3 Old Monks is a pub in Leith, Edinburgh. Rated 4.3 stars from 915 Google reviews. Known for cocktail programme and staff warmth and service. Best for groups and parties and sports events. Price range: £20–30.
Rankings updated May 2026
3 Old Monks
Across 911 Google reviews, 82% gave four or five stars.
Quick Verdict
A reinvigorated Leith pub where steampunk charm, accomplished cocktails, and warm staff make it worth seeking out, whether solo or with a crowd.
You want a genuinely friendly neighbourhood pub with serious cocktails, good food, and room for groups—all within walking distance of the Leith waterfront.
About 3 Old Monks
3 Old Monks is a recently reinvigorated Leith pub that has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite for its eclectic steampunk-inspired atmosphere and genuinely warm hospitality. The space punches above its weight: intimate enough for a quiet midweek drink, yet spacious enough to host 40-person functions with ease, complete with a big pool table and multiple screens for live sport. The kitchen delivers surprisingly accomplished food—crispy pork belly, Nduja Mac and Cheese, beef Sunday roast, and haggis burgers feature prominently in praise—while the drinks programme spans an impressive cocktail menu (Spicy Margarita, Clarified Pina Colada, Whiskey Sour all noted), a curated wine list, and a solid beer selection. Staff consistently earn five-star mentions for genuine friendliness and attentiveness, even during busy service. Dogs are welcome, kids thrive here, and the location—80 yards from the Leith waterfront—makes it an easy find for locals and visitors alike. Under new management, the pub has shed its previous identity and emerged as a destination rather than a default.
3 Old Monks is the neighbourhood spot done right — unhurried, unpretentious, with a wine list that gives it an edge over most of its category.
What Stands Out
Cocktail programme
Multiple 5-star reviews highlight delightful cocktails and an extensive menu; Spicy Margarita, Clarified Pina Colada, and Whiskey Sour specifically praised.
Staff warmth and service
Consistent 5-star praise for friendly, welcoming, efficient staff; one reviewer noted staff 'saved' a difficult outing with genuine care.
Atmosphere and design
Steampunk-inspired décor with copper apparatus throughout; described as cosy, quirky, and welcoming; ideal for both intimate drinks and group events.
In Their Own Words
Review highlights surfaced by Google, in the language they were written
“We ordered the crispy pork belly, salmon, chicken sliders and the card.”
“Service was great the food was really tasty.....Staff very friendly.”
“Nice place, good and quick service, variety of beer and drinks.”Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
Common Questions
How consistently good is 3 Old Monks?
Across 911 Google reviews, 82% of visitors gave four or five stars — placing 3 Old Monks among Leith's most reliably rated pubs.
Do you need to book 3 Old Monks in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended for meals — 3 Old Monks is a popular choice in Leith and tends to fill quickly, particularly at weekends.
Does 3 Old Monks have outdoor seating?
Yes — 3 Old Monks offers outdoor seating. Outdoor tables are popular during warmer months so arriving early or booking ahead helps.
Is 3 Old Monks family friendly?
3 Old Monks accommodates families — Google visitors note facilities for children, and the casual atmosphere suits all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions about 3 Old Monks
Yes—the pub has a private dining room, a big pool table, and hosted a 40-person function recently. Staff are experienced with groups and maintain service quality even when busy.
Yes, dogs are welcome. One reviewer specifically praised the dog-friendly policy and enjoyed bringing their pet.
Extensive and well-executed. Reviewers highlight the Spicy Margarita, Clarified Pina Colada, and Whiskey Sour. The bartenders are knowledgeable and willing to suggest drinks.
Yes. Multiple reviewers mention watching rugby and football on big screens; the pub has seating positioned near screens and a quieter back area if you prefer.
Yes, it's good for kids. One family noted their children ate everything on the menu and felt welcome in the relaxed, cosy atmosphere.
Limited but high-quality menu with daily specials. Crispy pork belly, Nduja Mac and Cheese, beef Sunday roast, and haggis burgers are specifically praised for taste and presentation.
Also in Leith
View all18 venues changed rank in Leith this week → See full zone ranking
How We Rank Venues
Rankings are recalculated monthly from live Google Business Profile data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity (new text reviews in 90 days), recency (how fresh), baseline rating, and Google Business Profile completeness. No editorial picks, no paid placements — just what the data says this month.
How our monthly rankings work