Tucked away within Edinburgh’s Royal Terrace Gardens, The Cottage offers an unusually intimate setting for private events in the midst of a buzzing city. The 19th-century building was designed by William Playfair and once served as the home of the gardens’ keeper; today, it has been reimagined as a small, characterful restaurant where seasonal Scottish cooking sits at the centre of the experience.
Exclusive hire gives groups use of the whole restaurant, accommodating up to 20 guests seated or 30 standing. That scale makes it especially appealing for milestone birthdays, small weddings and corporate gatherings where privacy matters. The gardens can also form part of the event, giving guests the chance to step outside and making the venue feel like a hidden, enchanted garden amongst the tourists and crowds.
The events team works closely with hosts on the details, from recommended suppliers and room set-up to drinks and bespoke menu design. Food is led by Peter Adshead, whose background spans Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star Edinburgh hotels, with menus shaped around the seasons and the produce available from the garden and trusted suppliers.
A sample tasting menu gives a good sense of the kitchen’s style. Dinner might begin with sourdough and garden herb butter before Isle of Wight tomatoes dressed with Kalamata olives, Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar and nasturtium. Halibut follows with Shetland mussels, gooseberry and sea herbs, while hogget is paired with smoked yoghurt, peas and a rich jus. Dessert might be a chocolate tart with miso caramel, crème fraîche and candied walnuts, with a George Mewes cheese board and Edinburgh honey available as an additional course. Vegetarian menus are given the same attention, with dishes such as barbecued leek with crowdie, garden pickles and parsley, or agnolotti with goat’s curd, chanterelles and peas.
It goes without saying that those with dietaries will be catered for, and you're welcome to work with the team on a special, bespoke experience for you and your guests.