Just in time for the build up to Christmas, Edinburgh has another bar/restaurant opening in the heart of the capital city.
The Refinery, in St Andrew Square, part of the Drake & Morgan portfolio of bars and restaurants across the UK, opened its doors this week.
It is set across two floors with floor-to-wall ceiling windows separated by a sprawling spiral staircase. A wee word of warning about the staircase. If you’re upstairs and have had one cocktail too many, you may need someone to help you downstairs!
The large windows give passers-by the opportunity to view the impressive décor from the outside and there is a certain style and elegance one would usually associate with a centre of Edinburgh establishment.
The main bar is at the front along with the dining area with a more intimate restaurant setting at the back where diners can appreciate high-class service, a wide selection of fine wines and delicious food.
Drake & Morgan have ten such restaurants/bars around the London area but they have taken into account the colder Scottish climate with an al fresco terrace complete with blankets and hot water bottles! I’m not so sure of the need for these accessories – we’re a hardy lot in Scotland!
The Refinery has a varied menu including a selection of sharing boards with small plates and traditional dishes including salads and burgers. I must say the goats cheese and beetroot nibble I tasted was sublime. The restaurant is open from 8.00am to cater for breakfast diners and caters throughout the day until the midnight hour (except Sunday when it closes at 7.00pm)
My only quibble at the media event on Thursday, was the music was a bit loud and there were so many people there it felt a bit claustrophobic. It would seem the Refinery is targeting a younger clientele – I’ve been a drinker for 40 years and have never been in a gents’ toilet in a bar which had scented candles!
That said, I’ve no doubt the Refinery in Edinburgh will be a great success.
Author of The Team for Me - 50 Years of Following Hearts. Runs Mind Generating Success, a successful therapy practice in Edinburgh. Contact me if you want rid of any unwanted habits. Twitter @Mike1874
“Where is “St Andrews Square
Oh dear Bob you are very quick! Yes it is St Andrew Square…. off to change it!
One ‘s’ too many – the perils of posting after a cocktail or three! Thanks for pointing it out, Bob.
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