Edinburgh venues round-up: August 2022

Just in time for the festivals, we profile the hottest new venues springing up in Scotland's capital

Feature by Izzy Gray | 01 Sep 2022
  • Disposition Coffee

Disposition Coffee

Fancy a floral fix alongside your coffee? In need of time away from the swell of the city centre? Saunter westwards down the Water of Leith to leafy Roseburn, where you can finish your stroll with a well-earned brew. Disposition Coffee have teamed up with the new Hordeum Botanical Studio to create a haven of Hygge-inspired calm. The Scandi decor and earthy tones set the vibe just right for their flower-shop-come-coffee-place hybrid. The store comes nicely decked out with preserved flowers, curious plants and gorgeous pots that you just know belong on your kitchen shelf. Better still: the coffee’s a triumph and dog’s are not only welcome but actively encouraged. 29 Roseburn Ter, EH12 5NQ

A wine glass filled with red liquid and ice cubes, garnished with a wedge of orange. The glass sits on a marble countertop.
Image: Courtesy of Bittersweet.

Bittersweet

You know that hankering that often kicks in, early evening? You’re not quite in the zone for a big feed yet, but the snack bowl keeps a’calling? And see how those snacks taste so much better washed down with a drink? The Italians have a word for that: aperitivo. This is the tradition the crew behind Bittersweet want us Scots to get acquainted with. Bittersweet is a cocktail bar with more than just a twist of lime. Centred around the concept of aperitivo, the newest addition to Leith’s nightlife is receiving a rightful share of praise for its menu, which wouldn’t look out of place on the marbled streets of Milan. Homemade gnocchi, arancini and delicious strips of montanara pizza prove to be perfect complements to their tempting tipples. Our choice? The house spritz, made on-site in their own distillery. 24 Henderson St, EH6 6BS

Shelves filled with whisky, surrounded by bright lights.
Image: Courtesy of Tipsy Midgie

Tipsy Midgie

It’s a little known fact that The Pleasance is officially the only corner of Scotland where the word midgie is looked upon with favour. It might have a little something to do with this place. Like its namesake, the Tipsy Midgie may be wee in stature (30 seats proud) but it’s gathering big love in the Old Town for its impressive collection of rare whiskies and gins. Particular perks include its ‘Can and a Dram’ set-up (a new take on the Scottish ‘hauf and hauf’), its hybrid Hyballs and its promising of regular tasting events which, rather conveniently, include chocolate pairing Tuesdays. Sign. Us. Up. 67 St Leonards Hill, EH8 9SB