Seemor

The Devil's AdvocateA-Worth Trying

Name: The Devil's Advocate
Address: 9 Advocate's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.5

9 Advocate's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND · Gastropub, Bar, Bar & grill · 4.5/5 Google (4853 reviews)

Reservations · Outdoor seating

Atmospheric Old Town gastropub-cocktail bar with outstanding whisky and strong cooking, but service inconsistency and booking hiccups mean reservations and patience are essential.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

The Devil's Advocate delivers solid A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by beautifully executed dishes like lamb rump and venison, paired with an exceptional atmospheric setting in a historic Old Town close. However, inconsistent execution and notably split service experiences—ranging from genuinely attentive to brusque—prevent grade A territory. The whisky program and bar expertise are standout strengths, but service reliability and seating comfort gaps keep this competitive neighborhood favorite from reaching premier status.

Restaurant Summary

Down a narrow Old Town close, the room feels warm and bustling with exposed brick, candlelight, and a bar that locals brag about to visiting friends. Service stories are split, but many recall genuinely attentive bartenders and expert whisky guidance: "The flights felt like a mini tour of Scotland." Expect crowds and booking essential at peak times. The cooking leans elevated Scottish gastropub with smart flourishes—think venison with salsa verde, cod in a tomato and miso broth, and beautifully cooked lamb rump. The culinary approach is contemporary and produce-led: refined comfort with the occasional fusion note rather than theatrics. Cocktails and whisky are headline acts, and bar bites make it easy to graze before committing to mains. Families will find kid-accessible options like burgers, fish and chips, and simple pastas, though the whisky-focused vibe skews adult. The menu shows several vegetarian sides and a vegetarian pasta, but options can run out; plan ahead if you need meat-free mains. High chairs or kids menus are not referenced in reviews, so set expectations accordingly.

At a Glance

Exceptional whisky list with expert guidance and generous flights
Atmospheric hidden-close setting with cozy bar and terrace
Strong dishes like pork chop, lamb, venison; cocktails impress
Service inconsistency from warm and efficient to brusque and slow
Booking reliability and seating policies can frustrate walk-ins

What Sets It Apart

extensive_whisky_flights
hidden_close_atmosphere
heated_terrace
rustic_modern_design

What People Love

Immersive historic atmosphere
Knowledgeable whisky guidance
Vibrant bar energy
Well-executed Scottish mains
Heated terrace for year-round seating

Points of Concern

Host stand interactions and seating rules can feel rigid or brusque
Food pacing may lag at peak; some dishes arrive out of order
Vegetarian selection can be limited or sold out on busy nights
Booking mix-ups and late cancellations reported by several parties

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£42-60 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair the pork chop (£20-22) with confit garlic chips (£5-6) for a satisfying plate.
For vegetarians: Wild garlic & broad bean linguine (£18) or pappardelle (£18) plus tempura broccoli (£6.5).
Sample the hot and cold smoked salmon platter (£18) to share with a crisp white wine.

Perfect For

Pre-theatre cocktails and a snack
Date night in a moody Old Town setting
Whisky exploration with guided flights
Small celebrations with friends

Location Insights

Area: Historic Old Town close off the Royal Mile; tourist-heavy with locals after work; atmospheric alleys and heritage buildings.

Safety: Generally safe, busy with tourists; dim alleyways at night but high foot traffic near Royal Mile.

Nearby: Steps from Royal Mile attractions, bars, and hotels; popular pre/post-sightseeing drinks and dinner spot.

Advocate's CloseAdvocate's Close is a narrow historic alleyway off the Royal Mile, frequented by visitors exploring Edinburgh's heritage and locals working in nearby offices. The dining scene here is intimate, featuring a blend of traditional Scottish pubs and modern eateries catering to both casual diners and those seeking a unique historic ambiance.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–00:00 Tuesday12:00–00:00 Wednesday12:00–00:00 Thursday12:00–00:00 Friday12:00–01:00 Saturday12:00–01:00 Sunday12:00–00:00

Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating

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