On 22nd January 2025, Edinburgh’s iconic Glasshouse Hotel, a beacon of modern elegance nestled amidst the city’s historic charm, hosted a special Burns Night celebration, courtesy of YTL Hotels and supported by MMGY GRIFCO PR. The event wasn’t just about haggis and whisky (though there were plenty of both) but a sophisticated opportunity for YTL Hotels to showcase its news for 2025 and connect with local Scottish media.
Stepping into The Glasshouse on a crisp January evening, the air buzzed with elegance and Scottish spirit. A traditional bagpipe welcome greeted guests as they entered The Glasshouse, its stunning lobby, a striking space within the facade of the 172-year-old Lady Glenorchy Church.
After being led towards the warm glow of the award-winning whisky snug, the conversation and the drinks were soon flowing and the canapés circulating. The room buzzed with a warm, friendly atmosphere as guests mingled, glasses chiming, before we took our seats for an evening promising both delicious food and engaging conversation.
The five-course Burns Night supper was a feast for the senses. The banquet began with an incredible performance from a traditional piper, accompanied by Scottish dancers and the guests watched in awe as the performers delicately leapt and danced, celebrating the rich heritage of the Scottish highlands. The haggis was then addressed, by Ken Hanley, the eclectic and charismatic Master of Ceremonies who paid a true Scottish tribute to Robert Burns. From smoked salmon with goat’s cheese to scallop mousse with lobster sauce; traditional haggis, neeps and tatties with whisky sauce, to perfectly crafted beef fillet tournedos rossini, the hotel’s chef did not disappoint. The dessert truly rose to the occasion as guests were presented with beautiful almond cranachan soufflés, accompanied by raspberry sorbet and whisky anglaise.
Of course, no Burns Night would be complete without a generous flow of whisky, and The Glasshouse certainly didn’t disappoint. Expertly guided by MC Ken and Antonia Bruce, a representative from Adelphi Whisky, guests embarked on a sensory journey through five exceptional whiskies, including YTL’s own whisky. Dram-by-dram, they delved into each pairing’s unique history, sharing fascinating anecdotes about the distilleries, the casks used, and the distilling process. Guests were encouraged to swirl, sniff, and savour, identifying the subtle nuances of each whisky and learning about why they were paired with each course. To further enrich the evening, between courses, guests were treated to presentations from YTL Hotels representatives, who offered a fascinating overview of their diverse properties and the distinctive experiences they provide.
As the evening drew to a close, the room was filled with excitement for all things to come in from YTL Hotels in 2025. As a final flourish to a truly special evening, the journalists in attendance were treated to generous gift bags, brimming with delightful surprises and mementoes of the event, including various gifts from each of YTL’s UK properties, YTL’s bespoke tartan and a bottle of YTL Whisky, ensuring the experience lingered long after the last dram was finished. The night’s blend of cultural immersion, culinary excellence, and engaging conversation made for a truly memorable and impactful event, which YTL Hotels and MMGY GRFICO look forward to becoming a tradition for years to come.
