Nothing beats a good neighbourhood restaurant. The kind of safe choice you go to for some quality time with family, a comforting yet scrumptious meal, or for a special occasion. A safe haven, in a way, where one’s troubles disappear, and the weight of the world is lifted. That and so much more can be found at the newly opened KORA by Tom Kitchin in one of Edinburgh’s friendliest neighbourhoods.

KORA by Tom Kitchin is a family-owned restaurant by Michelin star Chef Tom Kitchin and Michaela Kitchin. The restaurant opened its doors in July 2022 and is a sister establishment to The Kitchin which has a Michelin star, as well as Scran and Scallie in Stockbridge, and The Bonnie Badger in the coastal village of Gullane. Following the motto ‘From Nature to Plate’, KORA’s menu is based on seasonality and brings in the freshest produce from local farmers. The restaurant was originally called Southside Scran and was badly damaged in a flood, forcing the owners to close. Hence the name choice KORA, which is inspired by the Greek goddess Persephone, also known as Cora: she is the goddess of rebirth, spring, and vegetation. It sends a message of perseverance, change, and hope, just like the changing seasons.

Beau Monde Traveler has had the opportunity to speak with Chef Tom Kitchin, who shared more about his passion for great food and people, as well as the road leading up to the opening of the restaurant KORA by Tom Kitchin. ‘It was like it was written in the stars with the name Kitchin.’, said Chef, ‘Ever since I started washing dishes at a local pub, I fell in love with the adrenaline and the excitement of working in a kitchen, the team spirit.’ With an exceptional work ethic, Chef Kitchin strives to deliver something special every time, and that determination has led him to where he is today as one of the most successful chefs in the UK.

Further reflecting upon his career and the industry itself, Chef shares about the heart of the matter within the food industry staying the same, only the way it operates. ‘The industry has changed dramatically, but the deep rootedness of the love of food is something that has never changed. The love of food, the joy that food brings to people’s lives, the joy of instantaneous feedback that you get from customers, the joy of sitting down with your family eating something freshly cooked – that will never change.’ Not only has the passion and love for the craft always been there, but also the appreciation for a great meal from diners.

Chef Tom Kitchin also supports Scotland’s youth by providing work opportunities and gives back to the community. ‘I find it very rewarding seeing the next generation the way that they’re embracing it and coming through – seeing them take control is really beautiful. These young people, that was me one day: with that determination, wanting to create something, wanting to work.’ He has been a passionate advocate for the support of youth work and the positive impact it has on people and the community.

When asked about KORA by TK, Chef recalls the challenges his family and staff faced for two and a half years after having to close Southside Scran and going through the pandemic. Opening again meant a rebirth from the hardship they had faced. ‘Me and Michaela, we felt that there was something missing in the neighbourhood here, a proper neighbourhood restaurant. When you have a really good neighbourhood restaurant, it’s the kind of place you come to once a week or once a month as a local, and you feel like you’re just home, and leave the troubles of the world at the door.’ The restaurant has a modern, yet homely feel to it, inviting guests to kick back and just enjoy themselves.

When asked about what to expect from the seasonal menu at KORA by TK, Chef Tom Kitchin passionately expressed, ‘You’ve got to be on the ball, you’ve got to be thinking, you’ve got to be ahead of the game. We just really want to connect products that come into season at the same time.’ With a green and fresh summer menu, fine diners can dig into a wide selection of both meaty and plant-based dishes. Starting out with a bar snack, such as the broccoli tempura with Asian dressing, well-heeled travellers will be taken back to a time in Japan, indirectly inspiring to book another trip. For starters, hand-dived Orkney scallop ‘à la Grenobloise’ will leave visitors wanting more. The perfect balance between the texture and taste is noteworthy and is a true representation of great Scottish seafood.

And for the main course, a braised Highland Wagyu shin with spinach, green peppercorn sauce, and Koffmann’s skinny fries will satisfy any beef lover. The exquisite flavour paired with a soft texture takes one to a dreamlike state. As for dessert, the floating island custard and pralines topped with caramel sauce is a must at KORA by Tom Kitchin. It is like a mouth-watering floating cloud that will transport you to another dimension.

Thus, KORA by Tom Kitchin offers something for everyone, with a wholesome balance between luxury and a homely feel. The essence of a family business is present from the first moment one walks in, and the hard-working yet friendly character of everyone involved in making the fine dining experience happen is apparent. ‘If you want a real taste of what’s seasonal and great in Scotland with a really buzzing environment in a beautiful part of town, then you should come check it out.’, says Tom Kitchin.