Over the next couple of days, we’ll round-up some of the new restaurant and bar openings which are on the near horizon in the capital.
Until then, here’s news of an old Edinburgh favourite which has been given a rebrand.
Carters on Morrison Street has become Carters Tap. Previously, the place was a quirky boozer which paid homage to the cult 1970s Brit crime film, Get Carter.
This 5pm Dining blogger rather liked the Michael Caine theme but we can understand how that might be a niche market on which to build a business.
Scottish beers and spirits
In its present guise, Carters Tap is less cockney Michael Caine and more Scottish beers and spirits.
Six wall taps have been added to the existing bar-top real ale pumps. Among others, beers from Stewart Brewing, Barney’s and Pilot are currently pouring.
We don’t have many details about the food offer but suspect that pies and smoked snacks may be involved.
The retro styled interior has been replaced by real leather banquettes, tweed and leather-backed bar stools and wood and tiled flooring.
A handsome, double height gantry dominates the bar and striking industrial lighting includes a showpiece chandelier
Rare brass water tap
Only two original items remain: the brass water tap on the bar and a signed photo of the ruthless anti-hero played by Michael Caine – a token homage to the bar’s past.
Apparently, there are only three brass water taps left in Edinburgh. It’s not something the blog can claim to be an authority on although it seems rather a low figure?
Perhaps there are only three working brass water taps left in the capital’s bars? Anyone know?
Speaking of the changes, publican, Niall Middleton, said: ‘Britt Ekland and Michael Hodges (who worked on Get Carter) both visited the bar when they were up for the Film Festival one year so I couldn’t bring myself to strip it completely of its old identity.
‘But it’s fair to say that Carters had served its time and was in need of a refresh. A style bar it’s not; what I want for Carters Tap, just like we’ve established at our other bars (Thistle Street Bar and The Ship Inn) is for it to become a go-to place for good drink and good banter, where locals and visitors can enjoy a drink and be themselves. An honest, unpretentious bar that will be there for the long term.’
If Carters Tap sounds like your kind of caper then you might want to like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @CartersTap
They are having a launch party tonight and might just have a couple of tickets to give away.