The Gilded Saloon Edinburgh review: pre-chuckle plates above The Gilded Balloon

Next to Paradise Palms overlooking Bristo Square

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 famous comedy venue is celebrating it 40 year anniversary.

As for the Saloon itself? Still finding its footing. Is it a pub? A cocktail bar? A restaurant? Right now, it’s a bit of all three. But its real draw is the location: perched above a comedy venue, tailor-made for a pre-show pint and a bite.  

And honestly, I could see myself doing just that.

We visited for a pre-theatre girly lunch, which may not have been the best fit for the format—small plates, big flavours, but not quite a cohesive meal.

I started with the Oyster topped with blueberry and Scotch bonnet. A bold idea, but it didn’t land—the heat and fruit overwhelmed the oyster entirely. The Heritage Beets from Phantassie were much more successful: beautifully earthy, with fresh dill and a swipe of labneh. The sourdough with Whipped Chicken Liver Pâté and a tangle of cornichons was spot on—rich, sharp, and perfectly judged.

Across the table, Eleonora went for the Mushroom and Guinness Pie with gravy—comfort food with a wink, and ideal pre-chuckle sustenance. Kerry, meanwhile, demolished a generous slice of Basque Cheesecake with a glossy, bountiful berry compote. I could tell just by looking—it slayed. 

Basque Cheesecake

While a 10% service charge is added to your bill at The Gilded Saloon, drinks must be ordered and collected at the bar. Only food is delivered to your table by staff. This means the venue does not offer full table service—despite the charge—so expectations should be set accordingly. It’s a late-night pub with a kitchen, not a restaurant, and the service model reflects that split.

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Initial feelings about The Gilded Saloon were mixed but the food was good and I think I’ll return. Top marks for using local producers. 

The Gilded Saloon   45–47 Lothian Street Edinburgh EH1 1HB - Overlooking Bristo Square, next to Paradise Palms

Open: Mon-Wed 4pm-1am. Thursday 4pm-3am, Fri & Sat noon-3am, Sun noon-1am

Kitchen hours and event times may vary—check their What's On page for updates