MAY 2011

I like the Windsor Buffet; bar that proves that appearances can be deceptive. It gives the impression of being a drinking man's pub but, in reality, it's much more than that. It provides old-fashioned hospitality with a modern outlook on good drink.

Take the back bar for example. Given the size of it you might expect it to be dominated by common blended and malt whiskies, cheap vodka and non-descript gin. Instead, there's an eclectic mix of rums, gins, bourbons and other unusual whiskies, plus the odd delight like Fernet Branca or Coole Swan (that's that  nice stuff' according to D). I'd have to agree...

Going into pubs on Leith Walk can be a daunting experience. There's normally a crowd of guys at the bar, the decor is dark and brooding like you've stepped into a Victorian melodrama, and you always expect to hear a voice say "we don't like strangers round 'ere!". In some of them you might even expect a 'glassing' from Begbie.  The Windsor has the guys at the bar and some Victorian decoration but it is very welcoming and does offer a comforting familiarity.

Once in, you’re not overwhelmed by a huge range of real ales, expensive lagers, Alco pops galore or nasty wines on tap. Instead, there's a small selection of good Scottish cask ales, a few lagers and ciders, some bottled beers, and four or five good value wines. I like the fact that the wine is served in a standard size glass and not by the bucket load (boo says D!).  

The real reason I really like the Windsor Buffet can be found in the answer to Cap'n Jack Sparrow's immortal question 'where has all the rum gone?' Well at least some of it has found its way to Leith Walk. Not only that but it would appear that somehow they got all the good stuff. If you want to try for yourself take advantage of the rum deal; a chance to taste great rum without parting with your gold doubloons. When we were there they had an aged La Mauny rhum Agricole on offer at £2.60 a shot.