Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh on the bustling Princes Street, you’ll find one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the magnificent Balmoral Hotel. This grand building stands as a beacon of luxury and history, with its clock tower famously set five minutes fast to ensure travellers make it to the adjacent Waverley Station in good time. The clock's presence is so commanding that it can be seen from both ends of Princes Street, marking time in its own unique way.

The Balmoral is not just a hotel but a symbol of elegance, offering a luxurious stay that embodies the essence of Scottish hospitality. Within its opulent walls lies the Brasserie Prince, a hidden gem in Edinburgh’s culinary scene. While open to both hotel guests and the public, this exquisite French-inspired restaurant is often overlooked by locals. However, it stands out as one of the city's finest dining establishments, combining French culinary techniques with the finest Scottish produce. The Brasserie Prince offers a dining experience that is both refined and inviting, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional cuisine in a stunning setting.

REVIEW OF THE NEW SEASONAL LUNCH MENU, BRASSERIE PRINCE AT THE BALMORAL, EDINBURGH

Brasserie Prince has just unveiled their new Seasonal Lunch Menu, which will be available until the end of March. This tempting menu is offered from Monday to Friday, with the option of two courses for £35 or three courses for £45. I had the pleasure of indulging in the three-course option, and let me tell you, it was an absolute treat.

The menu is quintessentially French, showcasing an array of dishes that are brimming with fresh, vibrant flavours. Each course is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, highlighting the best seasonal ingredients. From the succulent starters to the decadent desserts, every bite transported me straight to a Parisian bistro.

The menu is beautifully curated, offering a selection of three starters, three mains, and three desserts. We began our culinary journey with the starters.

For a taste of tradition, try the Jambon Persillé, a flavourful Ham Hock Terrine that's a true French classic. Or, dive into the Brandade de Morue, a delightful blend of salt cod and potato that transports you straight to the coastal regions of France.

I personally opted for the Velouté du Barry, a creamy and elegant cauliflower soup garnished with herb croutons and crunchy pieces of cauliflower. This velvety soup was a soothing start, with its rich texture and delicate flavours beautifully complemented by the crunchy, aromatic croutons. Each dish on this menu promises a delightful start to what is sure to be an unforgettable meal.

Moving on to the main courses, there are a couple of enticing options that promise a delightful dining experience.

For a taste of the French countryside, try the Galette Bretonne aux Champignons, a savoury buckwheat crepe filled with wild mushrooms. This dish offers earthy, rich flavours wrapped in a delicate, crispy crepe—a true celebration of Brittany's culinary heritage. Another excellent choice is the Saumon Grillé, a perfectly grilled salmon served with crispy chips. The salmon is cooked to perfection, its tender, flaky texture and rich flavour complemented by the satisfying crunch of the chips.

Personally, I opted for the Navarin de Poulet, a hearty dish of braised chicken. This comforting classic features tender chicken slow-cooked with carrots, beans, and potatoes in a rich, savoury cassoulet. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, with the succulent chicken and tender vegetables creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. This course, with its robust and homely flavours, is a true testament to the joys of French cuisine.

For dessert, treat yourself to one of these indulgent delights. The Mousse au Chocolat is a rich, velvety chocolate mousse paired with refreshing pistachio ice cream, offering a delightful contrast of flavours and textures. Alternatively, the Selection de Fromages is a cheese lover's dream, featuring an assortment of cheeses served with toasted fruit bread and quince jelly—a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.

I personally opted for the Crème Brûlée with Madagascan Vanilla. This classic dessert, with its creamy custard base and perfectly caramelized sugar topping, is elevated by the exquisite flavour of Madagascan vanilla. The first crack of the caramelized sugar gives way to the smooth, vanilla-infused custard beneath, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply divine. This elegant dessert is a fitting end to a spectacular meal, leaving a lasting impression with its rich flavours and delicate presentation.

For drinks, why not start with the elegance of a glass or two of Piper Heidsieck champagne? This renowned bubbly, with its crisp, effervescent charm, is the perfect way to set the tone for a luxurious experience. After you've enjoyed the refreshing burst of champagne, make your way to the bar to explore their newest creations—winter-inspired cocktails that are sure to captivate your taste buds.

Indulge in the Pear and Spice, a cocktail that balances the sweet, mellow notes of pear with a warming hint of spices, creating a cosy and delightful drink perfect for the season. Or, try the Mulled Wine Sunset, a cocktail that blends the traditional flavours of mulled wine with a creative twist, offering a rich and comforting drink that evokes the essence of winter evenings. Each sip transports you to a world of festive flavours, making it the ideal way to unwind and savour the season.

From the sophistication of champagne to the inventive allure of their seasonal cocktails, their drinks promise to elevate your dining experience in the most delightful way.

The staff here are truly outstanding. Their service is seamless and polished, with an almost intuitive understanding of exactly when you require their assistance. It's as if they have a sixth sense for anticipating your needs, ensuring a flawless and professional experience from start to finish.

Brasserie Prince has truly outdone themselves, offering a dining experience that is both elegant and delightful. If you're a lover of French cuisine or simply appreciate fine dining at wallet friendly prices, this seasonal lunch menu is an absolute must-try.

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT BRASSERIE PRINCE, BALCMORAL HOTEL

• They cater for vegan, vegetarian and gluten free

• They are open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Drinks

• They are not dog friendly

• They do have disabled access

Brasserie Prince, Balmoral Hotel, 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2EQ www.roccofortehotels.com/brasserie-prince

My Spoon Award : Gold Spoon 9/10

I was invited by The Balmoral to review their menu.

Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer and judge living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events), is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards. Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk