The Giles Street venue is the original home of the of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, which for those that don't know, bottles single casks of whisky from 132 distilleries around the world (they do have Japanese and Welsh distilleries on the list. You do need to be a member to visit, although if you ask around Edinburgh, you'll soon find someone who is a member and they can sign you in as a guest.\n\nThe bar area is like a traditional members only room from the past with comfortable chairs and a roaring fire. Try and go in December and the feeling gets even better with a beautiful Christmas tree in the corner. There are also a number of private rooms that host the societies tasting events.\n\nIf you don't like whisky, it is still worth a visit just for the quality of the food that is on offer. Unlike the 28 Queen Street venue of the society it isn't fine dining but it is still great food in a bar environment. The vension burgers are to die for and the haggis, neeps and tatties is one of the best you will have.\n\nIf you do like whisky, ask behind the bar for advice on what is good and don't fall into the trap of asking for a whisky from a particular distillery because you like the supermarket version. This whisky is individual to the cask which is half the surprise as you taste a new one.
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