James and Maria Close create small bites menu for Johnnie Walker’s Edinburgh venue
The miniature dishes are similar to the globally-influenced canapés that kick off meals at the chef duo’s two-Michelin starred Raby Hunt restaurant near Darlington in County Durham.
Called STIR, the new menu sees a total of six bites - including the tropically-flavoured oyster aquachile, venison tartare with dill seeds; and the Green Apple, a visually-striking apple-flavoured dessert with a caramel mousse - offered alongside a selection of equally high-end cocktails.
Central to the Edinburgh-based project is the Four Corners selection that offers four cocktails made with Diageo whiskies from across Scotland - Cardhu, Glenkinchie, Caol Ila and Clynelish - with four of the Close's bites for £44.
The pair are also offering a handful of more substantial dishes including a black truffle croque monsieur.
James says the pair are likely to evolve the offering over the coming months and may soon introduce a small a la carte menu.
The Closes are working on a consultancy basis with the venue for at least a year with their food being cooked day-to-day by the site's in-house team.
The cocktails have been created by Johnnie Walker Princes Street head bartender Miran Chauhan.
“What makes James’ success so remarkable is that he is completely self-taught and has a curiosity for international ingredients. I knew his innovative approach would perfectly match Miran’s unorthodox methods to mixology and give us an opportunity to truly push the boundaries of flavour and fun with a one-of-a-kind menu,” says Johnnie Walker Princes Street food and beverage manager Jurica Gojevic.
“Through STIR we’re creating something totally unexpected and delivering an unforgettable experience for our guests at Johnnie Walker Princes Street.”
Launched in 2021, Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a 71,500sq ft space that ‘takes visitors on an immersive journey’ through the 200-year history of the famed whisky brand.
