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Jamie’s Italian, Edinburgh

What is it?

Part of the popular chain of Italian-themed restaurants owned by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

First impressions?

Having been to the Glasgow restaurant a few months ago, with its functional, industrial vibe, we were surprised by the lavish surroundings in Edinburgh’s Assembly Rooms on George Street. An ornate stucco ceiling, glistening chandeliers and rich red decor add up to luxurious surroundings.

What did you have?

Mum had the super green veggie burger, a herby chickpea, bean and six-seed patty with balsamic onions, cottage cheese, gem and tomato in a brioche bun, £10.50 on its own or £13.50 with fries. Dad opted for the tender roasted aubergine, £9.95, topped with a ragù of tomatoes, lentils, raisins and pine nuts, garlicky almond yoghurt, rocket and pomegranate. Our daughter asked for the happy chicken lollipops, £6.50 – freshly-made lemony organic chicken fillet lollipops with baked hedgehog potatoes and crunchy seeds. The overall bill was a little over £35 including drinks.

How was the food?

Mum’s burger was a medley of delicious tastes and she declared it tastier than its meaty counterpart. The fries were crisp and lightly sprinkled with herby salt. The aubergine wasn’t a massive plateful but was beautifully cooked and seasoned, while the chicken lollipops made our daughter very happy, and she even ate all her hedgehog potatoes. We had a lot to do so didn’t have desserts although the menu was tempting, offering delights like tiramisu pavlova, molten chocolate praline pudding and wobbly panna cotta.

Good for kids?

The children’s menu is well thought out and sophisticated – it even includes a salmon fillet. All meals come in two sizes and are served with a fresh shake-me salad and a drink of the child’s choice. The very posh atmosphere might be slightly overwhelming for little ones but the friendly staff are smiley and welcoming.

Good for the rest of the family?

Our only quibble was that the tables are very slightly too close together but overall it’s an oasis of luxury in the heart of the city and the perfect family stop-off if you’re in Edinburgh for the Christmas Market.

Would you go back?

Definitely: it was the tastiest food we’ve had for a while.

Score:

4/5.