Of course, too much can leave a bad taste in the mouth or make you feel bad – familiar pitfalls for those of us who enjoy a pint or two. But what if having an honest pint not only made you feel good, but did good for other people too?. That is the simple aim behind the Southside Social, which has just opened on Buccleuch Street on the former site of the Moo Bar and Meadow Bar.
Such a cute place with lots of seating! Two levels that are super cozy, tables and couches to sit at. Great place for studying, very quiet during the day
An eclectic hideaway between the meadows and university, and a perfect place to collect your thoughts, or write them down, or share them excitedly with friends. Spread over two levels, with three rooms, and cosy corners to hide away in, you are almost certain to find a niche to fit your mood, from dark and moody to light filled, Scandinavian peacefulness.
This is my first visit here, though I've spent many hours in its sister bars: Sofi's Leith, Victoria's, Boda, Joseph Pierce... Given that, I can't say what the atmosphere is *normally* like, but on this Wednesday afternoon, there is a quiet hum of conversation, enough for the place to feel alive, but not enough to interrupt study or a good book. It feels comfortable and welcoming; the girl behind the bar was friendly, makes a nice coffee and knows her beers.
Speaking of beer, there is a small but decent selection in bottles and a few on draught, not quite enough choice to qualify as a craft beer pub, but more than enough to make even a picky drinker fairly happy --- I'm picky, but finding Old Engine Oil makes me happy. For those with more sophistication than I, there is what looks to be a very impressive cocktail list, so they seem to have both ends of the spectrum covered.
The music was understated but interesting, with a hint of a Swedish bent, well chosen to suit a laid back afternoon. There is a good selection of interesting board games, both traditional and modern on the bookshelf and more than enough space to play them, though on this occasion no one was. Between the music, the games, the improv artwork, the posters for cult films and television, and reserved signs for the Harry Potter society, I'd say that this is a pretty open, inclusive, friendly sort of a place.
Oh, it's also dog friendly, so even though it's my first visit, I think it's earned its five stars :-)
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