Stuart Ralston says 40-cover Noto will be a more casual venture, with a menu inspired by his time spent living in New York while working at Gordon Ramsay’s The London restaurant. The site is named after Ralston's late friend and 'man about town' Bob Noto.
While Aizle has a set six-course tasting menu, Noto will offer all-day a la carte dining with daily specials and brunch options. A separate 10-cover bar area will allow guests to enjoy pre and post-dinner drinks.
Ralston notably shifted Aizle to a four-day working week in 2018 after struggling with long working hours. He will offer staff the same benefit at Noto, which will open late morning from Wednesday to Sunday.
Speaking to BigHospitality earlier this year the chef said he felt there was a “big need” in Edinburgh for “more casual restaurants of quality”.
“My staff at Aizle are all creative people, so it’s a waste of talent if we can’t grow that in to a new branch,” he said.
Aizle opened in 2014 and is recommended in the Michelin Guide, though it does not have a star or Bib Gourmand.