The Starbank (or the Starry as we all know it) is nestled on the shoreline in the North of the city, overlooking the Forth towards Fife in the quaint harbour area of Newhaven.
It's an old house, having been constructed in 1810, but despite being an Inn no longer offers rooms.
It's a cosy hostelry with a local clientele that won't turn their heads and fall silent as you enter. It features a fine selection of ales and wines as well as a pretty decent pub grub menu with a lovely dining area in a conservatory through the back of the pub. Scots classics like Haggis neeps and tatties feature prominently.
There's no loud background music but in one of the 'wings' you'll be able to watch live sports on their large screen TV. But crucially, that doesn't overwhelm proceedings.
It's pretty active with occasional bands and live music plus a regular quiz night but for me it's just a great place to hang out after a stroll from the City Centre or after a visit to Leith. Oh, and it's dog-friendly, too.
Find your way with 138 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"S. Luca" has been one of my favorite places in Edinburgh since I was a kid. What they're famous for is their own brand of ice cream - and I love it!
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"Green. Leith" is a refreshing and colourful addition to the well-known street in Edinburgh. They really take green plants & accessories to a new level!
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I have to confess I've walked past the spot thousands of times before I actually realised it was anything to pay attention to!
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The "Leith Victoria Swim Centre" in Edinburgh is a beautiful pool surrounded by an ornade, Baroque, cast-iron colonnade. Well worth a visit!
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"Union Brew Lab" Edinburgh is one of the original hipster coffee shops in the city. JK Rowling hasn't written a book here yet!
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"Manna House Bakery" in South Queensferry in Edinburgh has great views over the Forth Rail Bridge. Come here for the super value-for-money homemade food!
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Craiglockhart Hill is one of Edinburgh's 7 hills. In contrast to Calton Hill, Castle Hill and Arthur's Seat, even many locals can't name this one!
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The zoo is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. Next to it is "Corstorphine Hill" that's in my opinion much more interesting to explore!
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"The Jazz Bar" Edinburgh: a lively subterranean music club that really comes alive after midnight. I really like the crowd on weekends & their caipirinha!
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"The Royal Oak" is the beating heart of Edinburgh's traditional music scene. This is a gem of a pub to visit, and I like coming on Friday/Saturday night.
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