Address
19 West Register Street, New Town, EH2 2AA
New Town, Edinburgh
New Town, Edinburgh
Best For
Heritage pub, oysters, Victorian atmosphere
Opening Hours
Mon–Wed11:00–23:00
Thu11:00–24:00
Fri–Sat11:00–01:00
Sun12:30–23:00
Reservations
No, walk-in
Dress Code
Smart casual
Price Range
$$ · Pints from £5
Our Take
One of the Most Beautiful Pub Rooms in Britain
Cafe Royal Circle Bar opened in 1862 and the room remains one of the most beautiful pub interiors in Britain. The stained glass windows, Doulton tile murals depicting Victorian inventors, and a circular polished oyster bar at the centre are all original.
The bar serves real ales, a respectable Scotch list, and fresh oysters from the East coast. The food is pub standard with excellent fish and chips. The room is the destination — most visitors come for the architecture as much as the pint.
The crowd is mixed locals and tourists, with the locals defending the room from over-Instagramming. Pair with The Bow Bar for a complete heritage Edinburgh pub crawl.
What to Order
Real Ale
Belhaven Best or rotating Scottish cask ale. The local pour.
Half Dozen Oysters
East coast Scottish oysters with shallot vinegar and lemon. Fresh and perfectly chilled.
Single Malt by the Glass
Respectable Scotch list. Bartender will recommend.
Fish and Chips
Beer-battered haddock with hand-cut chips. Pub standard, well executed.
