][1]As usual in Edinburgh during the run-up to the festivals, there has been a flurry of new bar and restaurant openings.
In the last week, The Inn on the Mile; Port of Siam in the New Town and the Cross and Corner on Canonmills have all opened their doors.
Located in the former Bank Bar premises, The Inn on the Mile sits on the corner of the Bridges and the Royal Mile – perfectly poised to cater to the hundreds of thousands of visitors that pass the site at peak holiday times.
New bar on Royal Mile
During extensive renovations, the old mezzanine area has been removed which means the new bar feels very airy and spacious. Exposed brick and steel beams, booth seating and a mile high gantry are the most eye-catching features.
The kitchen has swerved fancy in favour of hearty, filling, traditional choices. Steak pie, mac ‘n’ cheese, Royal Mile chicken and burgers all feature prominently.
The drinks list is clever. It features tasting flights of wine, whisky and beer so that guests can try several different drinks without waking up the next morning and wondering which country they are in.
Bangkok Bar on Broughton Street
On Broughton Street, the Port of Siam has expanded from its original Newhaven location and opened a second branch plus bar in the former Hamburger Heaven and Blue Moon premises.
Contemporary Thai food with a distinct emphasis on seafood is the main thrust of the restaurant while the dinky Bangkok Bar serves Thai-style cocktails and a range of street food.
Pad Thai, sticky pork skewers and madtarbark – Thailand’s answer to the bridie – are typical of the bar menu.
][5]A little further down the road, Maclachlan’s Ale House has been reincarnated as the Cross and the Corner. If the old business was very trad then the new is very trendy.
Stripped back walls; copper pipe fittings and an intriguing selection of gins are among the attractions.
Classic pub grub is the name of the game here.