Tollcross and Lothian Road

Grab a bite or drink in this neck of the woods, which is also where you’ll find The Traverse, Lyceum, Usher Hall, Filmhouse and the new site of the Edinburgh Book Festival at Edinburgh College of Art

Words: Peter Simpson

Blue Blazer

The Blue Blazer is a ‘proper’ Edinburgh pub, in the best possible sense. Boasting one of the city’s finest selections of real ales, whiskies and rums, the Blue Blazer’s walls have seen it all.

2 Spittal St, @blue_blazer_edinburgh

Bread Meats Bread

Incredible burgers, outrageous sides – try the poutine – and a great location; Bread Meats Bread is ideal Fringe fuel, and their vegan menu has come on leaps and bounds recently.

92 Lothian Rd, @BreadMeats_EDI

Cloisters

Set into the side of a church, Cloisters’ huge beer selection and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for a pre- or post-show pint.

26 Brougham St

@CloistersEdinburgh

The Hanging Bat

A huge and ever-changing range of some of the best beers from all over the world, a mini-brewery at the back and super knowledgeable bar staff make this a must-visit.

133 Lothian Rd, @TheHangingBat

Lovecrumbs

An inventive sweet and savoury menu, tables made from old pianos, and a literal window seat give Lovecrumbs an anarchic air that turns the act of going for coffee into an adventure.

155 West Port, @hellolovecrumbs

The Source Coffee Co

This small but well-formed coffee shop is essential for serious coffee heads. Get a funky, boozy, fruit-packed espresso made with beans from their very own roastery.

4 Spittal St, @the_source_coffee_roasters

Taza in Town

This no-frills Syrian and Levantine restaurant has something for everyone. The mezze is fantastic, the ma’anesh are excellent, the shawarma is lovely.

69 Bread St, @tazaintown

The Ventoux

Inspired by the Tour de France mountain of the same name, this is a great local hangout with fish tanks on the shelves, bikes on the ceiling, and an impressive host of German beers behind the bar.

2 Brougham St