Dental hygienist Amber Ojak shares how she set up an Instagram page for food lovers and discusses the incredible opportunities it has given her.
How did you first get on the food scene?
I have always been a massive foodie! I think it comes from my mum as she was a patisserie chef many years ago, so it wouldn’t surprise me if this is why I have a love for food running through my blood. I’ve always spent my free time eating out or traveling around to try new food ventures.
I really do enjoy it and I always said if I didn’t do dental therapy, I would love to be involved in the food world – I didn’t think it was possible to combine the two.
It was over a year ago that I started my food page, @Edible_In_Edinburgh, because I realised I wanted to share the passion I have for food with other people. I never thought it would take off as well as it has actually, its been quite a whirlwind!
What does running a foodie Instagram page involve?
At first it was just me wanting to post photos of food and places I had been to, but now I do a variety of things! I spend a lot of time making reels, which helps get a lot of attention on local businesses as well as my posts.
I get sent products as well, which I review and put on my page as well as promoting events which are happening in Edinburgh. To be honest, the best part is the food community. I’ve met some really great people and some friends for life now who share the same passion I have!
Is it a lot of work on your side?
Yes I feel like I have two jobs now – luckily two that I love. When I finish with patients, I feel like my food job starts and every week its so different.
I’m either at events which are openings, new menu launches, bar openings, at restaurants or creating content. Creating content takes a lot of time and I know this from my dental page.
I spend a few hours on a Sunday focusing on this – I really enjoy it though.
How does it work?
I’m extremely fortunate to get invited by restaurants and companies to try their food or to events. I would never ask for freebies. Especially not in the current climate as I am all for supporting the food industry myself.
They send me direct messages or emails asking me to come along which is really nice of them. It’s a great way to connect with people in Edinburgh too.
Top three restaurant visits so far and why:
- BABA – this one is a big favourite of mine and does meze style dining. I just think the food is amazing and they do the best sweet potato with saffron
- Noto – this is a small gem off the centre of Edinburgh and has been some of the best food I have ever had. They do some of the tastiest crab I have ever had
- Razzo – this is an independent pizzeria and I’m obsessed. I live round the corner and it’s some of the best pizza I have ever had!
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