The Antiquary, Stockbridge, Edinburgh

Official site of The Antiquary - www.theantiquarybar.co.uk

Official site of The Antiquary - www.theantiquarybar.co.uk

This smart, two room basement bar originally opened as an upmarket restaurant serving the workers and customers of the neighbouring antique shops, before converting to a versatile pub that has variously been famed for its live music, biker credentials and good food. It is the latter aspect that seems to be the pubs biggest focus at present, although that’s not to say that this is a strictly food led pub, as a well designed, two bar layout makes this an inviting spot for the drinker as well. The two bars are of roughly equal size and with similar decor such as dark floorboards, cream coloured walls and some decent dark wood panelling. Each bar has a good amount of standing room opposite, whilst bench and standard seating runs around the perimeter and into a rear room which I failed to explore properly. I noticed at least one small brick fireplace, above which hangs a portrait of Sir Walter Scott, who penned a novel called ‘The Antiquary’ which the pub takes its name from. A decent looking pub menu is available, with most of the main meals clocking in around a tenner. We popped in here for a swift pint before attending a wedding in the church around the corner, so I spent much of my time catching up with old friends rather than noting what beers were available, although I do recall three hand pulled ales, one of which was Deuchars IPA. I tried a golden ale from a Scottish brewer which I found very drinkable and I thought the bar staff were a really friendly and welcoming bunch. This is quite a nice, atmospheric bar which won me over with a cheerful welcome and a good pint of beer. I’m not sure it’s worth a trek from the city centre for, but if you find yourself in Stockbridge I would suggest it as pretty safe bet.