La Potinière: Quintessential Fine Dining in Gullane
An intimate French fine dining gem in Gullane, blending Scottish ingredients with elegant culinary artistry.
La Potinière is an acclaimed fine dining French restaurant nestled on Main Street in Gullane, East Lothian. Renowned for its elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere, it offers a carefully curated menu blending Scottish produce with international influences. The intimate setting and meticulous service make it a culinary gem cherished by locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to La Potiniere
- Main Street, Gullane, EH31 2AA, GB
- +441620843214
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
- Thursday 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
- Friday 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
- Saturday 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
- Sunday 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance due to the restaurant’s small size and popularity.
- Inform the staff of any dietary requirements to enjoy customized dishes.
- Try the signature dishes like the Thai coconut soup and poached Gressingham duck breast.
- Enjoy the unhurried dining experience with attentive but discreet service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
La Potiniere location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about La Potiniere
A Culinary Landmark in Gullane
La Potinière has established itself as a cornerstone of fine dining in the charming village of Gullane. Situated on Main Street, this intimate restaurant is celebrated for its refined French cuisine infused with local Scottish ingredients and occasional global touches, such as a notable Thai coconut soup. The restaurant’s reputation is built on decades of consistent excellence, with owners Mary Runciman and Keith Marley at the helm, both deeply involved in the kitchen and service.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
The ambiance at La Potinière is understated elegance, evoking a cozy yet sophisticated dining room reminiscent of a beach chalet. The space is small and intimate, fostering a relaxed and unhurried meal experience. Guests often appreciate the attentive but unobtrusive service, which complements the meticulous presentation and harmonious flavors of each course. The menu is deliberately concise to ensure quality and freshness, typically offering a selection of starters, mains, and desserts that highlight seasonal and local produce.Signature Dishes and Culinary Craftsmanship
The menu at La Potinière is a celebration of Scottish ingredients elevated through classical French techniques. Starters like seared scallops with ham hock terrine and cauliflower showcase the kitchen’s skill in balancing textures and flavors. Main courses such as steamed halibut in champagne sauce or poached Gressingham duck breast with duck jus reveal a mastery of cooking that is both precise and inventive. Desserts, including warm chocolate with poached cherries, provide a perfect sweet finale. The kitchen’s attention to detail extends to house-made breads and palate cleansers that enhance the dining journey.Heritage and Recognition
La Potinière’s legacy is enriched by its long-standing presence and the accolades it has garnered over the years. The restaurant has maintained a Michelin star in the past, reflecting its high culinary standards. The owners’ commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by awards such as the CIS Excellence Award for Chef of the Year, won by Keith Marley. This recognition underscores the restaurant’s status as a beacon of quality and innovation in Scottish gastronomy.Community and Location
Located in the picturesque village of Gullane, La Potinière benefits from a tranquil setting that attracts both locals and visitors, including those attending nearby events like the Scottish Open Golf Championship. Despite its small size, the restaurant is a vital part of the local dining scene, offering a refined alternative to more casual fare. Its presence on Main Street adds to the village’s charm, making it a destination for those seeking a memorable culinary experience in East Lothian.Booking and Practical Details
Due to its popularity and limited seating, reservations are highly recommended. The restaurant operates primarily at lunchtime and dinner on select days, with a focus on delivering a relaxed, unhurried meal. The pricing reflects the fine dining nature of the establishment, offering excellent value for the quality and craftsmanship presented. Guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any dietary preferences to ensure a tailored dining experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Martin's Kirk
9.6 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Romanesque ruins of St Martin's Kirk, a cornerstone of Haddington's medieval spiritual heritage and Reformation history.
East Peaston
17.5 km
A tranquil historic hamlet in East Lothian offering scenic countryside charm and a glimpse into Scotland’s agricultural heritage.
Monkton House
19.4 km
Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Newton Tower
20.2 km
Explore Newton Tower, a unique early 17th-century ruined church tower in Dalkeith, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil old gravestones.
Pittenweem Harbour
20.7 km
Experience the enchanting Pittenweem Harbour, a picturesque port full of history, stunning coastal views, and delicious seafood delights.
Dalkeith Country Park
21.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly activities at Dalkeith Country Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Ravenscraig Castle
21.5 km
Explore the majestic Ravenscraig Castle in Kirkcaldy, a stunning historical site blending rich heritage with breathtaking coastal views.
Caithness Place
21.6 km
Experience the vibrant connectivity of Caithness Place, your gateway to the best of Kirkcaldy's attractions and scenic spots.
Leith Links
21.9 km
Explore Leith Links, a historic park in Edinburgh, where nature meets local culture in a serene urban setting, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Robert Burns Statue
21.9 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
22.0 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Vogrie Country Park
22.1 km
Vogrie Country Park: A serene escape into nature with stunning landscapes and outdoor activities in Gorebridge, ideal for families and nature lovers alike.
Custom House Leith
22.1 km
Experience the blend of history and modernity at Custom House Leith, a premier events venue in Edinburgh's vibrant waterfront district.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
22.3 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
22.3 km
Explore Leith’s maritime heritage in this elegant Georgian house filled with rare artifacts, historic artworks, and captivating stories of Scotland’s seafaring past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Cafe
3.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Café, East Lothian’s beloved local food destination.
Dirleton Castle & Gardens
3.5 km
Medieval fortress with the world's longest herbaceous border and four centuries of Scottish history.
Yellowcraig Beach
4.5 km
A scenic family-friendly beach near North Berwick with woodland trails, a pirate playpark, and views of historic Fidra Island lighthouse.
Chesters Hill Fort
5.1 km
Explore one of Scotland's finest Iron Age hillforts, where ancient ramparts meet sweeping East Lothian landscapes.
Gosford House
5.2 km
Explore Gosford House, a grand neo-classical mansion set in 5,000 acres of historic East Lothian grounds, blending architectural splendor with rich Scottish heritage.
Garleton Castle
6.6 km
Explore the evocative 16th-century ruins of Garleton Castle, a historic courtyard fortress nestled near the scenic Garleton Hills in East Lothian.
Hopetoun Monument
6.6 km
Explore the Hopetoun Monument, a stunning historical landmark in Haddington, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich heritage.
North Berwick Golf Club
6.9 km
Historic Scottish links golf with iconic coastal views and the legendary ‘Redan’ hole, welcoming visitors as members for the day.
Westgate - Coastal Gallery, Gifts & Cafe
7.0 km
Discover local art, unique gifts, and cozy café delights at Westgate Coastal Gallery in the heart of North Berwick’s charming coastal town.
North Berwick Law
7.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of North Berwick Law, a must-visit peak in East Lothian for nature lovers and adventurers.
North Berwick
7.4 km
Charming seaside town in East Lothian with stunning beaches, iconic wildlife, historic harbour, and vibrant cultural life just 30 minutes from Edinburgh.
North Berwick Harbour
7.6 km
Historic 12th-century harbour blending maritime heritage, vibrant wildlife, and scenic coastal charm on Scotland’s East Lothian coast.
North Berwick Harbour Trust
7.6 km
Preserving North Berwick Harbour’s heritage and community spirit through dedicated stewardship and vibrant local initiatives.
Lodge Grounds
7.6 km
A beautifully maintained garden oasis in North Berwick, blending historic charm with vibrant wildlife and peaceful green spaces.
Scottish Seabird Centre
7.6 km
Explore Scotland’s marine wildlife through interactive exhibits, live cameras, and scenic boat trips at the award-winning Scottish Seabird Centre.
Essential places to dine
La Potiniere
0.0 km
An intimate French fine dining gem in Gullane, blending Scottish ingredients with elegant culinary artistry.
The Bonnie Badger - Pub, Restaurant with Rooms
0.0 km
A stylish coastal retreat blending historic charm, Scottish design, and Michelin-quality dining in the heart of Gullane.
The Old Clubhouse
0.1 km
A cozy golf-side pub in Gullane offering classic Scottish fare with stunning course views and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Main Course
0.3 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in a warm, family-run restaurant steps from Gullane Golf Club’s iconic course.
The Castle Inn
3.3 km
Charming historic inn in Dirleton offering cozy rooms, excellent homecooked Scottish fare, and warm hospitality near Dirleton Castle.
The Puffin
7.3 km
Cozy bistro and wine bar in North Berwick blending Scottish seafood and French flavors in a charming coastal setting.
The Grange Restaurant & Steakhouse
7.4 km
A beloved steakhouse on North Berwick’s High Street, serving quality British cuisine in a warm, relaxed atmosphere with attentive service.
Cucina Amore
7.5 km
Experience authentic Italian warmth and fresh coastal flavours in the heart of North Berwick at Cucina Amore.
Zitto Italian Winebar & Trattoria
7.6 km
Authentic Italian tapas, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated wine selection in the heart of North Berwick’s vibrant dining scene.
The Lobster Shack
7.6 km
Rustic seafood shack on North Berwick Harbour serving fresh lobster, crab, and fish with stunning sea views in a casual, seasonal setting.
The Rocketeer Restaurant
7.6 km
Fresh seafood and stunning coastal views combine at The Rocketeer, North Berwick’s beloved seaside restaurant.
The Longniddry Inn
7.8 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Longniddry serving hearty local dishes and handcrafted pizzas in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Victoria Inn / La Terraza
9.4 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Haddington, with welcoming rooms, a lively bar, and a diverse restaurant menu.
Eastern Eye
9.5 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm service in the historic town of Haddington.
The grain
9.5 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and warm hospitality in the heart of historic Haddington’s High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old Smiddy gift shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts, handmade treasures, and charming souvenirs at Old Smiddy Gift Shop in the heart of Gullane.
Secret Boutique
0.2 km
Discover timeless European ladieswear and personalized service in the welcoming charm of Gullane’s Secret Boutique.
BlackHouse
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship with unique Harris Tweed bags, ceramics, and jewellery at BlackHouse in charming Gullane.
Madame Butterfly
7.3 km
Explore Madame Butterfly in North Berwick for unique gifts and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Whynot?
7.3 km
Explore Whynot? in North Berwick, where exquisite delicatessen treats meet a vibrant arts and crafts atmosphere.
NØRDEN
7.3 km
Discover Nordic-inspired homewares and lifestyle treasures in North Berwick’s family-owned concept store, NØRDEN.
SO & CO Accessories
7.4 km
Discover stylish, contemporary accessories and unique gifts in a charming boutique on North Berwick’s High Street.
Rock & Bird
7.4 km
Discover unique art supplies, creative gifts, and local craftsmanship in the heart of North Berwick at Rock & Bird.
Great Escape
7.4 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment shop in North Berwick, offering expert advice and quality gear for every adventure.
Time & Tide
7.4 km
Discover sophisticated homewares and unique gifts in a charming coastal boutique at Time & Tide, North Berwick’s stylish destination for interior inspiration.
Longniddry Village Shop
7.5 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Longniddry, offering fresh bakery items, local products, and essentials with early opening hours every day.
Haddington Retail Park
9.0 km
Modern retail hub in East Lothian offering diverse stores, dining, and sustainable amenities with ample parking and extended hours.
The Original Factory Shop (Haddington)
9.4 km
Affordable quality and variety await at The Original Factory Shop in Haddington, your local destination for unbeatable bargains.
Rosehall Stores
9.4 km
Experience local charm at Rosehall Stores, a cozy supermarket in Haddington offering fresh produce and unique Scottish delicacies.
Gibsons Of Haddington
9.4 km
Discover expert watch repairs and unique gifts in the heart of historic Haddington’s Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Auld Hoose
7.5 km
A lively North Berwick pub famed for craft drinks, massive portions, and a welcoming rock ’n’ roll vibe in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
The Ship Inn
7.5 km
A warm, traditional Scottish pub in North Berwick offering hearty fare, lively sports, and friendly vibes by the sea.
The Plough Tavern
9.4 km
A welcoming Scottish pub and hotel in Haddington offering hearty traditional fare, local ales, and cozy accommodation in a historic setting.
The New Pheasant
9.4 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and hearty local fare at The New Pheasant, a cozy pub nestled in the heart of historic Haddington.
Mercat
9.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively local charm at Mercat Pub, the heart of Haddington’s social scene.
Thorntree Inn
10.7 km
Coastal charm and warm hospitality meet at Thorntree Inn, Cockenzie’s welcoming local pub with stunning sea views and a relaxed vibe.
Whispers Lounge Bar
12.6 km
A cozy, family-run pub offering hearty meals and local drinks in the heart of Tranent’s historic High Street.
The New Prestoungrange Gothenburg
13.1 km
Historic coastal pub in Prestonpans blending heritage, craft beers, and scenic sea views for a memorable social experience.
Levenhall Arms
15.7 km
A cozy Musselburgh pub famed for quality real ales, hearty Indian-inspired pub food, and warm local hospitality.
The David MacBeth Moir - JD Wetherspoon
17.4 km
A welcoming JD Wetherspoon pub in Musselburgh offering hearty meals, local ales, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
The Bear & Bull
19.9 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
Man I' The Rock
20.7 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Dysart offering genuine Scottish hospitality and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Ship Inn
21.6 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Bogarts
21.7 km
A lively and affordable pub in Kirkcaldy’s heart, offering classic drinks and a welcoming atmosphere every day until midnight.
Fife Arms Pub
21.7 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Kirkcaldy offering hearty fare, local drinks, and a lively community atmosphere in a welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Truth
20.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.
Republic Bar Club
22.0 km
Experience Kirkcaldy’s vibrant nightlife at Republic Bar Club, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and lively weekends come together.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
24.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
24.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
24.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
24.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
24.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
24.4 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Why Not Nightclub
24.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
24.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
The Bongo Club
24.5 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Frankenstein
24.5 km
Electrifying Gothic pub where Frankenstein's monster awakens hourly amid pizzas, chilling cocktails, and Old Town vibes—Edinburgh's spookiest nightlife haunt.
Garibaldi's
24.5 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
24.5 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
The Liquid Room
24.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly