Regular readers of the 5pm Dining blog, especially those who are also blessed with very long memories, may remember that we wittered on about the imminent launch of The Jolly Botanist way back in last August.
As it turns out, we were five months premature but, according to our chums at STV, the new bar and late night restaurant on Edinburgh’s Morrison Street is definitely opening to the public tomorrow.
Formerly The Spiders Web, it has been completely transformed by P&G Taverns who also have a hand in other Edinburgh watering holes such as McSorleys on the Southside; Mother’s on Howe Street and the Cask and Still on Leith Walk.
Surreal Victoriana
Surreal Victoriana appears to be the motif for The Jolly Botanist’s décor with chandeliers, teacup glasses and old bric-a-brac all putting in an appearance.
As well as a restaurant operation (details of which are still dim), The Jolly Botanist promises some seventy-odd gins. When used in G ‘n Ts, each one will be served with the most appropriate tonic and its own garnish.
Also in the Botanist’s pipeline is the ‘ginstitute’ which will explore the possibilities of matching gin and food.
Wilson Street Pantry
Meanwhile, in Glasgow, the Wilson Street Pantry is a new deli, shop, restaurant and café on, you guessed it, Wilson Street in the Merchant City.
It opened at the tail end of last week and breakfasts, light bites, salads, sandwiches and design your own sharing platters are all on offer.