IGGS: Spanish Temptations

Posted by Lara Moloney, Mon 09 Jun 2008
A mainstay in the Edinburgh scene for over 20 years, this Spanish restaurant is very well known for quality and expense. However, since sister restaurant Barioja has been taking all the glory it was time to check out this swanky yet understated classic. A bottle of wine, Vionta Albarino, recommended by the waitress was a perfect accompaniment to the meal, fruity and refreshing, but not too sweet or dry it went down a treat. A canapé of Tomato Mousse was light and fluffy with jamon pieces adding crunch - a very pleasant way to begin the evening.

Vieiras (scallops) with petals of tomatoes and a Jerez and herb dressing was light and perfectly cooked to a melt in your mouth standard. Mains of zarzuela (fish stew), a medley of squid, prawns and chorizo in a tomato-based sauce was tasty but not hugely original. The pargo (red snapper) with lobster bisque and puree of sweet potato and chervil complimented each other superbly. The red snapper had an exquisite marinated skin and the puree was deliciously creamy and full-bodied, blending well with the soft and sumptuous fish. A dessert of the house tart with delectable vanilla ice-cream, was stodgy and filling yet light and fruity, a somewhat strange combination yet thoroughly delicious.