Market or just down the cobbled streets from Edinburgh Castle, deep in the heart of the urban jungle that is the Scottish capital.
The Timberyard is steeped in history and character. As its name suggests, the site was formerly a working timber yard, still fondly remembered by the older generation of local residents. Since the site was renovated by the Radford family, who now run the restaurant as a family business, it’s been decorated in a minimalistic style. It makes a refreshing relief from the hot summer streets and the airy atmosphere creates a pleasant dining experience, while maintaining the venue’s authentic charm.
When visiting the Timberyard for an early lunch the restaurant was still fairly quiet, with plenty of available tables. This was ideal for a relaxing light lunch, although booking in advance is to be recommended, as when I tried to go subsequently I was unable to secure a place.
The menu was excellent, offering vibrant flavour combinations alongside traditional classics. I loved the subtle combination of tastes that were outside the ordinary and not what you’d see every day in a restaurant of this kind. I appreciated that great care has been taken to cater the menu to all tastes, and diners can choose between bites, small and large options, making it ideal for every appetite.
I’d strongly recommend the Timberyard for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants to try an original menu in traditional surroundings, away from the tourist hotspots.