Near Circus Lane is St.Vincent Bar, a Scottish staple that blends modernity with the classic feel of tradition and history of a pub. They play slow-paced rock jams when the crowd is laid back and then louder hits for their buzzing nights. Besides having a glorious musical taste they have supreme knowledge and options of ales, beers, ciders and wines. Sit back and relax on their small terrace during summer and enjoy board games with friends indoors on a winter afternoon. 

Messer is a small but seriously covetable knife shop from the team behind Skua. Run by Katie Messer and chef James Aikman, it’s Scotland’s first specialist artisan knife store, stocking beautifully made Japanese blades from makers like Mcusta, Zanmai and Ryusen alongside cookbooks, food magazines and chef-grade tools.

Down a few stone steps on St Stephen Street, Skua is a candlelit basement where big flavours rule. From the team behind Heron, it serves punchy seasonal small plates cooked in a compact open kitchen. It's earning its stripes for bold combinations, plenty of pickled and fermented elements, and a lively bar pouring inventive cocktails and natural wine. 

This thoughtfully curated fine-jewellery boutique focused on ethical sourcing and distinctive design. Founder Keira Wraae-Stewart brings together pieces from independent makers alongside antique and vintage treasures – Victorian rings, delicate gold chains and sculptural modern pieces sitting happily side by side. The shop is also a destination for bespoke engagement and wedding rings, created in collaboration with clients.