Bursting with charm and old world aesthetics, last weekend, Edinburgh had its first dose of Irish hospitality as The Boston Bar opened its doors at 104 Hanover Street.
Having welcomed its first guests on Friday, 25 October, the fresh new venue offers the city the warm and friendly vibes of an authentic Irish bar with fresh, modern industrial interiors inspired by watering holes in Boston and New York, and locals and visitors alike now have a new home to enjoy live sport, intimate gigs, world-class beers and a laidback bite to eat in a beautifully unique setting.
Brought to the Capital by the team behind Freddy’s, the popular late night party parlour located on nearby Frederick Street, The Boston Bar has been extensively renovated over the past six months, and the two-level venue – previously Bar Soba – has been developed in collaboration with ARKA Design Studio and Too Gallus, with no expense spared on the flawless Instagram-worthy decor and design.
Drawing inspiration from incredible venues in major cities around the world, The Boston Bar recreates the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional tavern, and features classic subway tiles, exposed red brick, vintage lighting, wrought iron railings that give a nod to Boston’s iconic Beacon Hill, and eye-catching trinkets and artefacts that were sourced from auction houses, salvage yards and dealers during trips to Ireland.
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And it’s not just the interiors that have been carefully crafted. Behind the bar, visitors will find an extensive range of drinks including 40 draught and bottled beers, stout and cider, and a range of Irish pours.
Plus, the perfectly crafted food menu features American classics with an Emerald Isle twist, including light bites like Guinness battered scampi and chicken wings with Jameson whiskey glaze, and larger portions such as dry aged Irish rump steak, vegan-friendly potato scone tacos, and slow-cooked bourbon brisket.
Plus, no Ireland-inspired menu would be complete without the iconic Irish spice bag, complete with crispy smashed potatoes, salt and chilli chicken, green peppers and onions – you’ve seen the videos on TikTok, now try one for yourself!
Open seven days a week until 1am, The Boston Bar provides the perfect spot for gatherings with friends, family and colleagues, while big screens dotted around the venue ensure there’s no better place to watch live sport. What’s more, with private nooks featuring personal TVs, outdoor seating and live music, and smart interactive darts boards located in the second downstairs bar, there’s something for everyone.
“We’re thrilled to introduce The Boston Bar to Edinburgh,” said owner Edward Fox, who also recently completed a major renovation of Freddy’s to keep up with unprecedented demand.
“Our goal is to create a space that embodies the welcoming spirit of the Irish bars in Boston and New York – places where families and friends come together to enjoy good food, great drinks and even better company.
“We hope to offer a unique experience that adds a new dimension to Edinburgh’s vibrant hospitality scene, providing a perfect spot for both casual gatherings and lively evenings.
“The Boston Bar will be a place to enjoy ‘a double dose of original sin’, as the Irish would say, and we can’t wait to welcome more friends old and new through the door.”
With The Boston Bar providing a more relaxed setting, and Freddy’s offering a high-energy atmosphere, the sister venues complement each other perfectly – and with just a five-minute walk between the two, guests can start their evening with a meal or drinks at The Boston Bar before heading straight for Freddy’s to keep the party going until 3am.
Plus, for those looking to add a little yee-haw to their evening, the team recently opened Westside Rodeo – a country-themed pop-up bar currently open at 51A George Street for a limited time only!
The exciting concept bar boasts a fully immersive saloon-style interior that instantly transports guests to the heart of a Western movie, with everyone handed a complimentary cowboy hat as they come through the door.
As well as themed cocktails, the bar has a wide selection of premium beers and tequilas, all with a distinctive Westside twist that reflects the bold and adventurous spirit of the venue.
For those looking to step behind the bar, the team is continuing to recruit for various positions, including management, supervisors, chefs, bar staff, waiting staff, and bar backs, offering competitive rates of pay, commission and perks, as well as opportunities for career progression within the company.
