Cloud And Soil
4 Picardy Place
Edinburgh
What is it: I remember this place as Fiddler's Elbow, which, to be honest, was not a leading light in the Edinburgh hospitality industry. The venue, a Georgian townhouse, includes a basement late-night bar called The Compass Room, which is also used for functions. Upstairs is a more formal restaurant, with great views and some self-service bedrooms. The main bar is modern but comfortable. It has kitsch mismatched furniture, retro wallpaper and some cool wine bottle light fittings through-out.
Interesting fact: Cloud And Soil's sister venue Bond No9 in Leith, has recently closed down, which is a real shame as it was a great place. Rumours that it will be moving into this venue have yet to be confirmed.
Verdict: I enjoyed my visit. Staff were friendly and helpful, the atmosphere relaxed and fun environment, and while the offering may not be top-end it ticks all the right boxes. A great place to catch up with friends.
Drink: Good selection of beers, wines and spirits on offer along with a popular cocktail menu. I enjoyed The General Cocktail with Hendricks Gin, elderflower, cucumber and peach bitter topped with some bubbly for £10.50. It's was the most expensive of the cocktails, which start from £7.
Food: The bar has a nice selection of plates, sliders and boards served from 11am to midnight. We went for omnivore fondue: a tasty selection of chorizo, cheese, chicken, potatoes and veg for £16.95. Apparently the burgers are pretty good as well.
Price: About right for this part of town, with a small glass of white wine from £3.15.
Alfresco: Lovely little suntrap out the front, which is only slightly spoiled by busy traffic.
Children: Kids allowed in if dining with adults
Avoid if: You prefer more traditional establishments.
Perfect for: Grabbing a sharing board with friends and enjoying some cocktails.
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