Whirlybird Modern Tavern Opens on Victoria Street this Monday
A new all-day café, bar and restaurant called Whirlybird opens at 36-38 Victoria Street on Monday 18 May. It takes over the former Maison Bleue site in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The venue opens from 9am until late, seven days a week. Reservations are now open via the official website.
Whirlybird spans two levels with four interconnected rooms and seats up to 100 people, including a standalone bar (up to 15 seats) for counter dining, apéritifs or nightcaps. A semi-private dining room for up to 16 guests is also available.
Original features from the 250-year-old building include a listed spiral staircase, curved stone arches, and preserved old wooden doorways, paired with modern elements such as velvet and leather banquettes, brass accents, an expansive wooden counter, and local bespoke carpentry. Large windows give natural light during the day.
Led by operator Ash Bairstow, the kitchen is headed by chef Lucia Gregusova (ex-Hawksmoor). The menu uses Scottish produce for modern bistro dishes. Highlights include:
- Whipped crowdie with heritage radish
- Whole grilled fish with brown butter
- Caper and lemon, seared flat iron steak
- Shetland mussels
- Desserts such as date-and-brown-butter madeleines or burnt cheesecake.
Drinks Menu
Drinks come from head of drinks Jono McDowell (ex-Panda & Sons).
Signature cocktails feature the Freezer Martini (Tobermory gin, Cocchi Americano and seasonal olive oil), Summer in Spey and Whirlybird Highball.
There’s also a concise wine list, local beers from Pilot, Newbarns, and Thistly Cross, and a strong whisky selection. General manager Matt Donaldson (ex-The Kitchin Group) leads front-of-house.
- Practical info Location: 36-38 Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2HG (between Grassmarket and George IV Bridge).
- Best for: All-day dining, pre-theatre drinks, or a break from the busy street.
- Bookings: whirlybirdedinburgh.co.uk