Stuart Ralston announces closure of Aizle

Chef Stuart Ralston has announced the upcoming closure of Aizle, his blind tasting menu restaurant in Edinburgh, after over a decade in action.

Ralston launched Aizle – his debut venue – on St Leonard's Street in 2014, before relocating to its current home, the Garden Room at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. The chef still operates the recently Michelin-starred Lyla, the NYC izakaya-inspired Noto and the pasta-focused Tipo. 

Aizle's menu revolves around produce from the Scottish larder. Guests are presented with a delicate washi paper menu detailing a list of ingredients from the current harvest, the building blocks of either a five- or seven-course menu. Last doors will be on 21 September.

'We achieved what we set out to do'

Ralston says of his decision: "When I first opened the doors on St Leonard's Street in 2014 as a young chef, Aizle was born out of a desire to build something different, challenge me as a young chef and provide a place people would choose to work. I wanted to work with producers who really care about what they grow and make people happy with food.

"Over the past 11 years, we have moved homes, met brilliant people along the way and grown into something to be proud of. We achieved what we set out to do.

"The decision hasn't come easily, but the time feels right to close Aizle and for me to put even more focus on Lyla, Noto and Tipo, as well as our next project. 

"I want to give a huge thank you to the incredible, dedicated team, past and present, the wonderful farmers, fishermen, winemakers and all the people in between. I look forward to continuing to work with you."

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