Seemor
Kitty O'Shea's EdinburghCWorth Trying
43B Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 1EP
· Irish pub, Live music bar, Sports bar
· 4.5/5 Google (854 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Lively Irish basement pub for Guinness, live music, and sport; great atmosphere, but security and crowd-management issues appear regularly at peak times.
Why it gets a C for overall quality
Kitty O'Shea's delivers what it promises: energetic live music, reliable Guinness pours and consistent atmosphere, and characterful stone basement setting in central Edinburgh. However, the grade reflects significant operational friction—recurring security complaints and crowding at peak times create friction that undermines the otherwise welcoming vibe, while the absence of kitchen facilities limits appeal beyond drinks-focused visits. Best suited for those prioritizing live music and atmosphere over dining.
Restaurant Summary
Down a New Town staircase, the room feels warm and bustling with stone alcoves, Guinness artwork, and singalongs. Many rave that the music is "the highlight of the night," though several describe security interactions that spoiled otherwise great evenings. The culinary approach is minimal—this is a drinks-first pub. Think reliable pints, cider and whisky, plus live Irish and Scottish tunes rather than plates of food. It suits those seeking atmosphere, sport on screens, and a lively crowd more than diners chasing a sit-down meal. For families, it is not ideal for kids: no kitchen beyond crisps or peanuts and volume runs high during bands and big matches. Earlier hours could work in a pinch, but plan food elsewhere.
At a Glance
- Energetic live music most nights with singalong vibe
- Well-poured Guinness and competitive drink prices
- Recurring security and door-policy complaints
- No kitchen; snacks only
- Very crowded and hot at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- nightly_live_music
- well_poured_guinness
- cozy_basement_nooks
What People Love
- The music lifts the whole room
- Guinness poured properly
- Cozy basement nooks and character
- Friendly bar staff during busy nights
- Sports and music in separate areas reducing sound bleed
Points of Concern
- Door staff and security conflicts reported by multiple guests, sometimes serious
- No food service; only crisps and peanuts
- Occasional sport-broadcast issues (commentary off, match not shown as promised)
- Very crowded at peak; heat and queues common
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£10-18 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Based on reviews, prioritize Guinness or explore cider and whisky; plan dinner at nearby restaurants before visiting
Perfect For
- A late-night singalong with friends
- Catching a match in a lively room
- Pub crawl through New Town
- Solo pint at the bar before dinner elsewhere
Location Insights
Area: Central New Town spot with mixed tourist and local footfall; nightlife and after-work crowds; lively evenings and weekends.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic; crowd-related incidents possible late at night per several reviews.
Nearby: Near George Street bars, shops, and hotels; strong nightlife cluster with sports viewing options nearby.
Frederick StreetFrederick Street is part of Edinburgh's New Town, characterized by elegant Georgian buildings housing a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. The dining scene here is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to refined dining, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking quality food in a stylish urban setting.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–03:00
Tuesday17:00–03:00
Wednesday17:00–03:00
Thursday17:00–03:00
Friday15:00–03:00
Saturday12:00–03:00
Sunday12:00–03:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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