Cold Town House
Restaurant | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
Best pizzas in Edinburgh
The "Cold Town House" in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a versatile and modern restaurant that has established itself as a popular meeting spot in the historic Old Town. Located on the bustling 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 level, up to the iconic Rooftop Terrace with views of the nearby Edinburgh Castle. Since its opening in 2019, the "Cold Town House" has made a name for itself, not least through awards such as the title of "Best Beer Bar" at the Scottish Beer Awards 2021.
Rooftop terrace with Edinburgh Castle view
Culinary-wise, the "Cold Town House" stands for artisanal enjoyment with a focus on fresh ingredients and local inspiration. The Neapolitan pizzas are a highlight – for example, the "Arthur’s Seat," a variant with generous toppings like spicy salami, mozzarella, and fresh parmesan, baked in a specially built stone oven, cherished for its perfect balance of crispy crust and juicy toppings. The "Truffle and Parmesan Fries," with their intense aroma and creamy note, are also a real treat. For meat lovers, the Hanging Grill offers a rustic option where juicy cuts are grilled over an open flame, while the "Haddock Goujons" – crispy battered fish pieces – provide a light yet flavorful alternative. The house-brewed Cold Town Lager, fresh from the on-site microbrewery, perfectly complements the dishes and is praised for its crisp, refreshing note. Cocktails like the Pornstar Martini, a fizzy classic with passion fruit and Prosecco, complete the offering.
Craft cuisine in Edinburgh
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 production of Cold Town Beer. However, the rooftop terrace is the undisputed star: equipped with gondola seating, blankets for cooler days, and a vintage Nissan van as a bar, it provides one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle and the Grassmarket. Especially in summer, when the terrace is adorned with flowers, it becomes a hotspot for visitors looking to enjoy the sun, drinks, and the backdrop.
Cold Town House restaurant reviews
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 nice weather, there may be wait times as the terrace is particularly in demand. The restaurant takes pride in its versatility: it is dog-friendly in the Brewhouse, accommodates children until late in the evening, and regularly hosts events like beer festivals or live music that enliven the atmosphere. Flexibility is also shown in offerings such as takeaway options or private event spaces for celebrations.
