Encore Bars Group is set to open a second Edinburgh location of The Boston Bar next month, bringing the Irish-American concept to the city’s Old Town for the first time. The venue, located on Niddry Street, will operate as a late-night neighbourhood bar with a focus on live music and sport. It is due to open on 20 February following the refurbishment of the former Globe Bar.
Encore Bars Group also runs late-night spot Freddy’s and Westside Rodeo on George Street, as well as the flagship Boston Bar on Hanover Street.
While the Old Town site will share the same relaxed, sociable feel as its sister venue, its layout gives it a different character. The company say that the series of low-level rooms and two large arches, means the interior lends itself to cosy snugs and smaller spaces in keeping with the traditional Irish bars that inspired the concept.
The fit-out sees Encore reunite with design teams ARKA and Too Gallus, who also worked on the Hanover Street venue. The team has once again sourced materials from auction houses, salvage yards and independent makers across the UK and the US with some details, including a custom-colour subway tile, have been directly influenced by design elements spotted in New York bars during the team’s research trips.
Edward Fox, Director of Encore Bars, said, “What excites us most is seeing the space come to life and become part of the Old Town community. There’s something special about opening a venue in such a historic part of the city and giving it a new role as a modern gathering place.”
The bar will serve a wide range of Irish and American beers on draught, with new supplier partnerships planned. The food menu will echo Hanover Street’s laid-back style with loaded toasties, bar snacks, and Baileys soft-serve swirls.
