Cold Town House
Restaurant | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
Best beer bar in Edinburgh
The "Cold Town House" in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a versatile and modern restaurant that has established itself as a popular meeting point in the historic Old Town. Located on the lively Grassmarket, it stands out with its unique combination of an in-house brewery, creative cuisine, and a spectacular rooftop terrace. The building, a former church, has been stylishly converted and spans three floors, each with its own character – from the cozy Brewhouse on the ground floor to the Pizza and Prosecco floor, and finally to the iconic Rooftop Terrace with views of the nearby Edinburgh Castle. Since its opening in 2019, the "Cold Town House" has made a name for itself, not least by winning accolades such as the "Best Beer Bar" at the Scottish Beer Awards 2021.
Neapolitan pizzas in Edinburgh
Culinarily, the "Cold Town House" represents artisanal enjoyment with a focus on fresh ingredients and local inspiration. The Neapolitan pizzas are a highlight – such as the "Arthur’s Seat," a variant with generous toppings like spicy salami, mozzarella, and fresh parmesan, baked in a specially built stone oven, admired for its perfect balance of crispy crust and juicy toppings. Also popular are the "Truffle and Parmesan Fries," which are a real treat with their intense aroma and creamy note. For meat lovers, the Hanging Grill offers a rustic option, grilling juicy cuts of meat over an open flame, while the "Haddock Goujons" – crispy breaded fish pieces – provide a light but flavorful alternative. The in-house Cold Town Lager, fresh from the on-site microbrewery, perfectly complements the dishes and is praised for its clear, refreshing note. Cocktails like the Pornstar Martini, a bubbly classic with passion fruit and prosecco, round out the offerings.
Rooftop terrace view castle
The ambiance is as diverse as the menu. The Brewhouse on the ground floor exudes a vibrant pub atmosphere, with wooden elements and large screens making it ideal for sports broadcasts or social evenings. The first floor, known as the Pizza & Prosecco Floor, offers an elegant, open environment where guests can watch the brewery in action through floor-to-ceiling windows – a fascinating glimpse into the making of Cold Town Beer. However, the rooftop terrace is the undisputed star: with gondola seating, blankets for cooler days, and a vintage Nissan van as a bar, it offers one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle and the Grassmarket. Particularly in summer, when the terrace is adorned with flowers, it becomes a hotspot for visitors looking to enjoy the sun, drinks, and scenery.
Dog friendly restaurant Edinburgh
The service is often described as friendly and attentive, with staff – including well-known names like Jamie or Leona – striving to create a pleasant experience even during busy times. However, on bustling days, such as during the Fringe Festival or in good weather, there may be wait times, as the terrace is particularly in demand. The restaurant takes pride in its versatility: it is dog-friendly in the Brewhouse, accommodates children well into the evening, and regularly organizes events like beer festivals or live music that enliven the atmosphere. Flexibility is also evident in offerings like takeaway options or private event spaces for celebrations.
