Seemor
PicklesA-Worth Trying
60 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SA
· Wine bar, Bar
· 4.8/5 Google (829 reviews)
Outdoor seating
Cozy wine bar for generous cheese and charcuterie with warm service and fair prices, though peak-time waits and occasional service lapses happen.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
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.
Restaurant Summary
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.
At a Glance
- Generous Scottish cheese and charcuterie platters with fair prices
- Cozy decor and friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Peak-time waits and occasional slow service or billing errors
- Limited options for vegans and picky eaters
- Menu is platters and snacks only, no hot mains
What Sets It Apart
- curated_scottish_cheeses
- cozy_old_world_decor
- platter_plus_bottle_combo_deals
What People Love
- Warm, personable service that offers tastes and advice
- Platter-and-bottle combos that feel like a deal
- Inviting, old-world room with intimate charm
- Orange wine and a well-curated list without snobbery
Points of Concern
- Waiting list at busy hours can be long; arrive early or off-peak
- Service inconsistencies reported on a few visits (delays, bill errors)
- Noise rises quickly in the small space at peak times
- Menu is limited to cold boards and snacks; vegans and hot food seekers may struggle
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£22-34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Share a £24 cheese platter and add olives (£4) and bread (£4) for a fuller spread; consider the £42 combo if you plan to split a bottle.
- Pates (£12.50) add variety but read as jarred products; prioritize boards if freshness is key.
Perfect For
- A relaxed date night with wine and a shared board
- Pre-dinner drinks that turn into a platter feast
- Catching up with friends in a cozy spot
- Out-of-towners seeking a Scottish cheese experience
Location Insights
Area: 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.
Nearby: Close to other wine bars, cafes, and boutique shops; convenient for pre- and post-dinner drinks.
Old TownThe Old Town is bustling with visitors exploring historic sites, theaters, and pubs. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, catering to both casual diners and tourists seeking authentic experiences. The area is lively, pedestrian-friendly, and well-served by public transport.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare of the Old Town, lined with historic buildings, shops, and eateries. It is a hotspot for sightseeing and dining, with many restaurants offering traditional Scottish dishes and quick bites for tourists. The atmosphere is vibrant and often busy, especially during festival seasons.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:30–23:00
Tuesday16:30–23:00
Wednesday16:30–23:00
Thursday16:30–23:00
Friday16:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–23:00
Available: Outdoor seating
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