Cold Town House
Restaurant | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
Restaurant with brewery 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 at 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 the iconic Rooftop Terrace overlooking the nearby Edinburgh Castle. Since its opening in 2019, the "Cold Town House" has made a name for itself, not least through awards like the "Best Beer Bar" title at the Scottish Beer Awards 2021.
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Culinarily, the "Cold Town House" stands for 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 and praised for its perfect balance of crispy crust and juicy toppings. Also popular are the "Truffle and Parmesan Fries," which are a true delight 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 battered fish pieces – provide a light yet flavorful alternative. The in-house Cold Town Lager, fresh from the on-site microbrewery, perfectly complements the dishes and is celebrated for its clear, refreshing taste. Cocktails like the Pornstar Martini, a sparkling classic with passion fruit and prosecco, round off the offerings.
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The ambiance is as diverse as the menu. The Brewhouse on the ground floor exudes a lively 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 insight 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. Especially in the summer, when the terrace is adorned with flowers, it becomes a hotspot for visitors wanting to enjoy the sun, drinks, and the scenery.
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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 waiting times, as the terrace is particularly sought after. The restaurant takes pride in its versatility: it is dog-friendly in the Brewhouse, accommodates children until the evening, and regularly organizes events like beer festivals or live music that enliven the atmosphere. This flexibility is also reflected in offerings such as takeaway options or private event spaces for celebrations.
