FOOD : Scottish Street Food Champions, JUNK, elevate the Sunday Roast Experience
In the vibrant culinary scene of Scotland, street food vendors have been pushing boundaries and delighting foodies with their innovative creations. Among these champions, are the incredible Junk who have elevated street food to an art form, and now they’ve turned their attention to a beloved classic: the Sunday Roast.
Recently, there was news that Junk had left their street food home at Edinburgh Street Food. However, I’ve got it on good authority from a little bird that they’ll be making a comeback—so keep your ears and eyes peeled for announcements! Fortunately, Junk now has a permanent home in Newington, specifically on South Clerk Street.
This cosy space accommodates around 40 covers and features decor that strikes the perfect balance between edgy and inviting. Imagine exposed brick walls bathed in warm, ambient lighting—a delightful blend of industrial chic and cosy sophistication. For the best experience, we recommend sitting at the far end of the restaurant, where you can enjoy a view over lush gardens—a perfect spot for dining in the sunshine.
The atmosphere at Junk is lively, with great tunes and friendly banter. It’s a place where Scotland’s incredible larder meets global influences from Asia, America, and Europe. Whether you’re sipping Bloody Marys or indulging in their Sunday Roast, Junk promises an unforgettable dining experience.
As the Edinburgh Fringe Festival approaches, with its bustling crowds and lively performances, Sundays become a precious respite. Junk Bar & Restaurant has been serving up their delightful Sunday Roast for a few months now, and it’s the perfect way to unwind. Imagine easing into the day, exploring the city, and then settling down for a tremendous Sunday Roast in the late afternoon. Amidst the chaos of August, Junk offers a calm oasis—a place to slow down, savour hearty flavours, and celebrate the simple joy of good food.
Their Sunday Roast menu has three sections - The Snacks (£6 each), the Bit on the Side (£7 each) and the Roasts (25.95 each)
Junk truly excels in their creativity and expertise when it comes to crafting small plates. Their innovative approach ensures that each bite is a delightful adventure. Read my previous review HERE.
The star of the small plates is undoubtedly the Lamb Croquettas. Picture two logs of crispy-coated, succulent pulled lamb, perfectly seasoned, and elegantly presented. The spiced onions and curry mayo add an extra layer of flavour that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Beef Tartare on tortilla crisp with chipotle and manchego. This dish combines raw beef’s luxuriousness with the crunch of tortilla. The chipotle adds the smokiness and heat whilst the manchego cheese adds richness with its contribution of a slightly nutty, tangy flavour.
You could also have chosen Gordal Olives with lemon and Tajin or Homemade Foccaccia with stuff n things!
Whether you’re hung over or not, a Bloody Mary on a Sunday is always a good idea and this one, was possibly one of the best I’ve had in years. I think the secret ingredient might just be the PX sherry.
If you’re indulging in Sunday Roasts at Junk, the side dishes might take a back seat—especially if you’re saving room for dessert. However, if savoury delights are your preference, feel free to order away!
We tucked into Three Cheese Roast Cauliflower with Sriracha Wizz Crust AND the Confit Chicken with charred corn, ranch dressing and dill pickle.
Now, let’s get to the main star of the show—the reason you’ve stepped in on a Sunday: the Sunday Roasts!
There are three mouth-watering options, each served with a delightful array of accompaniments:
30-Day Dry Aged Roast Angus Striploin: Picture a thick succulent slice of perfectly aged Angus striploin, cooked to perfection and still pink. The robust flavour of the beef pairs beautifully with the other elements on the plate.
12-Hour Slow Roast Szechuan Pork Belly: Brace yourself for tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly infused with aromatic Szechuan spices. The crispy crackling and juicy meat make this a true indulgence.
Roast Squash Wellington with Mushroom Duxelle: Vegetarians rejoice! From photos on their socials, this Wellington features roasted squash encased in flaky pastry, complemented by a rich mushroom duxelle. I’m sure this won’t disappoint!
And don’t forget the accompaniments: roast carrot, BBQ tenderstem broccoli, charred red onion, King Edwards roasties, buttermilk yorkie, and onion-thyme gravy. Sundays just got a whole lot tastier!
No matter what anyone says, there is always room for dessert. There are two desserts (£8 each) and one cheese plate (£9) paired with three digestifs (optional).
We chose the Cherry Bomb with coffee mousse, chocolate, hobnob and cherry sorbet AND the Roly-Poly with macerated strawberries, meringue and lime curd.
While the desserts at Junk are pleasant, they didn’t quite reach greatness for me. Nevertheless, they serve as a sweet and satisfying conclusion to your meal.
Junk is a family-owned business where Cam (the Chef) and Jade (Front of House and multitasker extraordinaire) work tirelessly to create the ultimate “Junk” food experience. The staff are not only friendly but also incredibly helpful and knowledgeable.
Junk knows how to elevate the Sunday Roast experience, combining Scottish flair with global influences. So gather your friends, head to their cosy space on South Clerk Street, and savour every bite. Cheers to lazy Sundays and unforgettable dining!
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT JUNK
They cater for vegetarians
There is a 1.5 hour time limit for Sunday Roasts
They are disabled access with entry on street level and toilets on the same level
They are not dog friendly
Opening hours are Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri: 5.30 - 9.30pm, Sat: 12 - 9.30pm, Sun: 12 - 4pm, 5.30 - 9.30pm. Bar open until 12pm for all bookings.
*Closed on Tues normally but open 5.30 - 9.30pm during Ed Fringe Festival (August)
Junk Bar and Restaurant, 58 South Clerk Street, Newington, Edinburgh, EH8 9PS www.wearejunk.co.uk
My Spoon Award : Gold Spoon 9/10
I was invited by Junk 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, judge and panelist 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