Edinburgh’s Kora introduces new restaurant manager

Edinburgh neighbourhood restaurant and bar, Kora by Tom Kitchin, has announced the appointment of David Messaoud as its new restaurant manager.

The team behind The Kitchin, The Scran and Scallie and The Bonnie Badger said they have sought to establish Kora as a genuine neighbourhood restaurant, local in every sense with a deep-rooted ‘From Nature to Plate’ philosophy.

The menu has been designed by chef Tom Kitchin, chef director Dominic Jack, and Kora head chef James Chapman.

Messaoud will take over management of the restaurant, leading the front of house and bar team at the 65-cover Bruntsfield restaurant and bar.

Messaoud joins the Kora team from sister restaurant, Michelin-starred The Kitchin in Leith.

Messaoud most recently worked with Edinburgh hospitality collection The Bon Vivant Group, between 2018 and 2022. He was previously employed across a number of the group’s city centre venues, including The Devil’s Advocate and The Bon Vivant.

Kora employs a team of 30 across front of house and the kitchen, and since opening in July 2022, has seen staff retention of over 90%. The venue is open seven days a week serving dinner from Monday to Sunday, lunch from Friday to Sunday and brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Commenting on Messaoud’s new role within Kitchin Group, Kitchin said: “David was a valuable member of The Kitchin team, where he really immersed himself in understanding our world and his genuine passion for this industry really shone through.

“David brings a great talent for meeting guests, building relationships with local and loyal diners and delivering the most exceptional level of guest service. His interest and knowledge in great food, wine and whisky, matched with his welcoming and friendly nature have ensured he has quickly become an integral and valued member of the Kora team, allowing us to enter this exciting next chapter for the restaurant.”