Gordon's Trattoria sold to Edinburgh restaurant group

A restaurant group based in the Scottish capital has acquired a popular Italian eatery, situated on the city's historic Royal Mile. 

Gordon Scott, opened Gordon's Trattoria in 1982. Having recently announced his retirement, he recently sold the venue to Jim Tullis, owner of Merchant Leisure, for an undisclosed fee. The group plans to keep the restaurant as it is for now. 

Merchant Leisure owns bars and restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Its speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street, is inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century.

The menu

Classic Italian dishes populate the menu including Tagliatelle Reale – plump king prawns paired with asparagus and cherry tomatoes, simmered in olive oil, garlic, white wine and parsley. A range of pizzas such as the Primavera – topped with parma ham and a balsamic glaze drizzle – are joined by sharing options such as focaccia and a selection of chicken-based dishes such as Pollo Dianne, cooked in mushrooms, onions, French mustard and a brandy cream sauce.

Arthur Mustard, managing director at Merchant Leisure, comments: "We are very excited to announce our ownership of Gordon’s Trattoria. It’s such an honour to take over an Edinburgh establishment with such rich history and loyal customers. Our plan is to keep the venue as it is, for now, serving authentic Italian food in the heart of Edinburgh. We look forward to welcoming new customers, as well as meeting the locals who make this restaurant so special.”

(Image: Tom Duffin)

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