Brunch, Bites, and Bottles: Discovering Ardfern in Edinburgh

A spotlight on Edinburgh's Ardfern

Ardfern, nestled in Leith, Edinburgh, is a spirited café, bar, and bottle shop that stands out for its thoughtful, approachable concept. Founded by Chef Roberta Hall-McCarron, who is also behind the renowned The Little Chartroom and Eleanore, Ardfern combines the quintessence of Scottish hospitality with contemporary, relaxed dining. The venue operates all day, creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors to enjoy everything from a quiet morning coffee to evening drinks and bites.

Ardfern is laidback while still managing to feel quite pampering, making it a great spot for just about every kind of occasion, whether it’s a casual coffee catch-up or a more intimate dinner. The interior is warm and inviting, with a mix of modern and rustic elements that create a cosy yet stylish environment. The staff are known for their friendly service, ensuring that every guest feels right at home.

Their noteworthy bottle shop adds another dimension to Ardfern’s offering, allowing diners to pick up a bottle of their favourite wine to take home or enjoy with their meal. With more than 100 wines to peruse, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect bottle as a keepsake.

Each part of the day offers a different experience at Ardfern. Mornings are all about relaxed brunches and specialty coffee, making it an ideal stop for anyone looking to start their day with something comforting yet refined. As the day progresses, the focus shifts to casual bites and drinks, with a particular emphasis on their carefully curated wine list. Evenings bring a lively yet intimate vibe, with small plates that encourage sharing and socialising.

The restaurant prides itself on serving simple yet flavourful dishes that highlight the best of seasonal Scottish produce. Their brunch menu includes favourites such as their Hash brown with XO sauce and spring onion, Grilled sourdough with chocolate & hazelnut spread or strawberry jam, and the Full breakfast complete with pork belly bacon, venison lorne sausage, beef haggis, tattie scone, beans, poached egg, toast, and brown sauce.

For those visiting in the evening, the menu evolves to include small plates and snacks that are ideal for sharing. Standout dishes include Ham & cheese croquetas with pickled chilli, Salt cod scotch eggs with romesco and almond, Chilled mussels with seaweed hot sauce mayo, furikake, and baby gem lettuce, and their Breaded hake sandwich, hispi, curry sauce, and a hash brown.

Ardfern’s approach to food and drink is simple but thoughtful, prioritising quality and local sourcing. With a menu that changes with the seasons, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or an evening meal, Ardfern is a place where the love for good food, good drink, and good company come together.

You’ll find Ardfern at 10-12 Bonnington Road, Edinburgh EH6 5JD, open seven days a week from 8am. Be sure to secure your next table right here on Dish Cult.