Not that this place needed any more positive reviews, but we had an amazing meal here. Did not feel rushed either. read more

The Devil's Advocate - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

We had gotten a recco for this place from a bartender in London and happened to stumble upon it one day. Thought we'd pop in for a dram and ended up staying a few hours. The whisky list is impressive as expected but the service was fantastic. We chatted with one of the bartenders who I would guess is also the manager and he was incredibly enthusiastic about whisky. Very generous with advise and tasting. We ended up ordering the scallops and serrano and were very pleased with the quality of the scallop dish. It was delicious. Can't really mess up serrano but the bread they served with it was fresh and the olive oil very good. Can't wait to go back. read more

The walk down the crooked narrow street to this wee hideaway bar just as the sun was leaving us for the day was really special and part of the dazzlement of devil's advocate. This bar is amazing, quirky and has a really chilled vibe. The bar staff are knowledgeable about their alcohol and happy to whip up your favourite cocktail or invent one for you on the spot. Table service is available or you can stand in the bar area admiring the many bottles of whiskey on show or the bartenders ever growing beards and moustache art! It's such a cool bar and a great place to come with friends or visitors of the city. Reasonable prices for the quality of drinks, service and ambience, easily my favourite bar in Edinburgh and tonight you were looking beautiful. read more

See all

This was a fantastic local place to visit. I was here for a field trip (because the geology in this area is amazing). The students wanted to show us around and we stopped here after an evening of ghost tours. They have both local and imported whiskeys and I was impressed to find they had lighter cocktails if a whiskey neat isn't your style. The tables are intimate and cozy. It's a lovely stop at any time of day. The waitress was insanely knowledgable and clearly has good taste in whiskey. She was able to make successful recommendations to each person's palate. Like I said, great hole in a wall to visit if you're ever in Edinburgh. read more

Great dining experience at devils advocate for the following reasons: 1. Everything we ordered was well conceived and well executed (house sampler, crispy polenta main, thai coconut fish) 2. Staff was friendly. 3. Ambiance was special and interesting. 4. A huge scotch list to choose from and some good IPAs on tap. read more

My friend and I were visiting Scotland for a week and we had read about Devil's Advocate and made reservations. It was hands down the BEST meal I had in Scotland. From the atmosphere to the service to the amazing food and wine - it was perfect! I have recommended this place to any friends of mine looking to visit Edinburgh. We had the Haggis starter which was delicious. I tell everyone just how delicious their haggis was. As an American who has only had Haggis a hand full of times in my life, this was the best dish I had the whole trip. Then I was equally as impressed with the roasted chicken and polenta. The whole meal was done so well. I can't wait to go back!! I highly recommend making a reservation if you're visiting Edinburgh! read more

See all

Hidden on Advocate's Close down the stairs off the Royal Mile. Stopped in for drinks on a cold afternoon after museums. Opted for a hot toddy and a drink called the "Arcadian Man." Both we're fantastic Marker's Mark and Bullet bourbon based cocktails. We also order a couple standard Old Fashioned's which were equally good. Not much space in the bar area but definitely worth sticking around even if a table isn't readily available. Decor is great. Quick attention from the server as well. Happy we stopped by! read more

The Devil's Advocate - The Good, The Bad, and The Toddy & The Arcadian Man - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Dropped in for a drink and was not disappointed. The bar staff's knowledge and skill was great to see. Great Whiskey , great atmosphere. read more

The Devil's Advocate - Whiskey Sour. - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

This place was amazing..... The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was the time it took to get our cocktails. Amazing place for tourists to visit**** read more

Food was outstanding, service was mediocre, but the environment so noisy that we couldn't have a conversation. read more

The Devil's Advocate - Really...just look at that burger! - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

The Devil's Advocate's motion in declaration of tastiness is granted. Ok sorry, lame joke. But this place is great. Friendly/knowledgable bartenders, good cocktails, beer, and liquor selection plus a fine menu. My bartender was very honest when I asked him for his dish/beer recommendation. I got the beef cheeks and marrow pie, which was excellent. The large amounts of marrow and connective tissue gave it the semi-sticky mouthfeel of ox-tail. The bartender said he'd normally get a stout with it, but the stout of the day wasn't great and recommended a different beer (an IPA). read more

This place is good. We got the haggis Bon Bons to start and they were good. I got the burger and it was decent- not the best burger I've had but it was definitely unique. I couldn't taste the pork belly but having black pudding on a burger was definitely interesting. The fries that came with the meal weren't very good. The potato was maybe a tad under cooked. The bf had the fish of the day (which was essentially fish and chips). He thought it was good- I had a bite and wasn't too impressed but to each his own. It was served atop a bed of smashed peas- again interesting, but not the most complimentary combination in my opinion. We had the chocolate tart for dessert and it was good- served with a scoop of strawberry ice cream. The chocolate is a bit strong, but it was fine for us. What I love about this place is the ambience- Its romantic, small and borderline hipster. Reminds me a lot of Chicago. read more

I had the pleasure of attending this pub for the first time for Yelp's 3rd Birthday cake and wine event. A lovely crisp white was handed to me upon entry by a very nicely moustachioed man and then some amazing cake was gobbled up. The upstairs wouldmake a great events space, and the downstairs booths would make a nice intimate meal location. The food menu looks tip top as well. I really like the feel of the Devil's Advocate, it's got some decent beers on tap which I shall be back to sample again and the environment felt pretty relaxed and enjoyable. Will definitely be back to try out the food and everything else! read more

My friend and I went for an afternoon drink, and we fell in love with this place. I ordered Modern Era from the cocktail menu which was whisky-based with lemon juice, egg yolk, ginger beer, bitters, etc. I LOVED it. Ambience is amazing as well. My type of place absolutely -- warehouse type of feel but sophisticated and hip. Service was awesome as well. We were seated immediately at a barrel, which added to the speakeasy type of experience, and our waitress was very helpful and kind. Definitely recommend this place for drinks -- at anytime of the day! read more

We heard about Resturant on our tour around Scotland. They said it was the best restaurant in Edinburgh. We made reservations and went while in town. They did not disappoint. Nice relaxing dinner. Everyone in our party got the same dish, the beef brisket. Waiter said by far that was his favorite. It was truly amazing. Tender and tasty. They also had a wonderful selection of wines, beers and of course Whiskey. Highly recommend! read more

I visited the Devil's Advocate today for a lovely boozy lunch and it did not disappoint. There was a veggie butternut squash option on the lunch menu - however not fancying this I went for a medley of veggie starters and sides. I opted for mushrooms on toast, chips and side salad and it was mega tasty. We shared a bottle of White Burgundy, which was buttery, smooth and unoaked - unfortunately it was also £29 per bottle. Here's the sting with this place - they are expensive - especially the wines which ranged from about £23 to £60. However, it is just off a main tourist spot in Edinburgh - so I guess that's to be expected. The service was attentive and we had an awesome waiter who advised us well with our dessert option - the Buffalo Trail cocktail - refreshing and tasty. An awesome spot - but they could introduce a couple more affordable wines to their menu. read more

See all

The location is oddly out of the way, but people definitely know where it is. Atmosphere is very cool, food very good, and drinks are great. Service is a bit sluggish. read more

The meal I had at this restaurant was the best meal I ate on my entire 2 week vacation in Europe. We ordered a lamb burger, a roast beef salad (full size) and two Thistley Cross Whiskey Cask Ciders. The burger was perfectly cooked, and was absolutely delicious. It came with chips that were amazing, and was topped with some kind of grilled onions that were to die for. The roast beef salad was just as good, and came with a hearty portion of roast beef, mixed greens, perfectly ripe cherry tomatoes, soft boiled eggs, and some kind of balsamic dressing. I also highly recommend the cider we ordered, it was probably the best drink I've ever had. The restaurant itself is just as appealing as its food. It has a very dark and trendy theme, which fits well with it. Their drink menu is as thick as a bible, and the staff was really friendly and welcoming. Make sure you call and make a reservation because it gets packed! We went on a Tuesday and we had to wait 30 minutes for a table. If you live in or are visiting Edinburgh then definitely stop by the Devils Advocate for drinks and dinner, you will not be disappointed. read more

We stopped at the Devil's Advocate after a very long day of traveling. The place is in a very cool old building down a narrow path that cuts between buildings. The path is called "Advocate close." The place was very busy and we found a couple seats at the bar. I have very little experience with Scotch Whisky. The bartenders were very helpful with choosing some different whiskies for me to try. They had a huge selection and seemed to know about all of them. I asked for something in the range of 5-6 pounds. When I got the bill noticed the few that I tried were only 4 pounds. I was happy they didn't go the other direction in price. There was about a 30 minute wait for a table for dinner. We asked if we could eat at the bar. With some checking with the manager, they were able to accommodate our request. We started with a really good Salmon Salad and spilt an order of fish and chips. Overall we had a pretty good experience! read more

Ambiance was outstanding. Seating was very close. Tried to go one night without a reservation, and couldn't get in, so we made a reservation the next night (Hint: Make reservations at night) I heard about the burgers being great, but they must be a daytime item, as there were no burgers on the menu when we went. All of our food was great however, even if i didn't get a burger. Whiskey lovers will enjoy the place, as many many selections. We had grown fond of Ciders here in the UK, and their only cider options were in a can. That's the only down side. Give it a try, and you'll enjoy the meal! read more

So well done--gorgeous spot isolated on a close, yet steps from St. Giles. The food was outstanding and the drinks list extensive. I echo comments on slow table service and there is a bit of hipster attitude in the place. But for a mid-afternoon snack it really hit the spot, with very cool ambience. read more

The Devil's Advocate - Pan seared scallops with chorizo. - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

This was a fantastic find! The staff showed us wonderful curtesy, exceptional menu and city knowledge, and many laughs! The quirky atmosphere and charming decor is beckoning me back to Edinburgh. Visitor or local, do yourself a favor and visit this alleyway gem! read more

Client took me here for dinner. Nice dark ambience with a large selection of wine and spirits. Many versions of scotch were ordered. I had the fish of the day. Very tender and tasty, portion was a bit small. read more

The Devil's Advocate - Fish of the day - Wine Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

I will remember this restaurant forever! Tucked down a steep alleyway off the Royal Mile, Devil's Advocate has that hole in the wall mystery feel immediately. They have the widest selection of alcohol I have ever seen, and they have some great mixed drinks. Definitely a good place to go if you want to experiment. The food is solid, but it is now where near as amazing as their drink selection! One of my favorite restaurants I've been to in the UK! read more

What an amazing Gastro Pub! I enjoyed a glass of sparkling vouvray with my North African Harissa spiced chicken. They have a wonderful cocktail menu which is unique and varied. A wide selection of scotches and whiskies. Their menu was very fresh and original. Truly a wonderful experience. You must try it. read more

See all

Great space, friendly staff but the portions are entirely too small and significantly overpriced. By and large I was unimpressed - not sure why it would be #1 in Edinburgh. read more

I come here everyone I'm in town for work. The vibe is amazing. Employees are lovely. Everything I've ever order is spot in and always amazing. Don't leave Edinburgh without stopping in here!! Make reservations for dinner! read more

Looked fun! Great bar! Go down the steps at the Advocate off The Royal Mile. There was a two hour wait so we did not get to eat here. I gave it a five for atmosphere! read more

What a meal! Came in with wife and few friends early in a week, we got lucky as we didn't have a reservation but were quickly shown to a table after a round of drinks at the bar. Everybody loved their food, staff was attentive but not too attentive, they've recommended wine to go with our food perfectly. We finished the night off with a lovely dram of whisky. Very enjoyable experience read more

Delicious food in a great space down one of Edinburghs charming closes. We had both vegeterian and gluten free options and all items were delicious! I would highly recommend making a reservation before you go. read more

If you are looking for a fun, off the beaten track pub with a great vibe and Scottish flavor in Edinburgh, this is a great place. The beer and food was good too. read more

The ribeye here is one of the best I've had in EU! I highly recommend the cocktails - had the rashomon, double standard, and mangoes into a bar. Service was awesome as they recommended excellent selection of Scotch for me, they have over 200 on the menu! Call ahead to make sure you get a table as this place is very busy esp on weekends. read more

See all

Hidden gem, the fish and chips are so tasty. The decor gives the restaurant/bar a cave-like ambience. Will definitely return if I find myself in Edinburgh again... I sincerely hope that I do. read more

Kind of tucked away but with a great atmosphere. Food was excellent as well as the staff. Very friendly, great scotch flights

Wonderful place, make reservations as they book up quickly. Mussels are epic, we had cod and tenderloin with delightful peppercorn sauce. Service was fun and outstanding. Great hidden spot like many cool places in this incredible city. If you can get a table just do it! read more

Food: 2 stars. Menu lacks cohesion, food lackluster and mostly heavy food. Had haggis, mussels, soup, and salad. Mussels rubbery, soup lukewarm, And how can you mess up chips??? (They can, and did. Soggy, undercooked, sad, and limp.) Ambiance: 3 stars. Lots of warm candlelight, but tables for two are uncomfortably small. Service: 1 star. Very brusque, and staff seemed overwhelmed. Plus we were asked to hurry up halfway through our mains because a reservation had arrived and they needed our table. Why even bother to seat us at all? Drinks: 3 stars. Some interesting cocktails, and had a truly excellent drink. Expensive for what you get, however, and wine list is both average and overpriced. Experience: 0 stars. Came in with a friend on a late Friday afternoon/early evening. The place was packed, and several drunk people were stumbling around, including one guy who literally pushed a woman out of his way at the bar and spilled her Champagne, no acknowledgement or apology. He was then immediately served and pushed his way back through people, slopping his beer everywhere. Yes, he was an asshole but clearly over served. Crowd in general was mixed but trended toward hipster millennials who nursed drinks and empty glasses, taking constant selfies and talking as loud as humanely possible. I really, really wish I could get that hour and a half of my life back. read more

I'd heard about this place, both on here and on the TWITTAH grapevine. Given I was wandering aimlessly from place to place the other night, I figured this would be a test of my navigational skills. I never realise where the stairs at the bottom of Advocate's close came on until I walked down them after I left here, but I'm getting ahead of myself now, I suppose. Back to the beginning! So from the outside, it looks nice and new and stylish and clean, and a big glass door entrance. When you go in, it's very modern and funky, all exposed brick and chrome and black steel... indeed, the first thought I had was that I'd walked into the nightclub from the original Terminator movie, which would have been weird and required time travel too. There was a huge range of spirits behind the bar, and the staff seemed to be spot on with their recommendations to people; I settled for a bourbon, lemonade, and lime - and it came in at a reasonable £4. For a modern-ish new bar, that's not bad, especially in city centre Edinburgh prices. It was exceedingly busy when I was in, about 10pm on a Friday evening, and a lot of people did seem to want to be there to be seen to be there, if you know what I mean. Wandering in off the street on my own, I did feel a little out of place, and the lack of hidey holes or wall based drinking places stuck out like a sore thumb to me. All of those problems wouldn't have mattered if I wasn't Johnny No Friends and was with a huge group, so that's on my head, not the bar's :) With all that in mind, I would definitely come back here, although I think it would have to be early in the night to try and get a seat! read more

No food this time. I was waiting at the bar and I saw the 'cocktail master' preparing some delicate cocktails. I asked him to provide me with a signature spicy Bloody Mary. He was happy to oblige. I found that he was using a 'celery bitter' and this has now become a real hit with me. I could easily identify the bitter and found it very pleasing. Service overall has been efficient and welcoming. I may return for a meal at some point. read more

When you've had a stressful morning, walked the streets of Edinburgh all day and have some time to waste before your reservation at The Witchery, what do you do? You decide to walk down some random alley (in this case the spectacular Advocates Close) that Edinburgh is littered with, that's what you do. Then, you stumble across a place like the Devil's Advocate and you decide that sitting down for a pre-dinner drink drink is a fantastic idea - and what a fantastic idea it was! The Devil's Advocate is quite hidden, especially for people who do not frequent Edinburgh half as often as they should. I love the interior all wooden and steel, medieval, kind of thing, it was bustling which was brilliant especially because it was a week night, and their bar is perfectly stocked - with a selection of 200 whiskeys no less. We were seated at a two persons table for drinks. Unfortunately it was on the way to the bathrooms and the kitchen, but fortunately this didn't create too much through traffic. The girl who was waiting on us was nice enough, she definitely fit the slightly hipster vibe of this place. We didn't see much of her, but she did recommend an amazing lager/IPA hybrid: The Williams Bros. Brewing Co. Caesar Augustus. Amazing. It went down a treat, and then something incredible happened. For the first time in my life I ate something that in South Africa they call "Corn nibs". A fantastic bar snack, it's essentially dried little bits of sweetcorn with some seasoning. My word, they were amazing (and subsequently I did buy some the next time I went to South Africa), and the only reason that we did get them was because the kitchen was already pretty much closed. A little bit of a downer was that we had to pay for this bar snack - it felt a little like being charged for eating the peanuts that you find on the bar counter. Their menu looks very inviting, with a lot of focus being put on Scottish produce. Next time I would to see what the upstairs-mezzanine seating area is like. I cannot wait to come back. read more

Try the ox cheek! I was skeptical, but decided to go for it. The dish ended up being one of the best I've ever had. If I'm ever back in Edinburgh I'll absolutely be back to The Devil's Advocate for a meal. read more