First up, say Hello to The Cartvale which has reopened in
Busby.
After an extensive refurbishment, the Main Road bar is back up and running with a new motto: The Cartvale isn't just a great pint, it's a way of life.
From live music to lots of sporting action and a gorgeous beer garden, it certainly offers lots of life-improving features.
At the time of writing, the menus are being finessed but pub grub classics and light lunches with plenty of vegan and veggie options are on the cards.
And they are dog friendly.
Hare of the Dog
Hare of the Dog's name refers to the old dog racing track at nearby Powderhall. Pic: Facebook.
We also note that Hare of the Dog is pulling the pints on Edinburgh's Broughton Road.
Previously The Dundedin and Powderhall Arms, the venue has benefited from some much needed TLC.
Back in the bad old days, your correspondent would sometimes spend an evening playing poker there.
Among the memories that stick in my mind were meeting a gentleman who, judging by his motorcycle club patches, rejoiced in the handle of Bogbrush.
We never did find out what unfortunate sequence of events had led to that becoming his name.
We also recall that the gents were a place where air fresheners went to die.
Anyway, enough rose-tinted nostalgia.
The place appears to have had a thorough renovation and, dare we say it, is now looking rather hip.
BrewDog and Pilot beers are available on tap. Dogs are welcome.
Hey Palu
We are also keeping our eyes peeled for Hey Palu.
Coming together in the former Fat Pony space on Bread Street, it promises to be a modern Italian place offering aperitivo, cocktails and wines.
Getting piggy wit it
Last but not least, Piggs is a new Spanish tapas bar and restaurant on Edinburgh's Canongate. Main pic above is from Piggs' Facebook.
From a Spanish-style full cooked breakfast to Iberico ham via cheese, charcuterie and seafood platters, they can tackle the munchies with a cheery olé!
Piggs is run by Daniel Campos and his Dad Iggy. Edinburghers with a long memory may recall that Campos Snr ran Igg's around the corner for many a year.
As always, the 5pm Food blog hopes that all these newbies thrive happily for a long time.