Bar Diesel

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.

Part of the growing bar scene in 'New Leith', this converted warehouse (formerly Stack) opened under new management in late 2007. Tucked up a side street off the Shore, the bar has kept the original stone walls and wooden beams, with the addition of a chunky motorbike as a focal point for petrolheads to coo or climb over. Snacks, available all day, include beef nachos, goat's cheese salad or fries with garlic topping or blue cheese and bacon. For more of a knives-and-forks experience, the back room houses a separate restaurant, which becomes candle-lit and cosy in the evenings. The food is a cut above standard pub grub, and details such as complimentary mini fish and chips appetisers while you're waiting for your order to be taken betray the thought that goes into keeping customers happy. Breast of pheasant with moist black pudding, or sea bass and salmon with creamy champagne and lemon velouté are reasonably priced at less than a tenner, while desserts such as chocolate and Cointreau mousse or a cheese plate with chutney come in large but prettily arranged portions. The management plans to turn the courtyard into a patio with tables by summer 2008, but in the meantime this makes a chilled-out spot for drinks or dinner.

• High point: Relaxed atmosphere, with easygoing staff standing by
• Low point: Chocolate mousse was more firm than fluffy

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