Hoot The Redeemer
7 Hanover Street
Edinburgh
What is it: The second venture for Edinburgh bartender Iain McPherson, after the celebrated Panda & Sons (the kitsch barbershop-inspired bar on Queen St), Hoot is equally kitsch and curious, but in an entirely different way. Utilising the skills of Scottish artists and creatives, the team at Hoot have delivered a modern, grown-up version of a Victorian fairground. I don’t want to spoil the surprises, but from the enigmatic fortune teller’s doorway just off Princes Street, you’ll travel into a whole new world. Don’t be surprised if you feel suddenly youthful and enchanted. Look out for the murals, the boozy ice cream machine and the tempting "don’t open" sign on the grandfather clock.
Verdict: It could be hard to follow a place like Panda & Sons, but Iain (Yann as he’s tenderly known) has managed to combine concept, design and top-class customer service to create a space that is fun and friendly without any pretentions. A welcome, weird and wonderful, addition the the Edinburgh bar scene.
Interesting fact: An old claw crane machine dubbed Pinch’n'sip lets folks pick a flavour then take it to the bar to be used in a cocktail. Brilliant idea.
Drinks: It’s refreshing to be offered a break from the current, quite serious cocktail scene. Having been a bartender in the 1990s, I feel right at home with a blue drink in hand. I really enjoyed the Mystic Ball, with Midori, vodka, pineapple, orange and a splash of absinthe for £7.50.
Food: Other than boozy ice cream and boozy slushies, the only solids you’ll find here is the neverending supply of free pretzels.
Kids: Whilst the nippers would love the toys, this is a grown-ups' attraction.
Alfresco: It's a basement bar so no alfresco here, but my guess is when you descend the stairs, you won’t want to leave.
Avoid if: You’re looking for an evening of negronis, fortified wines and home made syrups, tinctures and bitters made from various plants you’ve never heard of.
Perfect for: A night of fun. With pals, with your partner, with your new internet dating flame. There’s enough surprises here to keep everyone amused.
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