The start of Scottish Food Fortnight somewhat undermined my plan to have a lazy Saturday. In the name of efficiency, I thought I’d pay the Mela a visit, too, and grab some tasty al fresco curried delights.
Stall front
The Mela has been flourishing as an annual cultural highlight in Leith Links, for a number of years. It brings together a vast array of talents, showcasing music and dance, and a range of artistic, culinary and sartorial stalls.
After having sampled some very spangly dancing, seen some excellent drumming, and browsed the racks and rails, our attention turned to our lunchtime needs.
Chickpeas
I was joined on this quest by Anne, my mother. She, like me, was recovering after a busy August. As much time as I’d spent at the Book Festival, she’d spent double at various Fringe shows.
After contemplating a range of places, we settled upon Shangreela, mainly because their massive open hot-plates, covered in tasty curried treats, looked mightily impressive.
Anne opted for some chick peas and rice, while I opted for lamb kerahi and naan. Served in generous portions in plastic trays, this had much the same feel to it as the Mosque Kitchen.
Lamb
My lamb was tender and gorgeously spiced, and the naan freshly made. I tried some of the chick peas and they were mighty fine, too. As a filling and tasty slice of sub-continental joy, it hit the spot, nicely.
The Mela is on until Sunday, so I’d heartily recommend you pay it a visit. I’m confident you won’t go too far wrong sampling from any of the stalls. Certainly Shangreela served us very well, so if you’re overwhelmed with choice on your visit, feel free to follow in our footsteps.
Scores
Blythe scores Shangreela
4/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3/5 for service
3.5/5 for setting
giving an overall 13.5/20
Today’s questers were: Anne, Blythe
We ate: chick peas and rice, lamb kerahi and naan
We drank: nowt
We wore: symphonic denim
Total bill: £12
Edinburgh Mela
Leith Links