Will only be in this area for a short time! However, wow! What a great place. Massive respect to Nikki and her team for their hospitality and their outstanding customer service. Never felt so welcome than I have done here. Only been to one bar in my time here and won’t go to any other. Beyond highly recommended. Great people, great chat, great drink and the best welcome ever. Go! You will be looked after. Massive love and adoration to Nikki and the team ❤️
Best cheesesteak I’ve ever had! The beef was tender, the cheese perfectly melted, and the bread just right. Super friendly staff. Can’t wait to come back!
Wow! We visited expecting pub grub, but we were surprised with one of the best meals we've had in Edinburgh. Each plate balanced and memorable. We had a couple of lovely cocktails, too. Staff were delightful (hello Pete!) and atmosphere was relaxed and lively. We will definitely be back.
The decor is paired back with both the interior and exterior sporting a hunter green, setting a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with the cocktail bar at the front, perfect for a quick drink or a relaxed chat. Down a few steps towards the rear, you’ll find a dining area with some comfortable booths that are ideal for more intimate meals. You can however, eat anywhere in the bar.
Service is laid back, friendly and very relaxed serving up casual vibes that make you feel like you have been coming here for years and this really is your ‘local’.
Their cocktail menu is a true homage to Peruvian flavours, showcasing ingredients like Pisco, purple corn juice (Chicha Morada), Olmeca tequila, and the iconic Inca Kola. We couldn't resist trying the 'Pisco Pop' (£8.90)—a delightful blend featuring Peru's beloved soft drink, Inca Kola. It’s incredibly easy to drink and has quickly become a crowd favourite!
Some bar snacks to nibble on included these gorgeous big juicy green Olives (£3) and some toasted corn known as Maiz Chulpe! (very addictive).
Their menu is thoughtfully curated, presenting a well-balanced selection of small plates, large plates, and desserts. Each section offers a delightful array of flavours to suit every palate.
The small plates menu features enticing dishes like Crispy Monkfish cheeks (£8) and Salt-baked parsnip with pear, Strathdon blue, and hazelnuts (£6). We decided to try the Coronation Fried Cauliflower (£5)—a generous serving of crispy cauliflower infused with a hint of spices and topped with a creamy, flavourful sauce.
The large plates carry on this delightful trend, each dish thoughtfully prepared to showcase the best of hearty, simple ingredients. There are only three large plate dishes
Hokkaido Squash (£13), Bacon Chop (£15) and The Bonnington Cheesesteak and chips (£15)
We went for the Bacon Chop and the Cheesesteak. The Bacon Chop with cabbage and mash is a comforting culinary experience that wraps each bite in a warm, satisfying embrace.
The bacon chop is irresistibly succulent, perfectly cooked to retain all its juicy goodness. The smoky cabbage adds a delicious depth, complementing the rich flavours of the dish. And then there's the mash—creamy and smooth, it just makes this entire meal extra!
When it comes to indulgence, their cheesesteak sandwich sets the bar high. Imagine two substantial slices of perfectly toasted bread, generously filled with tender steak and melted cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food that promises to satisfy your cravings every single time.
For Desserts we chose the Chocolate Fondant with creme fraiche (£7) and the Meyer Lemon crème brûlée and shortbread (£5)
Their desserts are the perfect indulgence after a carb-heavy feast, perfectly sized to leave you satisfied yet craving more. Though petite, the flavours are anything but small—each dessert is a masterclass in culinary execution.
When the beautifully crafted desserts arrived at our table, it was clear they were made with precision and passion. The sheer delight on my face as I cut into the chocolate fondant was rare; the rich, molten centre oozing out offered unparalleled foodie satisfaction. It was an entire experience in a single bite.
Meanwhile, the crème brûlée was a little masterpiece of texture and taste. A gentle tap of the spoon broke through the perfectly caramelised top, revealing the creamiest, smoothest vanilla custard underneath. Each spoonful was a luxurious blend of crunchy and velvety, leaving me in a state of dessert bliss.
The food and drink, much like the decor, embrace a minimalist yet sophisticated charm. There are no elaborate frills or quirky presentations here. Instead, it's all about celebrating the pure, unadulterated flavours.
The Bonnington is quickly becoming a beloved neighbourhood favourite. Locals and visitors will be drawn to its unpretentious yet high-standard offerings, making it a go-to spot for anyone seeking a truly satisfying dining experience.
Taken over by new management towards the end of 2024, this recently refurbished pub is now one of my top 10 favourite pubs in Edinburgh. The soft lighting creates a really chilled atmosphere to enjoy a wide range of drinks and cocktails. A great local pub which is suitable for all age and social groups.