A sea change in the old town

Refurbishment signals change of focus for Edinburgh inn

White Horse was refurbished by The Compass Group and Punch.
White Horse was refurbished by The Compass Group and Punch.

AN inn in Edinburgh’s Old Town has been relaunched as a contemporary seafood restaurant following a major refurbishment.

Located on the Royal Mile, White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar opened following an extensive £329,000 revamp by operator The Compass Group in partnership with pub company Punch.

Features of the new-look venue include a dining area with booth seating and a large custom-made lobster tank; and a green marble bar where customers will be able to enjoy oysters and cocktails, alongside an all-day menu of small seafood dishes.

The White Horse’s menu is designed to showcase the best of British shellfish and seafood in a range of dishes intended to be shared by the whole table, such as platters and small plates. In addition, a selection of stand-alone dishes, like lobster and fries and whole lemon sole, will be available.

Mark Fraser, managing director of The Compass Group, said: “We wanted to go back to basics and create a classic and relaxed offering where the ingredients take centre stage, so sourcing the very best seafood is crucial for us at White Horse.”

On the drinks side, the offer includes a cocktail menu which draws on classic influences while incorporating seasonal ingredients and seaside themes.

Development manager for Punch, Steve Latto, said the refurb has “enhanced [the building’s] unique character while creating a stylish and welcoming environment”.