Review: The Captain Darling, Stockbridge
Stockbridge’s newest brasserie, The Captain Darling, brings laidback charm, bold flavours and a buzzing neighbourhood vibe to Edinburgh’s dining scene.
Manager Mark Barnett’s friendly team will welcome you in
There’s a hot new dining and drinking spot in Edinburgh’s bustling Stockbridge, and it’s already proving to be a local favourite. In prime position on Hamilton Place, The Captain Darling only opened this summer, yet when I arrived the bar and restaurant were already packed with diners, drinks flowing, and a birthday cake lit up en route to a table of celebrants. Resident cake bearer and The Captain Darling manager, Mark Barrett juggled a round of ‘Happy Birthday’ with finding us a cosy table for two, but word to the wise: book in advance.
The Captain Darling’s interiors are simple yet effective
The interiors give off a relaxed, laidback vibe — dark green walls, wooden touches, simple yet effective styling. It feels like a haven from busy Stockbridge life, while large windows make it an excellent perch for people-watching.
Chef Scott Smith’s menu is extensive and flexible. Not up for a full three courses? The starters double as bar snacks, making it an easy spot to drop in for light bites with friends.
Delicious and perfectly prepped Cumbrae oysters make the perfect starter
Tempted as I was by the haggis croquettes and grilled cauliflower and cumin soup, I couldn’t resist oysters. Six perfectly prepped Cumbrae oysters with mignonette dressing slipped down with ease — and if you’re an oyster lover, The Darling’s signature hot sauce is the best way to top off freshly shucked oysters on the half shell. A delicious start to what became a three-course indulgence.
The mains at The Captain Darling offer something for everyone.
The mains offer something for everyone, from comforting pies (think rich lamb neck ragu shepherd’s pie or beef shin and Guinness pie with suet pastry) to lighter vegetarian options like courgette and lentil lasagne. The charcoal grill, though, had us hooked. My 10oz Scottish beef Denver steak was tender, well-charred, and lifted by a pink peppercorn sauce, while my companion devoured chargrilled Scottish lamb cutlets with silky béarnaise. Both were faultless.
Stuffed but easily persuaded by our server’s enthusiasm, we moved onto a third course. As savoury fans, we shared the aged Comté with oatcakes, dressed leaves, honeycomb, and chutney — nutty and robust, just the way I love it. But we were also cajoled into trying the milk chocolate mousse, a light, creamy finish that was indulgent without tipping us over the edge.
The Captain Darling wine menu is accessible yet extensive
Service here is a real highlight. The team are friendly, knowledgeable, and quick to suggest just the right dish or wine pairing. Mark in particular knows the list inside out and is confident in guiding you to the perfect glass. Prices are refreshingly accessible too, which makes lingering over dinner and wine all the more appealing.
With its easy-going brasserie menu, warm atmosphere, and thoughtful wine list, The Captain Darling feels like a natural fit for Stockbridge. It’s the kind of place you can just as easily drop in for oysters and a glass of fizz as settle in for a full Sunday roast. And judging by the buzz on opening night, Edinburgh has already embraced its newest darling.
Discover the ‘Evening Darling’ Deal
Discover the Evening Darling Monday to Friday set menu offer from £25
Want to try it out for less? I you fancy dipping into the menu midweek, the restaurant has just launched its Evening Darling Set Menu Deal — two or three courses served Monday to Friday, 4–6pm (£25/£28pp). Expect classics done well: start with a Langoustine prawn cocktail, move onto steak frites with your choice of sauce, and round things off with a refreshing lemon posset. A brasserie bargain in the heart of Stockbridge.
The Captain Darling
16–18 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 5AU
www.thecaptaindarling.com