Seemor
St. Vincent Bar AKA "The Vinnie"B-Worth Trying
11 St Vincent St, Edinburgh EH3 6SW
· Pub, Bar, Cocktail bar
· 4.6/5 Google (696 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Character-packed basement bar near Circus Lane with cozy vibes, strong drinks, and dog-friendly energy; great for a pint or hot gin, but expect table-service quirks and occasional service or pricing gripes.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
St. Vincent Bar delivers a characterful neighborhood experience anchored by exceptional setting appeal and standout atmospheric design that justify its loyal following. However, inconsistent food availability and service reliability prevent a higher grade, while the bar-centric model means food quality remains secondary to cocktails and pints. It excels as a pre-dinner drinks destination or casual local haunt, but falls short of broader dining excellence.
Restaurant Summary
Down a few steps near Circus Lane, The Vinnie opens into a cozy, character-filled basement packed with memorabilia, warm lighting, and a lively hum of chatter. Visitors rave about the friendly bartenders and dog-friendly vibe, with lines like, "We popped in before dinner and ended up staying because it just felt right." However, expect table service norms more than a old-school walk-up pub, which some find confusing at first. The culinary approach leans traditional and comfort-driven: simple hot pies when the kitchen is on, good pints and cocktails, and a seasonal hot gin that shows up in many happy reviews. It suits people who want a neighborhood gem to settle into rather than a culinary production—think pre-dinner drinks or date-night nooks with personality over plates. For families, this is more of a grown-up stop. Reviews note no under 18s after 5pm, and food is limited to pies when available. Kids who like plain, warm snacks might be fine earlier in the day, but given policy, seating pressure, and bar focus, it is not ideal for family meals.
At a Glance
- Atmospheric neighborhood bar near Circus Lane with standout decor
- Dog-friendly culture and warm service on most visits
- Seasonal hot gin and capable cocktails
- Table-service model can cause confusion and time limits on seats
- Occasional drink unavailability and slow service at busy times
What Sets It Apart
- seasonal_hot_gin_specialty
- dog_friendly_culture
- characterful_basement_setting_by_circus_lane
What People Love
- The warm, vintage decor and characterful space
- Friendly bartenders who can guide cocktail choices
- Dog-friendly atmosphere with neighborhood charm
- Seasonal hot gin that feels tailor-made for chilly evenings
Points of Concern
- Seat management can feel pushy during peaks, with time limits or booking conflicts reported by a minority
- Service speed varies; some reports of slow rounds even when the bar seems quiet
- Drinks availability can dip (e.g., coffee liqueur out, certain beers off) leading to substitutions
- Pricing for some items (small wine, hot gin) feels high to a few guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£18-26 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Plan on drinks-first; add a £6 pie if the hatch is running
- If value matters, choose pints or classic cocktails over premium wine by the glass
- Vegetarians should verify the Dauphinase Pie content on the day
Perfect For
- Pre-dinner drinks after a Dean Village or Circus Lane stroll
- Casual date night in a cozy basement bar
- Friends catching up over cocktails and cask ale
- Solo pint with a book and some dog pats
Location Insights
Area: Elegant New Town streets with cobbles and mews lanes; mix of locals and visitors exploring Stockbridge and Circus Lane.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with foot traffic in evenings.
Nearby: Steps from Circus Lane and Dean Village walking routes; residential blocks, boutiques, and other pubs nearby.
New TownNew Town is characterized by its Georgian architecture and a sophisticated dining environment featuring upscale restaurants, trendy bars, and cafes. The area attracts a mix of business people during the day and social diners in the evening, with a generally safe and accessible atmosphere.
West EndThe West End within New Town is known for its slightly quieter streets, boutique shops, and a growing number of independent eateries and bars, offering a more relaxed yet stylish dining experience.
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: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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