There’s something magical about those unplanned evenings that unfold into extraordinary experiences.
What began as a pre-dinner drink with a new friend evolved into one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had in Edinburgh, showcasing the exceptional hospitality that makes our city’s food scene so special.
My evening started with Joanne Frette of Swirl Sip and Socialise, whom I had met earlier this year at a Burns Night Supper at Hotel Du Vin. Joanne offers curated food and wine experiences for visitors to Edinburgh, specialising in restaurant tours and tastings that give guests, often well-heeled Americans, a genuine “sense of place.” Her approach makes wine and whisky accessible to everyone, from beginners to connoisseurs, through private tastings, food and wine pairing dinners, and virtual events that connect friends across distances.
We’d arranged to meet at The Spence at Gleneagles townhouse for a quick dinner before I was due to catch up with a journalist friend fresh back from a South American sabbatical. But when Joanne mentioned she’d never visited the W Edinburgh, I suggested we venture up to their 11th-floor Joao’s speakeasy bar for one final drink.
Despite arriving early for my dinner reservation, the front-of-house team graciously accommodated us. Tony, behind the bar, treated us to miniature flights showcasing three of their signature cocktails. The drinks celebrate both Brazilian classics and the culture of Joao’s community in Liberdade – São Paulo’s largest Japanese district outside Japan – alongside a Bossa Nova selection inspired by the international artists who flocked to Brazil in the 1980s.
The venue delivers exactly what Joanne seeks for her clients: that crucial sense of place. With unprecedented 360-degree views across Scotland’s capital, fire pits, and live music, it’s where locals and visitors alike can experience Edinburgh from an entirely new perspective.
Knowing the W’s reputation for exceptional wine service, I asked if their sommelier was available. Within minutes, Sumith Alahakoon joined us, and what happened next perfectly embodied the W’s “Whatever, Whenever” philosophy. Learning that my friend Laura was arriving for dinner, Sumith spontaneously extended an invitation for Joanne to join us, promising “a very special evening.” He delivered on that promise spectacularly.
Originally, we’d planned to experience their W Sunset Session on the outdoor deck – a Friday evening tradition from 7-10pm against Edinburgh’s stunning skyline – followed by dinner in one of their new glass pod dining experiences overlooking Calton Hill.
However, with the weather not getting the memo that it’s supposed to be summer, the team seamlessly adapted, seating us at a prime window table in the W Lounge with Calton Hill views and easy access to the balcony for those essential Instagram moments.
The W Lounge showcases Sumith’s impressive collection of over 400 fine wines and Champagnes, dramatically displayed on a striking wine wall surrounding a dedicated tasting table.
We sampled Executive Chef David Lilley’s new Scottish-inspired menu, featuring everything from the snacks which offer Spicy Chorizo Popcorn and Perollo Gordal Olives to small plates like Charcoal Baked Beetroot with goats curd and horseradish, and the large plates of succulent Lamb Rump with potato gnocchi and café au lait sauce, North Sea Spiced Cod and Dry Aged Beef Burger.
But the evening’s true star was Sumith himself. With over 40 years of experience, he brings not just extensive wine knowledge but an engaging personality and captivating stories that transform dining into an experience. Rather than simply recommending wines, he took time to understand our group dynamic and selected a red bottle of Cigalus 2021 that perfectly complemented all our chosen dishes while enhancing our chat and connection.
This personal touch elevates the W Edinburgh beyond typical hotel dining. Sumith also offers Sommelier-led experiences including the 45-minute New Horizons Wine & Cheese Flight, where three expertly selected wines pair with artisanal cheeses as he guides guests through the interplay of flavours, textures, and aromas.
For our desserts, a Sticky Date Cake (malted caramel and vanilla bean ice-cream), a palate-cleansing Blood Orange Soft Serve (with candied flaked almonds, and vanilla crumble), and a cheese selection, Sumith chose a chilled glass of Kamoizumi Umesha liqueur from Hiroshima. Made by combining jumia sake, ume fruit (similar to plums) and sugar, it can only be described as Umelicious.
What struck me most about the evening was how genuine hospitality created unexpected connections. From Joanne’s expertise in curating authentic Edinburgh experiences to Sumith’s masterful wine service, and the seamless adaptability of the entire W team, it demonstrated why Edinburgh’s food and drink scene continues to impress both locals and visitors.
Sometimes the best experiences happen when you least expect them – when professionals passionate about their craft come together to create something spontaneous and special. The W Edinburgh, with its combination of stunning views, exceptional service, and commitment to that “Whatever, Whenever” philosophy, provides the perfect stage for these magical moments to unfold.
https://www.wloungeedinburgh.com
https://swirlsipsocialise.com/
