The Devil's Advocate

A bar tucked down a close

Advocate's Close drops steeply from the High Street towards Cockburn Street, and the bar sits partway down, out of the main tourist flow. Inside, stone walls and amber lighting fill a multi-level space with a mezzanine restaurant floor and a towering back bar of bottles. There's also an outdoor terrace. Because it's a historic building, getting in and around involves stairs.

Whisky, cocktails and Scottish food

The whisky list runs to more than 300 bottles from Scotland and further afield, and there are cocktails, wine, craft beer and low- and no-alcohol options too. The kitchen's menu changes with the seasons and leans on Scottish ingredients, with light bites, lunch and dinner. It's a good choice if you want a proper meal and a dram under one roof.

When to go

Book ahead for dinner, especially at weekends and during the Festival – you can reserve online, by phone or by email, and there's a group dining option. It's a natural stop after The Real Mary King's Close or St Giles' Cathedral, both less than 100 metres away, and The Milkman across the close is handy for a morning coffee.

Highlights

• 300+ Scottish and world whiskies
• Converted Victorian pump house on Advocate's Close
• Seasonal menu using Scottish produce
• Mezzanine dining floor and outdoor terrace

Good to know

• Tables can be booked online, by phone (0131 297 4624) or by email.
• Access involves stairs because of the historic building.
• Food is served daily until 9.30pm; the terrace closes at 10pm.

Frequently asked questions