Tomás Gormley and Sam Yorke to open Skua in Edinburgh

The duo behind fine dining restaurant Heron in Leith will open Skua on St Stephen Street in the Stockbridge area of the city.

Named after the brown seabird - in keeping with the pair’s ornithological theme of their restaurants – Skua will serve a menu of small plates, some of which will use often overlooked cuts to reduce food waste. 

Menu items will include koji marinated chicken; soy and chilli glazed octopus and cider infused maitake mushrooms cooked on a konro grill as well as the pair’s take on poutine.

The pair will use a whole carcass butchery approach for both Heron and Skua, using rare and heritage meat from local supplier Macduff Butcher.

A drinks list of cocktails and natural and rare wines created by Heron bar manager Seoiridh Fraser.

“We wanted to create a space perfect for a late-night drink or a bite to eat. Somewhere to go with friends after work or at the weekend,” says Gormley.

“Our food and drinks menus will be short and ever-changing. Showcasing techniques and flavours that interest us from around the world whilst staying true to our passion for local and sustainable produce.

“Expect bold flavours, great tunes and generous hospitality.”

Gormley and Sam Yorke opened Heron in 2021. They will cook across both the Heron and Skua kitchens, alongside chef de partie Aran Lowry.