Edinburgh family-run Italian restaurant Contini George Street is celebrating 20 years in business.
The first restaurant in Scotland to be officially recognised as an ‘Authentic Italian Restaurant’ by Accademia Italiana della Cucina, Contini opened in April 2004 and has since retained its reputation as one of Edinburgh’s classiest hospitality destinations.
Inspired by the interiors of a Florentine Palazzo, Contini George Street is located in one of the capital’s grand former banking halls, where it is said to have cultivated a ‘distinctive and authentic modern Italian dining experience’ that echoes the traditions brought over a century ago by both Victor and Carina Contini’s family.
The restaurant still sources its produce directly from the Italian markets, refreshing the menus on a daily basis reflecting what’s in season in Italy and here in Scotland.
Commenting on the Accademia Italiana della Cucina award, Carina Contini said: “We are thrilled to be recognised at Contini George Street for our commitment to delivering great Italian food here in Edinburgh.
“This prestigious award honours our dedication to sourcing the best authentic ingredients direct from Italy. Whether it’s the sweet Amalfi lemons or our own family single estate olive oils, made on my niece’s family farm in Tuscany.
“Our Mozzarella di Bufala is sourced from Caseificio di Luca Ponticorvo in Alvignano and is exclusively available to us in the UK. Made on the day we order it is delivered from Milan directly to Edinburgh, bringing a taste of Italian sunshine to our dishes,” said Contini.
“Our fresh produce arrives weekly at our restaurant from suppliers we love. Provenance is vital. We’re thrilled to share a taste of Italy with Edinburgh.
“Over the last 20 years, our business has thrived and evolved due to the support and expertise of our skilled team. We are driven by the next generation, helping us to be better today and tomorrow.”
After opening Contini, Victor and Carina went on to open The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant at the National Gallery in 2009, offering views of Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens with a menu of classic dishes like fish and chips and cullen skink alongside seasonal favourites. It has become renowned for its annual Burns Supper celebrations.
Then in 2014, the Contoni family opened Cannonball House at the top of the Royal Mile, with the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, serving monthly changing seasonal tasting and a la carte menus featuring the best local artisan ingredients.
Along the way, Carina has become a leading figure in the Scottish food scene, both as the first female chef appointed to the Slow Food Chefs Alliance (now Cooks Alliance) and a Scotland 2014 Food and Drink Ambassador.
