So for the first Meetup of 2023, we headed to Laila's for their legendary brunch in the New Town. Its is conveniently located opposite The Playhouse Theatre and just down from the St James Quarter (for those of you who are more familiar with Edinburgh it is where Pomegranate used to be!)
Lailas is impossible to miss with the pink flowery façade brightening up the street, inside is just as beautiful with gorgeous wallpaper and neon signs worthy of all the Instagram posts! As there was a large group of us, we got a large table at the back of the restaurant, away from everyone else, which was great! As you can imagine 15 people who are either getting to know each other or catching up about Christmas can be a bit loud but the staff dealt with us brilliantly!
The Food
For me, the menu is the perfect mix of deliciously sweet treats, morning egg options and some substantial dishes which allow the menu to carry from morning brunch to afternoon delights. There are also plenty of cakes to tempt you as you head to your seat!
The Wild Mushroom toast looked delicious with a generous slice of brioche and lots of sauce, the Pink Avocado Toast was also a favourite. Others had Buttermilk Chicken Pittas and the Beef Short Rib pittas both of which looked very substantial.
I couldn't resist trying the Crème Brulee French Toast ... and I was so glad I did! The Crème Brulee top sparkled as I poured over the berry sauce which provided some contrast from the undeniably sweet sugar shards covering the creamy custard underneath. It was delicious and there is no doubt I will be going back to have it again soon!!
The AF Alternatives
So Lailas has an unfair advantage in this regard considering we were there at 10am! There are cocktails on the menu but there are also various types of tea (apple tea was a favourite at our table) and there is a lovely selection of hot chocolates and coffee which would be perfect if you are popping in for an Instagram worthy coffee and cake! At Lailas I feel anything goes - you wont look out of place with whatever you choose and I love that!
Final Thoughts
Lailas is style and substance - its pink interior is backed up with some beautifully presented and equally as tasty food! The staff were attentive and friendly and the location is perfect for a pre-theatre lunch, a break whilst you shop in the St James Centre and most of all a place to get together with friends. Thanks for having us Lailas!
Jill x
All details of menu, opening time etc can be found on their website: Laila | The OG Instagramable Brunch spot in Scotland (lailabrunchedinburgh.co.uk)
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