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BURGER
When you are newly arrived in the highly energetic, ever-moving, almost breathing city of Edinburgh, you could do worse for luncheon than Burger, a specialist in well...burgers (unless you're vegetable-arian...then...no, perhaps no).
Now I know there are now what seem like millions of "artisan" burger shops and vendors of "the ultimate" burger etc. On the one hand, long may it continue, right? But on the other, ugh it is exhausting.
However Burger in the West End of Edinburgh does not seek to enhance delusions of grandeur, or proffer massively loud neon claims to be the ultimate eating experience, ever.
What it does is provide a nice, crisp modern yet warm atmosphere, a friendly service and genuinely tasty food.
Observe...
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SPIDERMAN: Homecoming
Though not strictly intrinsic to Edinburgh, I did see this film when I was at a loose end in one of its Odeon picture houses. So, a quick word...
In short, I found it to be broadly the best Spiderman film in the last decade plus.
As I said in my review of Civil War (see the BLOG ARCHIVE) when Tom Holland was introduced as the newest face of Peter Parker and his web-slinging alter-ego, I was initially sceptical about a. how credible he was going to be in the role, and b. whether the same generation could take yet ANOTHER new Spiderman reboot.
I needn't have worried. Whilst a tad self-inflated (as opposed to his co-star Jacob Batalon as Ned, who whilst funny seemed very self-inflated) I found Tom Holland's portrayal to be damn near perfect. Whimsical, funny, light, modern and also packing punch when needed; his is the perfect Spiderman for today's generation, and this film featured a near-perfect introduction proper. Dispensing with the over-worked origin story, we got a plot and delivery that seems like comic book personified, and it was glorious.
Add to all this a formidable supporting cast featuring the likes of a delightfully approachable yet powerful villain in Michael Keaton, refreshing and grounded youthful touches like Laura Harrier and Zendaya, stalwart Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan, a sexy, caring and endearing Marisa Tomei as Aunt May, and of course the ever irrepressible and fantastic Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man...the result is not only the best Spiderman film in years but definitely one of the best Marvel movies of recent times.
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TERRY ALDERTON: ALL CRAZY NOW/Edinburgh Preview
~ Monkey Barrel Comedy Club
You've not been to Edinburgh if you've not experienced the comedy club scene, or so they say. What they do not say, is how there is a distinct lack of Edinburgh Festival preview/warm up shows playing in actual Edinburgh! But no matter - I found one and a recognisable name no less among the annals of successful comedians on the circuit today - surrealist Terry Alderton indeed.
Normally I don't go for surrealist comedy, but Terry Alderton, as well as a surprise double-act partner known only as John, easily and fantastically intertwined wild and wacky ideas with brilliant observation, superb accents and great characterisation. The result being you could not help but laugh. I admit to initially feeling a tad reticent and confused as to what was quite going on, but you just have to roll with it and let go; that's when the hilarity ensues - and so it did.
One parting note though Monkey Barrel Comedy Club - you are a good venue, but I don't care what "vibe" and atmosphere your proprietors are trying to create for a gig, they should not be herding their audiences around like cattle before the start of the show.
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GHILLIE DHU
By far the best eating establishment I visited in Edinburgh - Ghillie-Dhu has taken an old Scottish mill building and made great use of it - showcasing traditional Scottish entertainment, atmosphere and a very appealing menu.
I myself partook in a fabulous Lobster and Smoked Salmon Rillettes (the star of the show) Moules Frites, and an unctuous marmalade sticky toffee pudding.
Surely, if ever you are seeking a fine eating establishment in Edinburgh - you would do well to pay a visit.
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THE HUXLEY
Another lunch stop I made was the Huxley. The saviour of this place was actually found in the form of the setting, the decor, and the friendly staff - all of which were very cosmopolitan, a nice blend of traditional and tasteful modernity and warm atmosphere. The food was quite a let down truthfully.
The Reuben burger was OK and an interesting concept but please do not smother it in gaudy, horrible acrid American-esque mustard, ketchup and bits of onion and pickle (or if you do at least say so on the menu) - the result is overwhelming and nearly inedible. Though on the plus side - the chips were excellent. The saving grace of the baked vanilla cheesecake was the glorified yet tasty warm berry compote accompanying it - the rest was so-so.
All in all not a bad lunch setting at all, but definite room for improvement.
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EDINBURGH
Broadly speaking from my brief time there, I am quite enamoured with Edinburgh and would happily live there. Bustling, vibrant, seeped in culture and history yet mostly striving to keep up with modernity (balanced out by the slightly overwhelming attempts to part tourists with their money) a superb and efficient public tram system, stunning views and sights and a people that generally make you feel welcome.
Thank you Edinburgh, I shall most certainly be back.
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