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Whighams Wine Cellars
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
rusticlocal-crowdcozy
About the Vibe
Whighams has been a steady hand on the Edinburgh wine scene since 1983, and it shows. You'll find a no-nonsense, convivial spot where the focus is squarely on great seafood and a wine list that actually makes sense. It's not the flashiest place in New Town, but if you're after honest food, knowledgeable staff, and a room that feels like it's been lived in (in the best way), this is your spot.
Known For
- •Cullen skink
- •fresh seafood
- •extensive wine list
- •local beer and whisky
Best For
date-nightgroup dinnerswine tasting
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 8, 2026
A wine bar with heart and history
Whighams feels like a piece of Edinburgh history that's still very much alive. You walk in and it's that classic wine bar atmosphere—wooden tables, dim lighting, and a room full of locals who clearly know their way around a glass. The seafood is the star here; the Cullen skink is thick, creamy, and exactly what you want on a rainy night, and the fish and chips are properly crisp without being greasy.
The wine list is where they really earn their keep. It's not just a long list of expensive bottles; there's real thought behind it, with plenty of options by the glass that won't break the bank. The staff seem genuinely passionate about what they're selling, which makes the whole experience feel more like a chat with a friend than a sales pitch. It's not the most glamorous spot in the city, but that's part of its charm.