Partners and wine experts Jonathan Heredia and Isla Mosquera have opened a new French wine bar and bistro on The Shore in Leith – and named it Chez Bernard in tribute to Jonathan’s grandfather.
The new business – which claims to be Leith’s first French wine bar – is also described as a tribute to honest wine and ‘the joy of a long lunch’.
Heredia said: “Chez Bernard is deeply personal for us. It’s a tribute to my grandfather and to the simple moments that shaped my love for food, wine, and the table.
“I spent many summers with my grandfather, which is where my love for a long, leisurely lunch began.
“When this beautiful space became available just off Bernard Street, it felt like absolute fate for both of us. This is our way of keeping his memory alive, and Isla and I want to bring a little of that continental warmth to The Shore,” said Heredia.
While those long French lunches are a huge inspiration for the venue, the couple aim for the space to be a vibrant wine bar in the evenings.
With 15 years of combined experience in hospitality between them, Jonathan and Isla have curated what is described as an extensive wine list that pairs with the bistro’s authentic French and seafood offerings.
The Chez Bernard menu offers classic French sharing plates, including a selection of artisanal French cheeses and charcuterie, alongside an array of seafood dishes, including a salmon platter, dressed crab, and fresh oysters, and an assortment of hot dishes and additional sharing plates.
Heredia concluded: “We want this to be a welcoming place to share good food, enjoy wine, and spend time around the table with the people you love.”
