The Canons' Gait

Fell over the Canons Gait, which was round the corner from Central Travelodge where we were staying and I am pleased to say that we did, I ordered Tia Maria and coke for my wife and as I don't know the local beers, I asked the barman for a pint of his most popular beer.
and I must say that it was really nice well kept beer.
We ordered our meal which came in about 10 minutes and although was a basic menu, it was very tasty and nice and hot.
For sweet we both had the Apple and Bramble Crumble which had almonds in the crumble mix, which made a crumble very nice indeed.
It came with ice cream, but I asked if there was any chance that I could have custard, That was not a problem only that I would have to wait a couple of minutes longer as the chef made it from fresh.
My view on my visit to Canons Gait is that it was a cosy well organised establishment, with helpfull friendly staff, who went out of their way to make us feel welcome.
I would highly recommend this pub to anyone visiting Edinburgh.

I couldn't disagree more with the above two comments. In fact, the reason I found this site, was because I was searching for the address so that I could recommend the Canons' Gait to a friend. Without question, I found the pub to be the best on the Royal Mile. And we went to a few! The real ales I tried (Stewart Brewing) were of excellent quality.The servers were attentive and friendly (and I'm not a female), and the food was well above the expectations of 'pub grub'- in fact I would go as far to say restaurant standard (but at pub prices). I feel as though we are reviewing different businesses. Maybe they've changed chef's or management? Whatever the reason, I'd strongly recommmend giving the pub another try, I'll certainly be returning on my next visit.

I couldn't agree more with the previous poster. The staff and management in this establishment seem to think of the place as their own front room. When they are not gossiping behind the coffee machine or doing "work" in the office, their standard of service is so "relaxed" that one may as well serve oneself. I have the distinct impression that customers are viewed as a general inconvenience. That is unless you are an attractive young lady, then the male staff will certainly ensure that your every whim is catered to - while ogling and doing "phwoar" noises and gestures with their friends. This place is appallingly managed and staff are lazy and very often surly. Food can be good at times, though portions are on the mean side. Otherwise, avoid at all costs!

Went there with friends yesterday from abroad to eat and drink. Liked the food but the portions (mussels) were tiny. When I paid I mentioned that this portion would be appropriate for a starter but not a main. Waiter was extremely un-interested and acted as I had not said anything. I said that I would like to speak to someone who is more interested and was told "The chef is busy and that`s our portions!" He probably thought because we were speaking a foreign language we were tourists who never come back anyway. I work in gastronomy and would slap his a** if this was my staff!

Wonderful, friendly service, with 'happy to help' staff . You feel a guest- not a customer- a difficult feat on the very busy Royal Mile.

Wide variety of drinks, all at below the norm price, with a selection of real ales in tip-top condition.

Food, I was told, is soon to change, so looking forward to that;
Though delicious- my table waited a little longer than we would have expected for our mains. Compensated though, by once again, the wonderfully attentive staff- who kept us well watered and smiling with their "banter".