The Cloisters

26 Brougham Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9JH

Telephone 0131 221 9997
Opening times Mon–Thu noon–midnight; Fri/Sat noon–1am; Sun 12.30pm–midnight
Bar open Mon–Thu noon–midnight; Fri/Sat noon–1am; Sun 12:30pm–midnight.
Food served Tue–-Sat noon–-9pm; Sun 12.30–-9pm. [No food Mon.]
Average price £12 (lunch); £12 (evening meal)
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The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

Beer is now the only religion left in Cloisters: a dark sanctum of guest cask ales, and a shrine to craft beer bottles from Alloa to Australia. And lo, all else was sacrificed to the holy trinity of malt, yeast and hops. Once the token, no-nonsense pies and burgers were, at best, salty, fatty foils to the beer (or alms for the starving), and vegetarian options this former church’s only grudging concession to the modern world. Hark, for now a new prophet, cometh to the kitchen, and maybe miracles will be revealed to the faithful. But pilgrims flock here in multitudes for the beer, not the food. Beer is the word, the beer is good, and all were well pleased. Amen.

High point: Beer miraculously changing every week
Low point: Grot

Number of wines sold by the glass: 6
Provides: Vegetarian options (at least ¼ main courses), Gluten-free options, Wheelchair access, Free wi-fi
Music on stereo: No music ever
Capacity: 40
Largest group: 8
Open since: 1998
House wine: £11 per bottle

Comments & ratings

3. jnbeck74 – 17 Jul 2012, 10:08pm The Cloisters Report: I love the Cloisters; drink here as often as possible. However, despite a fantastic atmosphere and a brilliant selection of beer, the food today was HORRENDOUS. Overcooked, dry, and tasteless. If this is what we can expect with the new extended food service hours, then they shouldn't bother. And when a customer complains, at least apologise for the bad experience. An "oh" is not sufficient.

2. Nicci – 15 Jul 2012, 7:12pm The Cloisters Report: I have heard a lot of good things about the burgers here and wasn´t disappointed.
The fish and chips looked also great, the young man behind the bar was funny and friendly.

1. kongo2 – 17 Feb 2012, 1:54pm Report: I have always thought that Cloisters was one of Edinburgh's best. I had never been for food before today and I wasn't disappointed. However, my only complaint would be with the grumpy girl working at the bar. She seemed miserable and unapproachable and definitely created a "vibe". Fortunately, another young lady working there, who seemed to be doing all of the work, was lovely and friendly. So it wasn't a complete disaster. It's a shame that one person can cause such an atmosphere. It almost made me not want to go back....almost.

Average rating 3.5/5 from 2 reviews of The Cloisters.

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The Cloisters

Comments & ratings

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