Can’t wait to repeat the Ottolenghi experience in Edinburgh - Susan Dalgety

My sister and I are already saving up for a meal at his new place on George Street, which according to the man himself will have “strong flavours, the layering of flavours, the juxtaposition of spices and herbs against the food, fermentation, things that really amp up the level and the volume when it comes to the food.” In other, less cheffy, words, the food and service will be sublime.

Chef, restaurateur and food writer Yotam Ottolenghi. Picture: John Devlin

How do I know? Well, a few years back my husband and I treated ourselves to a meal at the London restaurant and deli where the Ottolenghi empire began in 2002.

To be honest I was a tad apprehensive when I made the booking. I am a huge fan of his cook books – even with their infamously long list of ingredients for the simplest dish – but could the food match his reputation?

Would it be so expensive that I would have to do the dishes? And given its location, would it be full of posh diners, with even more stuck-up waiters?

It turned out to be one of the best meals we have enjoyed in a very long time. The atmosphere was relaxed, even with a large party of London ‘creatives’ next to us.

The wine was delicious and the food out of this world. I have no idea what the kitchen did to the beetroot but it was the best I have ever tasted.

Our waiter, a delightful young man from Glasgow, made the whole experience something to remember. And while it wasn’t as cheap as pub-grub, it wasn’t ruinously expensive either.

If you want to try a taste of Ottolenghi, I suggest finding a copy of his Simple cookbooks – the second volume was published only last week. There you will find recipes which have ten ingredients or less, and are much easier than you think they will be.

But for a true taste of Ottolenghi’s unique blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, now made with the best of Scottish produce, you should consider booking a table. My mouth is watering already.