There are places that hold within them a certain magic—places where history, elegance, and a touch of mysticism collide. Stepping into The Witchery by the Castle is like walking into such a world. From the moment I approached the entrance, the ancient cobblestone walkways and the towering stone walls surrounding the restaurant set the stage for what would be an unforgettable evening.

I had managed to secure a reservation, something I didn’t think was possible at such a renowned establishment. As I entered, I was warmly greeted by the attendant who had made it all happen. Their kindness and genuine welcome added a personal touch to the experience. “We’re so delighted to have you with us,” they said, with a smile that made me feel as if I had been invited to a private, royal gathering. From that moment on, I felt like royalty. Every interaction, from the way my coat was taken to the way I was guided to my table, felt seamless, thoughtful, and refined.

The restaurant itself was bathed in a dim, golden glow from flickering candles, casting shadows that danced along the stone walls. The atmosphere was rich, almost intoxicating, with the scent of aged wood and stone, mingled with the aromas wafting from the kitchen. I could hear soft conversations from guests around the world—different languages mixing together like the threads of a global tapestry, all of us united in our anticipation of the feast ahead.

My table was immaculately set, as if for royalty. A crisp, white tablecloth so clean it gleamed in the candlelight, with every utensil and glass perfectly placed, awaiting my presence. The attention to detail was astonishing, with every element of the setting contributing to the overall sense of elegance and history. It was easy to imagine that this kind of service had graced the tables of kings and queens.

As I settled into my seat, the first course arrived: Tarbert Crab Benedict, a masterpiece of delicate flavors. The sweetness of the crab, combined with the richness of the poached St Ewe egg and brown crab hollandaise, created a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The slight char on the grilled gem lettuce added an unexpected, delightful bitterness that balanced the creaminess of the dish. Each bite felt indulgent and luxurious, setting the tone for what was to come.

With the arrival of the main course, Cutlet of Glenfeshie Estate Red Deer, the evening reached a new height. The venison was cooked to perfection, its deep, earthy flavor grounding me in the Scottish Highlands. It was paired with a buttery confit of Hispi cabbage and pomme dauphine—crispy on the outside and cloud-like on the inside. The accompanying cabernet, with its dark notes of blackberry and plum, was the ideal complement, enriching the experience with each sip.

Between bites, I observed the room around me. Every face told a different story—guests from all over the world were soaking in the same atmosphere, captivated by the mystique of the place. The blend of old and new was palpable. Here we were, surrounded by centuries-old stone walls, yet indulging in modern, sophisticated cuisine. The proximity to Edinburgh Castle made everything feel even more monumental. It was as if the weight of Scottish history was watching over the evening.

As the night drew to a close, the dessert was placed before me: Valrhona Satilia Dark Chocolate Torte. Dark and glossy, it gleamed under the soft candlelight, but what truly stood out was the intricate design on top. The iconic “W” of The Witchery was carefully crafted in what appeared to be fine sugar, the design so detailed that it seemed to shimmer against the deep, rich chocolate. The “W,” representing the legacy of The Witchery, was flanked by delicate flourishes and crowned, adding an air of regality to the dessert. The sweetness of the design contrasted beautifully with the bitterness of the chocolate, while the Piedmont hazelnut crèmeux added a layer of luxurious richness. Each bite was a sensory delight, the chocolate melting on my tongue while the hazelnuts brought a satisfying crunch.

As I lingered over the final sips of wine, the evening began to sink in. The sounds of laughter and conversation, the flickering candlelight, the aromas of the meal still hanging in the air—it was as though time had slowed down, allowing me to truly savor each moment. The Witchery isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience steeped in history and refined by modern elegance.

When I finally stepped back outside into the cool Edinburgh night, I left with more than just a full stomach. I carried with me the feeling of having been part of something extraordinary—a moment in time where Scottish history and culinary mastery had collided to create an evening I would never forget.