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Reviewing in Edinburgh & beyond since 2003
Trusted, local, independent and telling stories that
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Sip, snack, and socialise—Edinburgh’s bar scene is buzzing with flavour and flair. From neon-lit cocktail dens to cosy whisky lounges, our Bars & Bar Food section uncovers the city’s most spirited spots. Whether you're chasing late-night bites, artisan tipples, or a pint with personality, Bite Magazine serves up the best of Edinburgh’s drinking and dining culture. Expect stylish plates, bold flavours, and venues that turn every visit into a story worth sharing. Cheers to good times and great taste.
The Bonnington – your cosy local neighbourhood pub
On a crisp November evening, The Bonnington glows on its corner spot on the eponymous road, inviting locals in with the promise of comfort food, beer, wine and cocktails. Run since 2024 by Carlo Carozzi —also the force behind the award‑winning street food venture The Peruvian —this neighbourhood pub has quickly become a welcoming hub. The no. 11 bus stops right at the door. Once inside, the pub manages to be both spacious and cosy at the same time. In the main bar there are
Sharon Wilson
Dec 12 min read
The Gilded Saloon Edinburgh review: pre-chuckle plates above The Gilded Balloon
Next to Paradise Palms overlooking Bristo Square We dropped into The Gilded Saloon—a new-ish venture just a couple of months into its stride. It’s the brainchild of three creative forces, with Tomas Gormley (Cardinal and Skua ) also bringing finesse to the kitchen. One co-owner also runs Paradise Palms next door—a dive bar in the best possible sense. Kelburn Parties made their name with the West Coast festival, and The Gilded Balloon downstairs needs no introduction. The f
Sharon Wilson
Nov 92 min read
POV: The perfect Edinburgh pub doesn’t exist
Beer garden The Cumberland Bar, a traditional, wood-panelled Victorian pub, is well-established as a favourite with both Edinburgh locals...
Diana Turner
Aug 142 min read
The Captain Darling
The Captain Darling ’s signage taken from Hamilton Place Since moving to Edinburgh almost nine years ago, I’ve been for scant few Sunday...
Kirsty Wilkins
Aug 102 min read
Dublin Street Social: Stylish Plates and Social Sips in Edinburgh’s Georgian New Town
Picante chorizo and manchego croquettes The name says it all— Dublin Street Social is a convivial, smart yet casual bar bistro nestled in Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian New Town. This welcoming eatery serves small plates , drinks, Sunday brunch, and lunch in a stylish yet relaxed space. Inside, sea-green banquettes accent sleek wood finishes, and there are elegant black-and-chrome bar stools and tiny table lamps. The decor is light and modern, punctuated by vibrant prints—inc
Sharon Wilson
Aug 82 min read
Badger & Co - a feast fit for Toad Hall: new chapter for literary themed Edinburgh restaurant
Cranachan Teacake Badger & Co has started a new dining chapter at its famous Castle Street venue that celebrates the best local and...
Diana Turner
Jul 242 min read
Duck & Waffle - late nights, great bites
Late night dining You know a meal is exceptional when conversation fades into silent nods of delight.That is our Duck & Waffle...
Bronwyn Eley
Jun 272 min read
Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Whisky bottles on display For the drenched hillwalker. Pie eyed. Flamenco dancer’s coffee break. All three have something in common – any...
Kirsty Wilkins
Jun 262 min read
Aperitivo reimagined: MATTO brings Neapolitan ritual to Edinburgh’s Southside
Monday - Friday 4 pm-7 pm In the heart of Edinburgh’s Newington district, a golden-hued pizza oven glows like a hearth at the centre of MATTO’s newest and most ambitious location. Known for its uncompromising approach to Neapolitan pizza, MATTO now invites diners to experience another cornerstone of Italian culinary culture: the aperitivo. Aperitivo Hour at MATTO is not merely a happy hour—it’s a cultural interlude. Running Monday to Friday, from 4 pm to 7 pm, this offering d
Sharon Wilson
May 152 min read
Copper Blossom - high on the hog with the new Sunday roast offering
Copper Blossom is a riot of colour, cocktail trees, prosecco, and flowers. It is a feminine assault on the senses and the antithesis of the pared-back, trendy Scandic look that characterizes many contemporary venues. It is the Signature Pub Group equivalent to Montpelier Group’s Tigerlily just along George Street so slap bang in the town centre. Mr Bite and I visited for Sunday Roast - a hearty affair which we thought may clash with the general vibe of Copper Blossom but we
Sharon Wilson
Dec 3, 20242 min read
The Magnum - Gluttony Absolute
Derek & Isaac For around twenty years, the Magnum has dazzled as a neighbourhood pub and top-notch bistro. The Social Bitches, meanwhile, are here on our very first visit, feeling ravenous and dangerously close to sober. Fortunately, it’s champagne on arrival, soon followed - spoiler alert - by an orgy of sumptuous food, wine and absolute gluttony. Now on our cheeky third glass, we’re loving the fabulous service and vibe, as we attack the bites menu. Gorgeous Deep Fried Came
The Social Bitches
Mar 13, 20242 min read
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