I had read good things about the fine wines and adventurous dishes of The Fat Pony, from both Lunchquest and Jay Rayner. A new venture from David Ramsden, owner of excellent Edinburgh stalwart The Dogs, I was excited to try it firsthand with Caroline.
And so it was that on a cold Wednesday night I found myself surrounded by straight lines in stylish wood, enjoying a carafe of Petit Verdot to the soothing sound of Kurt Vile. The wine carried a whiff of smoky cherries, or, as Caroline remembers it, “jammy with a hint of licorice.” It was smooth and warming, with little acidity.
Alongside the wine we enjoyed several of the diverse and well executed small plates. (I love a small plate.) The sweet potato and ginger bao with julienne carrots and a dense satay was balanced in texture and taste, whilst the mackerel pate served with creamy beetroot slaw and homemade oatcakes was smooth and not too strong in flavour.
A selection of three cheeses, creamy, sharp and blue, came with black grapes and wafer thin apple slices. They made for a complementary selection, ideal for nibbling.
Surprisingly for me, the best dish was the tongue; its soft, delicately flavoured meat was offset with sweet gherkins, sharp wholegrain mustard and a firm, fantastically pink pickled quails egg.
In short, The Fat Pony is a delightful spot for a glass of wine, quick supper and a catch up, before the theatre, after work, or in between Christmas shopping. Relaxed vibes and top quality food and drink? Yes please.
The Fat Pony
47 Bread St
Edinburgh EH3 9AH
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