The Cumberland Bar

You'll find yourself on Cumberland Street in the heart of the New Town, sliding into a booth or bellying up to the bar alongside a genuine mix of locals and visitors who've actually heard about the place. The Cumberland does that rare thing: it's a proper pub that takes its food seriously without ever feeling like it's trying too hard. The menu's built around honest, flavourful cooking—think slow-cooked meats, good pies, and seasonal veg done right. The drinks list punches well above gastropub weight, with a thoughtful selection of Scottish gins and ales that'll make any craft beer enthusiast nod approvingly. It's the kind of place where you can grab a quick pint and a bowl of something warming, or settle in for an evening of good food and better company.