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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Sian Traynor

We tried Edinburgh St James Quarter's latest restaurant Ka Pao and it was to die for

In the last year, Edinburgh's St James Quarter has welcomed an incredible amount of new bars and eateries to the city centre.

However, when we heard one of Glasgow's favourites, Ka Pao, was journeying east, we couldn't wait to try out their new capital menu.

Known for being awarded with a Michelin bib-Gourmand award in the last year, the South-East Asian inspired restaurant opened this week inside the St James Quarter, looking out onto the W hotel.

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Decorated with a bright and modern feel, the restaurant offers a series of small plates, larger mains and then of course a few desserts to polish off the meal.

To kick things off, we tried one of their signature negroni cocktails, as well as a pink grapefruit and chilli soda mocktail, both of which were very refreshing.

Choosing what dishes to have was tough, with everything from fish to beef, vegetarian options and even oysters on the menu.

Opting for a selection of dishes to share, we first went for the three oysters with a spicy sauce, the fried chicken with spicy caramel and the beef skewers.

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Although not to everyone's tastes, the oysters slipped down a treat, with the beef perfectly cooked and the fried chicken absolutely stealing the show with its gorgeous sauce and crispy coating.

Already feeling full, we opted to share a larger plate of the beef massaman curry, along with some jasmine rice and some salt and szechuan pepper mushrooms.

The curry was incredible, with the beef cooked so it melts in your mouth, along with the relatively mild sauce and potatoes mixed in with it, ideal for someone who isn't mad on spice.

Of course, we couldn't leave without at least trying the dessert, and opted for a light finisher with the mango and coconut soft serves mixed together.

Tasting like an up-market Mr Whippy, both flavours were incredible, and a very refreshing way to end the meal.

Despite it having just opened the service was also top-notch, with attentive hosts and quick service for us and the tables surrounding.

So if you're heading to St James Quarter, definitely put this on your list.

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