Patatino is a modern Italian trattoria nestled within The Hoxton Edinburgh in the Haymarket district of the city. The restaurant takes its name from the Italian word for 'little potato' and channels the relaxed warmth of Sorrento’s lemon-grove lined coast in both its menu and its mood.
On entering via its scalloped striped awning and floral façade, guests are met with interiors that evoke a contemporary Italian refuge. Dusky pink walls mingle with green pendant shades trellised columns and deep mid-blue velvet banquettes framed by dark-stained timber. A small baroque-style fountain sets the tone for drama softened by cosy corduroy booths and warm lighting.
The menu is a celebration of Scottish produce through an Italian lens, with hearty sharing plates and individual portions alike . Antipasti begin with deep-fried spaghetti squares dressed in tomato and spicy basil pesto or arancini filled with slow-cooked brisket, pea and smoked tomato, served with crisp charcoal focaccia. House-made pastas include linguine in a shellfish bisque with Eyemouth crab and Amalfi lemon, and bucatini cacio e pepe that balances peppery freshness with al dente bite . Sourdough pizzas arrive topped with Scottish buffalo mozzarella and tomato basil pesto or, for those seeking flavour that bites, nduja with haggis, jalapeño and hot honey over fior di latte.
For mains, charcoal-grilled steaks and shellfish such as lobster or langoustines appear alongside seasonal vegetables sourced from trusted Scottish suppliers. Meat is drawn from third-generation butchers and seafood from iconic fishmongers in Edinburgh . Desserts conclude the meal with tableside-finished tiramisù made to a recipe from the chef’s time in Florence and Rome, or a panettone pudding that reinterprets bread and butter pudding with Italian flair.
The drinks list offers creative Italian cocktails such as spritzes with peach strawberry or Amalfi lemon mist, alongside house-special negronis prepared at the table. Signature serves created in Rome and Florence include a Pata-tini and strawberry-infused grappa long drink. An all-Italian wine list is arranged by region and showcases both revered houses and emerging producers.
Patatino transports diners from the bustle of Haymarket to a sunny Amalfi afternoon. It is Italian cooking rooted in Scottish ingredients, presented with flair, generosity and intimacy.