We take a look at the best pubs and venues to grab an outdoor bite this summer.
Words: Jodi Mullen
In a fabulous location overlooking Arthur’s Seat, The historic Sheep Heid Inn offers a great barbecue throughout the summer months ‘come rain or shine’. The Heid’s barbies offer the usual fare such as sausages and kebabs, plus more exotic options like venison and ostrich burgers.
The Pear Tree, 38 West Nicholson Street
The Pear Tree has a charming walled beer garden in which to soak up the rays. It has picnic tables, atmospheric lighting, a characterful cobbled yard and outside, bottle-only bar. Throughout the summer they hosts local bands several nights a week. Regular bbq’s start from May – September, midday till dusk, Chicken, steaks, burgers, kebabs and at least one veggie option are on offer.
The Outhouse, 12a Broughton Street, Lane
Tucked away down a quiet cobbled alleyway, the Outhouse holds great value ‘party’ barbecues on a Sunday once a month. It has live DJ’s and a great, laid-back atmosphere. A selection of grilled meats is available and burgers are ‘free’ (though entry costs £2). The beer garden is large and has plenty of seating.
Castle Rock Hostel, 15 Johnstone Terrace
With a stunning location directly beneath the castle, the Castle Rock has a sunny, leafy terrace on which weekly barbecues are held (weather permitting). The vibe is relaxing, the company of the various globetrotting travellers is entertaining and wiht spectacular views.
Tailor’s Hall Hotel (Three Sisters)
Tailor’s Hall is set in a historic brick building just 500m. from the castle. The hotel bar – the famous Three Sisters – opens onto a lovely cobbled courtyard where barbecues are held during the summer months.
Smart City Hostel, 50 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh
Centrally located (just off the Royal Mile). Bar 50 at Smart City hostel have a barbecue every Saturday and Sunday during the summer months. The attractive courtyard is a real suntrap and the atmosphere is cosmopolitan and lively with a DJ providing a funky backdrop. They offer Aberdeen Angus beefburgers, Cumberland sausages and marinated pork steaks.
Khublai Khan Mongolian Barbecue, Assembly Street, Leith
Khublai is based on Mongolian warriors’ practice of cooking their meal on an upturned shield over a fire. You put together your own ingredients by filling your bowl from a selection of fresh vegetables on a base of rice, beansprouts, noodles or tofu. You then add your choice of meat or seafood including such novelties as venison, wild boar, ostrich, springbok, zebra, kangaroo and shark. You then take your selection to a huge open barbeque where it’s cooked.
