In a statement, Ralston said the time ‘felt right’ to close Aizle, which he originally launched on St Leonard’s Street in 2014 before relocating to its current home at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel in 2020.
Aizle, a Scottish noun that refers to a burning coal, a glowing hot ember, or a spark, serves a blind tasting menu of dishes revolving around produce from the Scottish larder, with diners only provided with a list of ingredients ahead of the meal.
“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,” Ralston said.
“I wanted to work with producers who really care about what they grow and make people happy with our 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.”
Ralston added that the closure would allow him to put more focus on the rest of his Edinburgh-based restaurant estate that includes the Michelin-starred Lyla, which was named the Best Restaurant in Scotland at this month’s National Restaurant Awards; New York izakaya-inspired brand Noto; and pasta-focused concept Tipo.
He added that a ‘next project’ is also currently in development.
“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.”
Aizle’s last service will be on 21 September.