Whirlybird brings an all-day modern tavern to Victoria Street in Edinburgh's Old Town

One of the Old Town's most photographed streets gained a new place to linger this year when Whirlybird opened on Victoria Street in May. Led by experienced operator Ash Bairstow, formerly of Herringbone, it has been created as an all-day modern tavern that pairs quietly Scottish food with a thoughtful drinks list.

The name comes from the Scots nickname for the spinning sycamore seed, a nod to the building's heritage and to the relaxed mood the team wanted to create. The building itself is around 250 years old, and many original features have been kept, including a listed spiral staircase, curved stone arches and statement wooden doorways. They sit alongside velvet and leather banquettes, a wooden counter, brass details and bespoke carpentry by local craftspeople.

Whirlybird is split across two levels and four connected rooms, seating up to 100 guests. There is a standalone bar for counter dining, aperitifs and nightcaps, and a semi-private dining room for up to 16. Large windows look out over Victoria Street, filling the rooms with daylight.

The day starts with coffee and pastries, then moves on to modern takes on classic bistro dishes. The kitchen is led by chef Lucia Gregusova, formerly of Hawksmoor, and sources from local producers including Freedom Bakery, Castle Game, Scottish Seafood Co. and Milk & Honey ice creams. Opening dishes included whipped crowdie with heritage radish and fermented spiced honey, whole grilled fish with brown butter, caper and lemon, Shetland mussels, and date and brown butter madeleines with toffee sauce.

Drinks are overseen by head of drinks Jono McDowell, formerly of Panda & Sons. The signature cocktails lean on Scottish spirits, and there are local beers from Pilot, Newbarns and Thistly Cross alongside a whisky list drawn from across Scotland and a wine list with a rotating selection. General manager Matt Donaldson, formerly of The Kitchin Group, leads front of house.

Speaking at the launch, Ash Bairstow said the team was delighted to bring the historic building back to life, describing the Old Town as a magical place to be. The List also picked out Whirlybird as one of the new openings to watch, noting its pastries and coffee at sun-up and nightcaps and a Scottish produce-led menu at sundown.

For locals, it offers a calmer seat away from the Victoria Street crowds, whether for breakfast, a long lunch or a late drink.

Menus, opening times and table bookings are on the Whirlybird website.