Christopher Reekie
The Cafe Royal, looking towards St Andrew Square
The visitor to Edinburgh in search of liquid as well as cultural refreshment is confronted by a galaxy of pubs, more than enough to satisfy the most fastidious of enthusiasts so inclined. They have intriguing names to choose from, such as The Sheep Heid Inn at Duddingston, The Jolly Judge off the Lawnmarket, Sandy Bell’s in Forrest road, The Last Drop in the Grassmarket, The Golf Tavern at Bruntsfield Links and The King’s Wark in Leith. Many enjoy their own particular reputation. In this constellation, one that is frequently mentioned as possessing special distinction is the Cafe Royal.