The Lot

I love the multi-​functionality of this place, which incorporates a bistro, venue and exhibition space all rolled into one.
I actually went along to a bag-​making class with one of my friends, and even though it’s not really my thing, I actually found myself moderately enjoying it. Everyone seemed to be a bit more established than me, and my stitching resembled something a five year old would have done, with his eyes shut. There is a proper class which runs for a few weeks, I think it’s already started, which costs £100 for the duration.
All in all, a good place to visit. They usually have exhibitions and stuff running, so check the site for up and coming events.

I haven’t been to the Lot for the food or coffee. Actually the Lot holds every Tuesday for the past year and a bit a grand ceilidh. Ceilidh is basically Scottish barn dance. Even if you don’t know the steps, there are multiple dances and they walk you through them at the beginning of each song.
This one is clearly geared the tourists, as their are so many hostels in the area. However, this gives it a layed back atmosphere and no angry people if you get your steps mixed up– everyone is here to have a good time dancing the night away.
Entrance is about 5 pounds. The only thing I can really hold against this place is that the dance floor is tiny for such exciting dancing.
If you visit Scotland you must try out a ceilidh! Even if you have two left feet like me, it’s the most authentic fun you could have!

The Lot Bistro offers so much to entice customers in — everything from its location in the Grass Market under the castle to the promise of art works and performances upstairs in the older part of the building.
The Lot Bistro, however, fails to live up to expectations. While I had been to the Lot prior to my latest experience, this was for a quick snoop around the gallery and a cup of tea. This time, I thought I would go for lunch to give the place a real try.
To be honest, I wish I hadnt — food tasted like anything I could have microwaved at home (but far less of it), and while it was not that expensive, did leave a bitter taste in my mouth — both metaphorically and literally.
The Lot Bistro then is a nice place for coffe and culture, but not for a LOT more. (Heehee).

Food was bland, conpletely uninteresting. Chowder had two muscles and some prawns, hardly seasoned. Sausages were tough and poussin dry. So disappointing when we had eaten so well over the rest of the weekend. Staff were friendly but not once were we asked if our meal was alright whilst eating. They seemed in a hurry even though at least 5 waiting staff on at 5pm. Will not be back.

this place was FABULOUS!
its a chic and very VERY relaxing environment with wonderful art and music!
i originally wanted a chicken liver salad, but they were out of it so i thought i’d try their pigeon breast salad. the waitor came back and told me they had just got in some freshly smoked duck and if i wanted that insteas. i couldnt’ decide so they made me a specialty salad with both!
probably the best salad i have ever had in my entire life! (pigeon breast was ok… kinda like unsalted ham) the Smoked duck was to Die for!
my Papa had a lamb stew with a very tender and flavorful helpin’ of lamb in it!
a Must!

I have only experienced The Lot as a live music venue and it’s fantastic. The venue is quite small but has a balcony so you can watch and listen from above too. Downstairs is usually set out in cabaret style with tables and chairs and is a lovely place too listen to music with a glass of wine. Unfortunately they don’t serve food at the bar, just crisps and chocolate. But then you can eat downstairs in the restaurant first. A fab wee venue, if you like jazz!

We happened upon The Lot the first day we where in Edinburgh. Having left our stuff at the B&B we heading down to grab a quick starbucks and while there picked up a leaflet about it being ‘Jazz Week’ — We perused the listing and decided on a crazy looking fella called Fabian, who was playing at The Lot that night. So after a brief look around the castle and munching on some good food we heading down. The place was really good, quite packed but had atmosphere. The music was great and the wine went down a treat! Would love to go back one day.

One of the best places I’ve eaten in Edinburgh, The Lot is a small, relaxing restaurant for many ocassions. The food is top quality and the staff provide excellent service. Great for a small social ocassion. It is very chilled out and also very agreeable in taste. The food is fantastic, I have never been let down!

A converted church that sits at the end of the grassmarket, the interior is instantly calming as it’s quite spacious, and a lovely blue colour. You come away feeling as though you have been to a really good dinner party, after experiencing personable service, and really simple, yet elegant food that has just been cooked, presented well and tastes yummy! It is a non-​profit organisation that donates its proceeds to charity, so go on, order that pudding!