I admit to having form when it comes to the Sheep Heid Inn. Many a night, I’ve thought, just one more round in the cosiness of it’s bar and several times I’ve managed to demonstrate my lack of hand to eye coordination in its charming skittle alley.
The Sheep Heid
This popular Duddingston Village haunt has had something of a dramatic makeover since my day. The floors are polished and the seating on the fancy side of gastro pub. But such is the way of the world: there’s no place for the old fashioned boozer any more…We’re offered the option of a Vegan menu, which I find surprising, and I’m not alone. I spot a couple of vegan bloggers I know and one remarks that they “didn’t think they’d have anything for us here.” Indeed it’s a sad thought that vegans might be wandering the villages of Edinburgh, knocking on the doors of ye olde inns only to be told they have nothing for them. It’s a sort of millennial, woke version of the nativity. However it’s the ideal place for an Easter Sunday lunch if you fancy a bit of countryside in the City. Vegans and Atheists welcome.
The Lobster Shack North Berwick
There’s nothing I love more than seafood where it ought to be eaten: in a harbour. I’ve been a big fan of The Lobster Shack in North Berwick for some time, as nothing to my mind can beat a lunch of lobster and chips. The weather can sometimes scupper my plans but no more: the people behind the LS now have a proper harbour side restaurant in Northy. At The Rocketeer you can sample North Berwick lobster, fish and chips, seafood platters and burgers. They advertise on their website that it’s fully air conditioned, because, goodness knows, we often sweat our socks off in harbour side restaurants in Scotland. They’re a registered First Fish Buyer, meaning they purchase the freshest catch, directly from the harbour. Its fully licensed too so if you’re going from Edinburgh take the train! The people behind this new venture and the Lobster Shack are the ever popular Nether Abbey Hotel, which was once owned by Rod Stewart’s cousin. Rod the Mod often stayed there with his then best blonde, Britt Eckland. Every day’s a school day, chums.
The Barologist by The Shore
I’m rarely a fan of ‘theme’ establishments but make a strong exception for The Barologist by The Shore. Formerly the Cameo Bar, the new proprietors have not stinted in creating a unique and fun big night out venue. Fitted out steampunk style its truly something to behold and the food and cocktails are fantastic. Interestingly they have a special offer where you get a free meal if it’s your birthday (T&Cs apply, obviously).
But on Easter Sunday what might that mean for Jesus? Ok, it’s a few months since his birthday but surely for his resurrection he might get a free Sunday roast, maybe taking , oh I don’t know, twelve pals along? The Barologist is very instagrammable and they’ll even print a photo of your choice on top of your cocktail or coffee. So get the smartphones out disciples and spread the happy word.
And if your Easter weekend features nothing more thrilling than a trip to IKEA, why not purchase their flat pack chocolate Easter Bunny. Yes, as part of their Varkansla range the self assembly treat can be purchased for only £2.95, which leaves plenty of cash left for Dime Bars and tea lights.
Happy egg rolling, folks!
