Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Tavern has officially reopened its doors after an extended closure following a fryer fire in its kitchen back in February 2023.
The Iona Pub Partnership described the closure as ‘undoubtedly a challenging period for the tavern and its loyal customers’, and stressed that every effort had been made to ensure the tavern is ‘not only restored but enhanced’ for future generations of pubgoers to enjoy.
“After months of hard work and dedication, the team has successfully restored the establishment to its former glory,” said IPP. “The building has undergone a complete rebuild, with careful attention to retaining its historic character, while also introducing essential improvements.
IPP business development manager, Jim McDougall, continued: “We’re excited to welcome everyone back to the Royal Mile Tavern.
“The guys have taken a great care in preserving the venue’s charm, and we hope guests will enjoy the improved comfort and upgraded facilities, all while still experiencing the familiar warmth of the tavern that has always made it a special place.”
McDougall said that the Tavern’s kitchen had been modernized, ‘future-proofing the building for years to come’, and a new bar gantry has been installed, made from reclaimed materials.
Along with the revamped interior, the Royal Mile Tavern has relaunched with an updated menu of traditional pub grub, and an exciting range of local dishes, served alongside craft beers, wines and the Tavern’s ever-popular whisky flights.
The re-opening also sees the return of the venue’s live music offering, and a new team of twelve members of staff, bringing ‘skills and enthusiasm to help continue the tavern’s legacy of excellence’.
Looking ahead, that team is excited for an eventful 2025. Bruce Taverns operations manager, Simon Rankin, said: “From Finn Russell at the Autumn Internationals to the long-awaited return of Oasis, we’re eager to host fans visiting the city, provide the perfect atmosphere for cheering on their teams with great food, drinks, and company.
“The Royal Mile Tavern is once again open and ready to serve the Edinburgh community, marking the start of a new chapter for this historic venue.”
