Cozy wine bar for generous cheese and charcuterie with warm service and fair prices, though peak-time waits and occasional service lapses happen.
Pickles delivers exceptional food quality through generously portioned Scottish cheese and charcuterie platters with smart pairings and fair value. Outstanding setting appeal and attentive, knowledgeable service create an intimate, welcoming experience that keeps guests returning. The grade reflects strong execution within its specialized concept, though peak-time waits and a limited menu scope (boards and snacks only) prevent it from reaching grade A territory.
Pickles is the kind of intimate wine bar where the room feels warm and bustling, platters land with hearty wedges of Scottish cheese, and staff chat about what glass will fit best. One diner summed it up as "a beautiful, cozy evening with friendly faces and generous boards," the sort of spot that invites lingering over a second pour. At peak times there can be a queue and the space gets lively, but the setting and service usually make it feel worth the wait. The culinary approach leans classic and product-driven: a cheese-and-charcuterie specialist with smart chutneys, pickles, and pates rather than kitchen theatrics. Wines are well-chosen for the format, from house reds to orange wine, and value is strong thanks to platter-and-bottle combos. Most visits read as smooth and delightful, though a few guests wished for clearer cheese explanations or faster service on busy nights. Families should know the menu revolves around boards and bites. Bread, simple cheeses, and crisps can suit some kids, but there is no children menu and the vibe skews adult. If you need hot mains or vegan options, choices are limited; plan accordingly and consider off-peak for a calmer experience.
Area vibe: Lively edge of New Town with independent eateries, bars, and a mixed after-work and date-night crowd.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked streets with steady evening footfall.
What's nearby: Close to other wine bars, cafes, and boutique shops; convenient for pre- and post-dinner drinks.
The cheese and platter options define Pickles, from a £24 Scottish Cheese selection to mixed meat-and-cheese boards.
Plan to dress casually and expect a small, buzzy space with waits at peak times.
An intimate, old-world room where conversation and wine take center stage, especially on busy nights.