The Boston Bar in Edinburgh, owned by Encore Bars, has quickly become a staple in the city’s bar scene since opening almost a year ago. Now, the popular venue has taken things to the next level, quite literally, with the recent launch of its basement level, aptly named Downtown.
This new addition isn’t just more space – it’s a whole new experience. Designed to celebrate Irish heritage and Boston’s iconic bar culture, Downtown offers an atmospheric blend of rugged character, warm hospitality, and thoughtful design.
Weekly traditional music sessions and performances from Irish comedians promise to keep the energy vibrant, while the space also accommodates private events, live sport screenings, and informal get-togethers.
Tucked beneath Hanover Street, the design of this new basement venue fuses Bostonian grit with Celtic charm. The area is cleverly divided into distinct zones designed for mood and movement without sacrificing intimacy.
Whether guests are drawn to the casual buzz of the traditional wooden bar, the seclusion of private nooks, or the communal atmosphere of the main area – with its long high tables and studded green leather-topped barstools – there’s a place for everyone.
The foundational textures of the space immediately establish its character. Exposed sandstone and brick walls give the venue a raw, historic feel, softened by a rich palette of design elements such as the deep green painted walls and ceiling, warm timber accents, polished wooden tables, and striking decorative features.
The contrast between rugged surfaces and refined materials creates a compelling visual experience that’s both timeless and contemporary. What truly sets Downtown apart though is the ambiance. It feels instantly welcoming, with every detail suggesting a story or memory.
The walls are lined with salvaged treasures – vintage mirrors, old sports equipment, rusted enamel signage, and quirky bric-a-brac sourced from across Ireland, the UK, and America. Each object feels deliberately placed, but not overly styled. Lighting also plays a major role in setting the mood. Vintage-style brass pendant lights and industrial glass globes cast warm, amber glows throughout the space.
These are punctuated by cheeky neon signs that read “Mammy Approved” and “We Don’t Do Quiet Nights,” adding a splash of modern humour to the vintage aesthetic. Handlettered wall art and classic Guinness branding help break up the heavier 
materials with touches of wit and familiarity. Furniture throughout the venue draws inspiration from traditional pubs while remaining clean and timeless in style.
The mix includes Bentwood café chairs, barrel stools, and fluted banquettes, all topped with buttoned leather to create cosy and comfortable seating zones. This thoughtful variation in seating invites guests to settle in, whether they’re popping in for a pint or spending the whole evening.
The space is also equipped with TVs showing all sports, including Irish sports such as Gaelic football and hurling. A standout feature of the space is the snug area – a charming alcove centred around a traditional exposed brick fireplace, framed with timber.
This cosy corner is perfect for relaxing with friends and features a vintage mirror from “Stewart’s Scottish Distilleries” and a crate of Carroll’s Petrol bottles. These pieces aren’t just eyecatching – they serve as tactile reminders of history and heritage, grounding the space in a sense of place.
Encore Bars owner Edward Fox told DRAM, “During trips to Donegal, Ireland, where we’ve had the privilege of visiting my wife’s family, we’ve drawn inspiration from the warm, lively bars that are at the heart of Irish communities. Those bars, full of character and charm, have influenced the design of Downtown, giving it a true sense of place.
“We’ve worked closely with our design team to create a versatile space that reflects this spirit, featuring antiques from the UK and Ireland, including pieces from auction houses and salvage yards, as well as a few American artefacts that pay homage to Boston Bar’s heritage.
“Whether you’re here to watch sport, enjoy a quiet drink, or soak in the atmosphere, Downtown is the perfect space. We can’t wait to welcome customers to Downtown at Boston Bar with a Céad míle fáilte.”
Downtown at the Boston Bar is a masterclass in atmospheric design – layered, nostalgic, and unapologetically full of character. It’s not just a basement or a bar, it’s a mood board brought vividly to life. There’s something emotional at its core, drawing on memory, place, and comfort. I, for one, can’t wait to grab a pint of Guinness and experience it myself sometime soon.
