Tomás Gormley and Sam Yorke, the talented chef patron duo behind Heron, are set to open their second restaurant, Skua, in Stockbridge this Spring. Offering an array of small plates inspired by the seasons, the restaurant will also feature a unique drinks list curated by Heron bar manager Seoiridh Fraser, with cocktails, beers, spirits, natural and rare wines.
Located in the city’s Stockbridge and tucked beneath the cobbles of St Stephen Street, Skua will provide a warm and inviting atmosphere with marble table tops, brass hardware and soft candlelight. Open Thursday – Monday, 5:30pm until 12am, Tomás and Sam will both be in the kitchen, alongside chef de partie Aran Lowry.
“We wanted to create a space perfect for a late-night drink or a bite to eat. Somewhere to go with friends after work or at the weekend. Our food and drinks menus will be short and ever-changing. Showcasing techniques and flavours that interest us from around the world whilst staying true to our passion for local and sustainable produce, such as koji marinated chicken, soy and chilli glazed octopus and cider infused maitake mushrooms all cooked on the konro grill for depth of flavour. We’re going to have things we want to eat on the menu, with our own take on fried chicken and poutine for example. Expect bold flavours, great tunes and generous hospitality.” Says Tom.
“We’re adopting a whole carcass butchery approach for both Heron and Skua, using rare and heritage meat from Macduff Butcher. We want to showcase often overlooked cuts which are just as delicious and help to reduce food waste. Our supplier community has been so supportive already with the likes of Lind & Lime, Newbarns Brewery and Castle Game helping to realise our vision for Skua and we’re looking forward to maintaining these relationships and working with more artisan food and drink producers.” Says Sam.
Heron, opened in 2021 by Sam and Tomás, has already earned a selection of accolades, such as an entry in The Michelin Guide and a shortlisting for ‘Best Breakthrough’ in the GQ Food and Drink Awards 2022. Sam Yorke was even named as one of the UK’s most promising young chefs in the Code 30 under 30 class for 2023/24.
Tomás and Sam will be charting the progress of the restaurant via Instagram skua.scot and further updates including booking line opening will be available via social media and by signing up to their newsletter via the website.
Address: Skua, 49 St Stephen Street, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 5AH
Website: www.skua.scot
