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Bucks Bar - Hanover StreetB-Worth Trying
90 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1EL
· Chicken shop, Brunch restaurant, Chicken restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (360 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
High-energy fried chicken and cocktails with generous portions and fun vibes; expect big flavors, occasional waits, and time-limited tables.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Bucks Bar delivers bold, satisfying chicken and cocktails with strong food quality and genuinely friendly service, making it a solid neighborhood favorite on Hanover Street. However, inconsistent execution during peak times—soggy waffles, variable wing crispiness, delivery delays—and tight seating with strict table limits prevent it from reaching higher ground. Worth visiting for the portions and atmosphere, but expect trade-offs in comfort and reliability when busy.
Restaurant Summary
Down a New Town staircase the room feels warm and bustling, all neon swagger and a playlist that gets heads nodding. Staff are mostly friendly and on it, juggling walk-ins and bookings with good humor even when it is slammed. One diner summed it up: "Big, tasty chicken, loud tunes, and fast help when we needed it." Expect tight quarters at peak and a capped table time. The cooking leans comfort-first with swagger: juicy buttermilk chicken, Nashville heat, and riffs like satay or tonkatsu that keep things fun rather than fancy. It is a portion-forward place where value comes from size and bold sauces more than culinary theatrics; when execution is tight, burgers and waffles sing, though wings and waffles can slip at busy times or on delivery. Families can do well here with plain options like The Fussy Bucker, classic fried chicken, and sides such as mac and cheese. Portions are big, music can be loud for little ones, and there is no dedicated kids menu, but sharing works. Gluten-free diners will appreciate the separate fryer and menu, with staff clearly explaining cross-contamination limits.
At a Glance
- Juicy fried chicken with creative global sauces
- Massive portions and Mon-Wed cocktail discounts
- Tight seating and 75-minute table limits at peak
- Inconsistent wings crispiness and waffle texture when busy
- Delivery orders can suffer from delays and quality dips compared to dine-in
What Sets It Apart
- 40_percent_cocktail_nights
- separate_gluten_free_menu_and_fryer
- bold_global_sauce_program
- massive_portions_value_play
What People Love
- That first crunch of juicy buttermilk chicken
- Playful sauces like satay heat or true Nashville spice
- Wallet-friendly cocktail deals early week
- Staff who fix issues fast and stay upbeat
Points of Concern
- Space can feel cramped and noisy; expect close tables
- Time-limited seatings around 75 minutes create a rushed feel for some
- Wings and waffles can be inconsistent during peak hours or delivery
- Delivery and collection delays reported at times
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-36 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose a £17-18 burger with included fries for best value
- Share a dessert (cakes at £6.50) after heavy mains
- If heat-sensitive, opt for Buff Chick over top-tier Nashville
- Vegetarian diners: halloumi Not Nuggets or jackfruit/seitan burger with fries
Perfect For
- Casual night out with friends who love fried chicken
- Pre-theatre bite with strong cocktails
- Gluten-free diners seeking fried options with separate fryer
- Group celebrations where big portions matter
Location Insights
Area: Central New Town high street setting with mixed retail, bars, and restaurants; popular with office crowds, shoppers, and visitors.
Safety: Well-trafficked and generally safe, especially during shopping and dining hours; typical city-center foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Princes Street shopping, bars, and theatres; basement venue contributing to diner vibe and compact space.
Old TownThe Old Town offers a dynamic dining environment with a blend of traditional Scottish pubs, modern bistros, and international cuisine. The area is lively, especially during festivals and evenings, attracting a diverse crowd seeking both casual and upscale dining experiences.
GrassmarketGrassmarket is a historic market square within the Old Town known for its bustling atmosphere, numerous pubs, and restaurants. It is a popular spot for socializing and dining, with a friendly and energetic vibe that appeals to a broad demographic.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–00:00
Tuesday12:00–00:00
Wednesday12:00–00:00
Thursday12:00–00:00
Friday11:00–01:00
Saturday11:00–01:00
Sunday11:00–01:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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