Monteiths

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 57-61 High Street, (off Royal Mile), Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH1 1SR, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 131 557 0330
Email: info@monteithsrestaurant.co.uk
Website: view Monteiths’ website
Door: Open door
Style: Lounge bar
Food: Bar Snacks

Review

Your average See-'U'-Jimmy tartan hat owning Joe Blow is simply not a man of sophistication, therefore rendering tourist areas such as the Royal Mile a discerning drinker's no go. Well, make an exception for Monteiths.

The quaint fairy-lit entrance to Montheiths would suit a Santa's Grotto but walk down the narrow passage, through the door on the right and down the stairs, and you'll find yourself in a space spread across three distinct rooms: one with the bar itself, another with banquette seating and the furthest distinctly gentleman's club in feel with an open fireplace, bookshelves and leather armchairs.

Monteiths has a good beer and wine menu but please go straight to the cocktails where you will find both classics and house specials -- the East India with butter infused cognac is ridiculously good and the Pompelmo Negroni zesty and refreshing.

The "Grazing" menu includes Haggis Bon Bons with Bloody Mary jam (you know you have to try these), Smoked Bacon Rashes with Butterscotch, and Duck fat Chips with Charcoal mayo.

The only down side? You may find yourself drinking with Joe Blow.