Edinburgh venues round-up: May 2022

As spring creeps (very slowly) into Edinburgh, we explore some of the city's newest and most exciting venues, from buzzing Greek restaurant Fava to charming Leith cafe Cocorico.

Article by Izzy Gray | 12 May 2022
  • Rokku Rokku

Fava

Haymarket is a hive of activity these days. The centre of the honeypot? The newly-opened Fava. This buzzing Greek kitchen radiates Mediterranean warmth, nicely balanced with boho décor. Colourful mezze plates take centre stage, with tasty tidbits ranging from keftedes (potato croquettes) to dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves) and a spinach and feta tart that’ll have you thinking sunny thoughts into the next week. Vegan offerings are plentiful, but the seafood choices sing out too, with the prawn saganaki, kalamari and mussel-infused pasta all vying for first place. There’s larger offerings too if you ain’t carin’ for the sharin’. Gyros for one? It’s an "OPA!" from us. 248 Morrison Street, EH3 5DT

Rokko Rokko Desu

“There’s no such thing as bad weather,” Billy Connolly once declared, “just the wrong clothing, so get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little.” Aye sure, a decent Mac might counteract Scotland’s blustery ways, but you know what else can help warm the cockles? A hearty bowl of ramen done right, and we know just the place. If you’re in need of thawing out this chilly spring, head on down to Stockbridge where Rokko Rokko Desu’s Japanese noodles will see you through. Their Inferno Ramen packs a fair punch, so you might want to pair it with a soothing cocktail. The informal bartop seating gives this place a laidback charm, which trickles nicely into the menu. Their small-but-perfectly-formed snack dishes are ideal for those needing to grab a bite on the hoof. Venison tataki, steamed pak choi, crispy cauliflower? The floorplan may be wee, but the flavours are big. 112 St Stephens Street, EH3 5AD

Exterior view of Cocorico coffee shop. A corner unit with a blue door, with a painted rooster on one of the walls. An array of blue and red tables and chairs are arranged outside.
Image: Cocorico © Ana Mesle

Cocorico

Leithers in need of a new roost, there’s a cosy new nest waiting on Jane Street. Between colourful painted chooks you’ll find the doorway to Cocorico, a friendly neighbourhood café where the smiles are as warm as the coffee within. From the team behind the successful Water of Leith Café Bistro, this colourful gem offers up rustic Scottish nosh with a French flair. Their croque monsieurs are already proving the Talk of the Walk. There’s really something to suit everyone here, from cake & coffee duos sent from above to a cullen skink that’ll have you penning a shanty in your heid before you know it. 96 Jane Street, EH6 5HG

Pool tables are spaced out under blue and magenta lighting. In the distance there are bar stools and tables, as well as an axe-throwing activity space. The ceiling is decorated in blue glyphs.
Image: Boom Battle Bar, courtesy of venue

Boom Battle Bar

The not-so-distant bells of raucous nights ahead are calling, with news that Boom Battle Bars are set to open their second Scottish venue in the Omni Centre. Inner children can be firmly unleashed, with range of devilish battles to choose from. Beer pong? Classic. Augmented reality darts? Trippy! Bavarian axe throwing? Sign us up. Young ‘uns are welcome until 7pm, when the bar becomes open to over 18s only and the colourful cocktails begin to flow. There’ll be street food on hand too, to help keep the energy levels topped up. Omni Centre, Greenside Place, EH1 3AE