Top Scottish chef sails into ‘Captain’s Table’ dining series onboard Edinburgh’s floating hotel

Posted: 4th August 2026

A top Scottish chef will be hosting the latest in a series of collaborative ‘Captain’s Table’ dining experiences onboard Edinburgh’s luxury floating hotel, Fingal, on Friday 21 August.

For one night only, just ten diners are being offered the chance to step aboard the world-class foodie destination to enjoy a bespoke tasting menu created by Paul Gunning.

Paul Gunning is an award-winning chef and restaurateur based in Edinburgh, best known as the chef patron of Purslane Restaurant in the city’s Stockbridge district. With more than 25 years of experience in professional kitchens, he has built a reputation for creating refined, seasonal Scottish cuisine that showcases the finest local produce and seafood. Since opening Purslane in 2011, Paul has earned widespread recognition for his commitment to quality, flavour, and warm hospitality.

Throughout his career, Paul has worked in leading hotels and acclaimed restaurants, including experience under renowned chefs such as Marco Pierre White. His cooking style is modern, simple, and ingredient-led, focusing on delivering memorable dining experiences through carefully crafted dishes.

In addition to Purslane, Paul is also a co-owner of Dùthchas, a restaurant celebrating Scotland’s natural larder and culinary heritage. His passion for Scottish food, dedication to craftsmanship, and years of industry experience have made him a respected figure in Edinburgh’s dining scene.

As part of Paul’s exclusive dining experience onboard Fingal, guests will be seated in The Bridge, the ship’s former command room turned private dining area, where refined cuisine and the unique nautical surroundings create an evening unlike any other in Edinburgh.

Served around one large communal table, the set menu designed by Paul Gunning will be delivered in partnership with Fingal’s Head Chef, Pedro Barreira.

Expect an evening of world-class gastronomy, intimate atmosphere, and a menu that reflects the finest seasonal Scottish produce, thoughtfully crafted with modern technique, global influences, and a deep respect for local heritage.

Paul Gunning’s ‘Captain’s Table’ set-menu onboard Fingal Hotel is priced at £135 per head on a first come, first served basis. For more information about the pop-up event on Friday 21 August go to www.fingal.co.uk/whats-on/paul-gunning.  For bookings, call 0131 357 5000.

Fingal recently retained two prestigious Rosettes for culinary excellence by the internationally recognised Automobile Association (AA) for the fourth year running. Permanently berthed in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith, the Fingal’s Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar has already earned its reputation as a world class foodie destination since its re-launch as a luxury hotel in 2019. The ship has all the glamour and style of a superyacht, but with an air of old-world Art Deco luxury ocean liner elegance inspired by the ship’s rich maritime heritage.

Open to residents and non-residents, Fingal also offers a choice of private dining booths for small pre-booked groups in its award-winning Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar. Private dining for up to 60 guests is also available in Fingal’s ballroom.

Fingal’s 23 luxury cabins are each named after Stevenson lighthouses, inspired by Fingal’s rich maritime heritage. The former Northern Lighthouse Board tender ship was developed by the award-winning team at The Royal Yacht Britannia, which is located just 10 minutes away. Fingal is now the ultimate in luxury accommodation and dining.

For more information on Fingal Hotel and its award-winning Lighthouse Restaurant, go to www.fingal.co.uk and follow Fingal on social media, including Facebook www.facebook.com/fingaledinburgh and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fingaledinburgh and www.instagram.com/lighthouserestaurantatfingal