Ghillie Dhu

Ghillie Dhu
2 Rutland Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2AD
  • Telephone 0131 222 9930
  • Bar open Mon–Sun 10am–3am
  • Food served Mon–Sun 10am–9.30pm
  • Average price £12 (set lunch); £15 (evening meal)
  • Email
  • Website www.ghillie-dhu.co.uk

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Eating & Drinking Guide

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This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

If you were ever in any doubt that this is a Scottish bar, a warm greeting from a rugged gent in a rugby-style shirt awaits. Surroundings are of a distinctly rustic and wooden nature while a piano sits desperately wanting to be played, all of which helps to emphasise the folky nature of the establishment. This is a venue that will do and serve anything, from hog roasts to graduation menus, and there are different selections for the auditorium and bar. On the recommended list are Simon Howie’s haggis, neeps and tatties (with a ‘wee whisky sauce’), warm goat’s cheese and beetroot salad and the flame-grilled beef burger (although it can become difficult to eat), while there is also a decent variety of sandwiches, baked potatoes and pies.

  • High point: Lovely surroundings
  • Low point: Some dishes can get messy
  • Number of wines sold by the glass: 12
  • Private dining: 2 private dining snugs each up to 15 people
  • Provides: Vegetarian options (at least ¼ main courses), Children's portions, Children's high chairs, Wheelchair access, Outdoor tables, Live music, Free wi-fi
  • Music on stereo: Cool indie Scottish music
  • Capacity: 200 auditorium, 70 main bar
  • Largest group: 200
  • Open since: 2010
  • House wine: £14.95 per bottle

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Comments & ratings

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6. KLC2 Feb 2012, 4:53pm5 stars Ghillie Dhu Report

Went to Ghillie Dhu with some friends for dinner and drinks, ended up staying the whole night. Food was delicious, atmosphere great and best of all live music was fantastic!

5. StephenJACK2 Feb 2012, 4:20pm5 stars Ghillie Dhu Report

A great venue, fast service and delicious food in big portions!

4. Bobs2 Feb 2012, 4:02pm5 stars Ghillie Dhu Report

I have visited Ghillie Dhu quite a few times, and have always been very happy with all aspects of the visit.
The food is great, and reasonably priced. I have had a few different meals, but the macaroni is definitely worth a try! They always have live entertainment, which is great fun if you love a dance. The staff are friendly and happy to help.
The best part of Ghillie Dhu is the stunning surrounding, their Auditorium is just beautiful. All in all I would recommend a trip to Ghillie Dhu!

3. Browser21 Jan 2012, 8:33pm1 star Ghillie Dhu Report

My wife and I had lunch here on Friday 20th January and were less than impressed. Leak and potato soup for starters should have been a no brainer but was poor value for money at £3.95. Quite a small helping and lukewarm as well. My main course battered fish was greasy and the portion of chips again on the meagre side. Worst of all though, having asked for a fresh orange and soda, we were presented with pints of same laden with ice ( in January!) and charged the princely sum of £3.40 per pint. A total rip off compared to the price of a pint of beer, Government duty and all. Total bill for two courses for two people circa £28.00. I don`t think that we will be back in a hurry.

2. Ed Diner31 Jan 2011, 1:58pm1 star Ghillie Dhu Report

Has gone downhill fast. Dreadful service. I've been here on about 4 occasions and all has been well, however my last visit, mid January 2011, was terrible. Service very poor, when the table was booked we asked for a table of 10 only to be given 2 tables of 5! If I didnt want to sit with my friends I would have asked for separate tables myself. Reduced menu on the night that we were not told about and the waitress demanded our bill be paid before 10pm because she wanted to 'settle everything up' even though we had not finished eating. Complaining has proved useless. I've sent 3 emails and not one has been responded to. I won't be going back.

1. Lancewales4 May 2010, 5:29pm5 stars Ghillie Dhu Report

Myself and my partner were on a romantic 3 day weekend in Edinburgh for the May bank Holiday. The first place we visisted was the Ghillie Dhu,
We found it to be one of the best Pub\Bar\Resurant in Edinburgh.
The staff were very pleasant, and the food very lovely at reasonable prices, we would definatley recomend to anyone

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Average rating 3.5/5 from 6 reviews of Ghillie Dhu.

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