The Bon Vivant
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Nestled on Thistle Street in Edinburgh's elegant New Town, The Bon Vivant is a cherished bar and bistro blending Gallic charm with Scottish flair. Warm candlelit interiors, wood-paneled walls, and a cozy atmosphere invite lingering over inventive cocktails, extensive wines, and bistro-style dishes crafted from local ingredients. Opened in 2008, it offers a refined yet approachable escape for food and drink lovers, with creative mixology and simple, flavorful fare like steaks, seafood, and desserts in a sophisticated setting.
A brief summary to The Bon Vivant
- 55 Thistle St, Edinburgh, EH2 1DY, GB
- +441312253275
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 4 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 4 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Opt for the rotating cocktail specials like Wing Tip for a bold taste adventure crafted by expert mixologists.
- Reserve a curtained table for added privacy during intimate dinners or lively gatherings.
- Pair bistro dishes with wines by the glass from the extensive list featuring local and Champagne selections.
- Visit midweek for a quieter experience, or weekends for the full energetic bar atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Bon Vivant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Bon Vivant
Thistle Street Hideaway
Tucked away on the refined Thistle Street in Edinburgh's New Town, The Bon Vivant embodies the essence of a true bon vivant—a lover of fine food and drink. This unassuming Georgian facade opens into a world of warmth and sophistication, where soft candlelight dances across polished wood panels and intimate seating nooks draped with subtle curtains for privacy. Since its debut in 2008, the venue has cultivated a reputation as a neighborhood gem, drawing those seeking respite from the city's bustle in a space that feels both timeless and inviting. The layout flows seamlessly from a lively bar area to more secluded dining spots, encouraging patrons to settle in for an evening of indulgence. High ceilings and subtle background music enhance the relaxed yet elegant vibe, making it ideal for transitioning from aperitifs to full meals.Candlelit Bistro Ambiance
Step inside, and the air carries hints of fresh herbs, grilled meats, and citrus zest from craft cocktails. The decor evokes a classic French bistro with ersatz traditional elements—think exposed brick accents, leather banquettes, and flickering candles that cast a golden glow. This comforting aesthetic avoids modern starkness, prioritizing coziness and intimacy, perfect for quiet conversations or celebratory gatherings. The bar dominates one end, stocked with an impressive array of spirits, while the dining area features tables spaced for comfort. It's a place where the hum of laughter mingles with the clink of glasses, creating an atmosphere alive with subtle energy.Award-Winning Mixology
The Bon Vivant's bar is its beating heart, helmed by skilled mixologists who craft adventurous cocktails from a rotating menu. Signature drinks like the Wing Tip—blending single-barrel Kentucky bourbon, Italian bittersweet liqueur, Venezuelan rum, fig liqueur, and bitters—showcase bold flavor profiles. Classics are executed flawlessly, but the house specials invite experimentation, with ingredients balanced for complexity and refreshment. An extensive wine list, with many options by the glass, pairs seamlessly with the food, alongside a curated selection of beers and Champagnes. This dedication to drinks elevates casual visits into memorable experiences.Seasonal Bistro Fare
The kitchen focuses on simple, well-executed dishes using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Expect bistro staples reimagined: tender picanha steaks, fresh bouillabaisse brimming with seafood, lamb entrées, chicken supreme, and delicate desserts like hazelnut cake or panna cotta. Small plates such as rabbit, salmon, and beef starters allow for sharing or light bites. Menus change with the seasons, emphasizing freshness and restraint—nibbles to mains that satisfy without overwhelming. The result is hearty yet refined Scottish fare with Gallic influences, designed for savoring alongside drinks.Enduring Legacy
From its 2008 opening, The Bon Vivant has expanded into a mini-empire, spawning sister spots like Bon Vivant’s Companion, recognized among the World’s 50 Best. Yet this original location retains its intimate charm, serving as a cornerstone of Edinburgh's vibrant food and drink scene. It stands as a testament to refined taste in the heart of the New Town, where every visit promises discovery.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.2 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Melville Monument
0.4 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.5 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.5 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.5 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Lady Stair's Close
0.6 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The Writers' Museum
0.6 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Waverley Steps
0.6 km
Discover Waverley Steps in Edinburgh, a historic staircase linking the Old and New Towns, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Lady Stair's House
0.6 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.6 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Scottish National War Memorial
0.6 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
Milne's Court
0.6 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
15 Charlotte Square
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.6 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Edinburgh New Town
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
Rose St
0.2 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Heriot Row
0.2 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Dome
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Princes St
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
Floral Clock
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
Panoramic view Castle
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
The Oxford Bar
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
The Royal Scottish Academy
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Princes Street Gardens
0.3 km
Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
National Galleries of Scotland: National
0.4 km
Explore centuries of Scottish and international art in Edinburgh’s iconic National Gallery, featuring masterpieces from Vermeer to the Glasgow Boys.
Essential places to dine
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Contini George Street
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
The Table
0.3 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.3 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Badger & Co
0.3 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Amarone
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.5 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Lady Libertine
0.5 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
The Magnum
0.5 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.5 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edinburgh Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.3 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Unicorn Antiques
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.6 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.6 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
One World Shop
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
The Court Curio Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
House of Scotland
0.6 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bon Vivant
0.0 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Thistle Street Bar
0.1 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.1 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Grand Cru
0.2 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Bramble Bar
0.2 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Copper Blossom
0.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.3 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Never Really Here
0.3 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Panda & Sons
0.5 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Nightcap
0.5 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.6 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Last Word
0.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.7 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Opal Lounge
0.1 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.1 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
0.2 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Club Tropicana
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Bongo Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.9 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
1.0 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
