Edinburgh’s Scottish Cafe & Restaurant has announced plans for a major redevelopment of the award-winning venue in early 2019, as part of the National Galleries of Scotland Collection Project works.
The Scottish Cafe, which is located within the Scottish National Gallery on the Mound, will now be closed until Spring to allow for the extensive refurbishment, including improved accessibility with direct access from the adjoining Princes Street Gardens.
The revamp of the Scottish Cafe is part of a wider £22m investment from the National Galleries of Scotland Collection Project, which will see the transformation of the Scottish National Gallery with new exhibition spaces and displays, including Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
During the redevelopment period, a new self-service Espresso cafe will be introduced to the foyer of the Scottish National Gallery. Run by Edinburgh’s Victor and Carina Contini, the cafe will serve hot and cold drinks, a wide selection of home baking and fresh savoury items.
Carina Contini, owner of The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant at the Scottish National Gallery, said, “We’re really excited that the National Galleries of Scotland is making this significant investment in the refurbishment of our premises.
“Following the 12-week redevelopment, our customers will benefit from improved accessibility from Princes Street Gardens, increased outdoor terrace capacity, single level indoor seating and an interior design makeover.
“We very much look forward to reopening in Spring 2019 with an even better dining experience. Our favourite dishes and excellent team will still be with us but with the addition of a refreshed interior and new menu additions.”
The independent, family-run cafe and restaurant won the top ‘Sustainable Business Award’ at the Catering in Scotland (CIS) Excellence Awards in 2018. The venue was commended for its strong commitment to sourcing Scottish, local, sustainably produced food and drink, as well as a proactive waste-reduction strategy and training initiatives that encourage and incentivise employees to consider implementing sustainability options and best practice.
Carina Contini and her husband, Victor, also own the award-winning Contini George Street and Cannonball Restaurant & Bar on Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh.
During the redevelopment of The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant, Carina and Victor will be serving cullen skink, fish and chips and award-winning traditional afternoon tea at their neighbouring venue, Cannonball Restaurant & Bar on Castlehill, opposite Edinburgh Castle. People who quote ‘TSC’ when booking will receive a complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival.
