One of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhood cocktail bars has unveiled a £100,000 summer makeover, timed to coincide with the grand reopening of the King’s Theatre on Leven Street in Tollcross.
Located directly opposite the landmark theatre, The Blackbird has introduced a contemporary new look alongside refreshed food and drinks menus ahead of the Festival season.
The venue, which is known for its garden terrace, offers a green urban escape for guests looking to enjoy warm summer evenings in the city. Its interior has now been transformed with a mid-century-inspired scheme featuring plaster pink, terracotta and blue-green colour drenching, complemented by internal tiling, globe lighting and pop art-inspired details.
The investment marks the first stage of wider developments planned for The Blackbird across 2026, with a second phase due to take place later this year.
As part of the revamp, the bar team has created a new summer cocktail menu. New serves include the Joggling Board, made with rum, orange liqueur, sweet Italian vermouth, grapefruit and turmeric, and the Kingston Dove, combining tequila, guava, pineapple, lime and sparkling water.
Guests can also choose from a new frozen house Martini, zero-proof cocktails, and a selection of alcohol-free beers and ciders.
The Blackbird’s new all-day summer food menu includes whole burrata with honeydew melon salsa and prosciutto crisps, alongside pork belly served with curried cauliflower, green apple and honey.
A staff favourite is the fried chicken with house peach hot sauce and fermented pineapple relish. New vegan options have also been added, including the house Spa Salad, made with broccoli, strawberry, avocado, chickpeas and kale.
Colin Church, managing director and co-owner of Edinburgh bar operator and special events company Big Red Teapot, which runs The Blackbird, said: “We’re so excited to be showcasing our bold new look in time for the Festival and to coincide with the grand reopening of the beautiful King’s Theatre, located just opposite on Leven Street.
“Following a major £100,000 investment, we’re elevating the customer experience even further with an exciting new interior makeover, as well as new food and cocktails menus.
“We look forward to welcoming back local neighbourhood customers, as well as festival goers and King’s Theatre audiences this summer and beyond.”
The Blackbird is also available for exclusive hire and events, having previously hosted theatre and film premieres, weddings and private parties.
Open seven days a week from 12pm until late, The Blackbird is located at 37–39 Leven Street, Edinburgh. It is part of Big Red Teapot, which also operates The Voyage of Buck on William Street in the city’s West End.
