Natasha Corfield stops by Kome in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh’s drinking scene has a sleek new addition tucked away in Tollcross – Kome, a modern izakaya. The promise? “A small corner of Japan in Edinburgh with good sake, honest snacks and proper cocktails.”
Step inside and you’ll find a warm, intimate space, with a back bar boasting an impressive selection of spirits that nudges you towards the unfamiliar.
Japanese twists on classics dominate the menu, and sake lovers are spoiled for choice with the Sake 101 flight offering a valuable introduction for newcomers at just £12.
My evening began with the Sakura Gimlet, which blew me away – the most perfectly balanced I’ve had and the cherry blossom cordial was a floral triumph.
I am not typically drawn to Espresso Martinis, yet the Black Sesame Espresso Martini was velvety smooth with a toasted, nutty finish – sure to be a crowd favourite.
Unfortunately, the Smoked Miso Old Fashioned was underwhelming, lacking the punchy, savoury finale I had hoped for.
Kome strikes a balance between being both accessible and adventurous, inviting a wide crowd with a bold and thoughtful approach to flavour. In a city full of standout bars, Kome looks set to carve out a distinctive niche.
SCORE 7/10
» 13a Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JS