Weird and wonderful treats to headline this year’s Edinburgh Food Festival

Enjoy savoury ice cream and edible insects as well as more tasty traditional Scottish fare, writes Sean Murphy

Assembly’s Edinburgh Food Festival, which launches today, is set to offer the capital a taste of some very unusual flavours, alongside some of the country’s top food and drink producers.

Returning to the city’s George Square Gardens following a hugely successful event last year in which 25,000 people attended, the foodie event will run until Sunday 30 July, and will kick off the Festival season which will take over the city this summer. Organisers of the free food and drink event say they will welcome guests of all ages to the gardens, with stallholders offering everything from GROATS porridge, to Alanda’s Scottish lobster, and Crema Caravan’s Crème Brulee.

Not to be outdone, artisan juices and drink vendors will also be on hand to quench thirsts throughout the five days with the likes of JUS, Poco Prosecco and Fyne Ales, all putting in an appearance.

For those seeking a gastronomical challenge or those just curious to try something new, Philippa Marsden, graduate of Edinburgh’s Queen Margaret University Gastronomy MSC, will be unveiling the joys of edible insects in the Piccolo Tent. Regarded by many as a future source of protein, Philippa will delve into the what, where and why of this curious new cuisine trend, while ‘fresh’ samples will be given to the first 50 guests.

Also taking to the stage to talk all things food and drink are key industry figures such as Shirley Spear (founder of The Three Chimneys), Carina Contini (chef and restaurateur) and Blair Bowman (whisky writer and consultant).

As a summer festival, there will be the usual focus on products like ice-cream – with a twist. This year, Jannettas Gelateria will be fusing their award-winning ice-cream with savoury ingredients to create unique flavours – think basil and oregano, avocado and blue cheese.

Sharon Burgess, MD of Assembly Festival and Edinburgh Food Festival, said: “We’re excited to be back, bigger and better for a third year with the finest line-up of Scottish stallholders yet.

“At Assembly we love to push boundaries which is why we’ve brought you edible insects, savoury ice-cream and not to forget, Scotland’s biggest brunch!”

0 Sienna and Elle try the unique treats