Historic central Edinburgh pub to reopen after £280,000 makeover

A much-loved Category A listed Edinburgh pub reopens this week following a major

refurbishment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs, which is headquartered in the city.

The investment has turned Joseph Pearce on Elm Row into a top-class neighbourhood pub

with a stunning new décor.

The landmark pub formally opens its doors at 12pm 24 July following nearly seven

weeks closure for the extensive works. Edinburgh born-and-bred Paul Henderson – a local

resident and former regular – is moving from a career in social care to take the reins as the

new operator running Joseph Pearce on behalf of Star Pubs.

The revamp has completely renovated the pub’s iconic exterior and transformed the interior

with a stylish design that incorporates original features alongside bold colours, contemporary

touches and all-new furniture and finishes. Other improvements include a new kitchen and a

lounge dining area that is available for private functions and parties.

In line with Joseph Pearce’s new direction, it’s all change on the drinks and food front.

The drinks selection covers all the bases from cocktails and coffee to premium lagers, spirits and

wines, and the accompanying food menu caters for a wide range of tastes and occasions,

too. Customers can look forward to lighter options like gyros, small plates and toasted

focaccia with gourmet toppings, as well as heartier dishes spanning curries, noodles and

traditional pub favourites like fish &chips and sausages & mash. Says Paul:

“Joseph Pearce clearly holds a very special place in many people’s hearts. I’ve been blown away by the level of interest in the changes and all the enthusiasm for the refurbishment. Passersby have been photographing the outside and been desperate for a peek inside. Lots of people have told me stories of their connections with the pub and happy memories of good times spent there. “The new look is beyond anything I’d imagined; it’s quite simply beautiful. It gives Joseph Pearce a fresh start whilst staying true to its character. I can’t wait to throw open the doors and welcome everyone in.”

Adds Matt Dyson, Star Pubs’ operations director for Scotland:

“We’re investing more than £3.08m in upgrading our pubs in Scotland this year, and we’re delighted that Joseph Pearce is one of them. We’ve given it the works and tried to do justice to its handsome architecture. We want it to serve the local community as a neighbourhood hub. By popular demand its weekly quiz will be back on straightaway, and there’s a whole new schedule of social events planned for the autumn.”

Joseph Pearce’s opening hours will be 12pm to 12pm Sunday to Thursday and 12pm to 1am

on Fridays and Saturdays.

23 Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AA