No 1 High Street

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Anyone who lives in Edinburgh will tell you that perhaps the city's busiest dining thoroughfare, at least during the summer peak season, is also its least inspiring. There are a few gems on the Royal Mile, but statistically you're more likely to venture into a factory for the recycling of currency exchange cash than you are a place worth recommending. Enviably addressed and full of potential, the corner property No.1 High Street (formerly the Tass) has recently undergone extensive redecoration, retaining the feel of a well-used local pub alongside the gleaming light fittings and stylised floral wallpaper. The new regime and a brighter atmosphere also means a friendly welcome, and this is perhaps its strongest selling point alongside the extensive drinks selection, with three guest ales, three permanent ales, one cider on tap and a fridge full of bottled beers complementing around 40 whiskies. The pub food isn't so much of a head-turner, with a well-seasoned but potato-heavy fishcake served alongside a reasonable home-made tartar sauce, while the very presence of a doughy puff pastry lid on a steak pie is enough to sag your shoulders, no matter that the dish is meaty and the ale gravy good and rich.