REVIEW WRITTEN NOVEMBER 2009

 IN THE SHADOW OF ST STEPHEN'S CHURCH (WHICH BOASTS THE LONGEST PENDULUM IN EUROPE) LIES ST VINCENT STREET, WITH THE ST VINCENT BAR ON THE CORNER ON THE CUSP BETWEEN EDINBURGH'S GEORGIAN NEW TOWN AND THE BOHEMIAN VILLAGE-IN-A-CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE.

The pub (known colloquially as The Vinnie) has been a stalwart of the area for many years, having undergone quite a few changes but the present incarnation seems to be settling in well. It is a low-ceilinged, traditional cellar bar, the lighting is subdued and it is not too noisy (with the exception of certain regulars!). They have a regular choice of at least four real ales, always changing. When I visited, the four they had were Red McGregor (4.0%, £3.00), Northern Light (4.0%, £3.00), Deuchars IPA (3.8%, £2.90) and Adnams Gunhill (4.0%, £3.10). They have introduced an interesting concept – try any three drinks in third-pint glasses, served on a wooden platter, for £3.00. So, I tried Red McGregor, Northern Light and Adnams Gunhill.

The Red McGregor had an interesting aroma, almost with a hint of coffee. It is nice chewy ale, and if this were a steak it would be medium-rare.

Adnams Gunhill is a darker, more potent-looking drink, heady and long-lasting, and if this were a steak it would be well-done.

Finally, Northern Light: delicately pale, light by name and light by nature, and if this were a steak it would be medium-rare.

The bar staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their ales, and are happy to share their knowledge. It has a loyal clientele of regulars, who are friendly, and a collection of local photographs around the walls, courtesy of the Edinburgh Photographic Society.

The pool table has been re-introduced, but due to the dimensions of the rear bar it had to be fitted in diagonally, which, with the drinks ledge running round the walls at a height of four feet, makes for some interesting shots best played by a practised contortionist. Oh, and please do not bang the cues on the ground as this upsets the neighbours upstairs. Another way to upset them is . . .