The Bon Vivant

Creating The Bon Vivant experience since 2008. Bon Vivant: n. pl.

CLASS Magazine Restaurant Bar of the Year 2018 & 2019
Tales of the Cocktail Top 10 International Restaurant Bar 2019

Follow us via
Twitter: @the_bon_vivant
Instagram: thebonvivantedinburgh bons vi·vants (bô v-vä) A person with refined taste, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink.

31/10/2024

Christmas Day is just 55 days away.

Sorry if that gave you a fright (but hey, it is Halloween after all...). Now the shock has settled, it's the ideal opportunity to remind you that our Festive Menus will be ready to enjoy in just 26 days!

We still have a few dates available, so be sure to book now and secure your spot. Imagine if you miss out, now that would be the real scare!

Photos from The Bon Vivant's post 15/10/2024

Inspired by autumnal flavours and filled with warming winter dishes, our new menus are available from today.

Find lighter but equally indulgent delights, like this Pumpkin risotto, topped with rich blue murder fondue, pine nuts and earthy sage. Or relish in something more decadent, such as our Duck breast served with celeriac purée, braised chicory, Hasselback baby potatoes, orange and hazelnuts - perfect plates for the frosty days ahead.

Full menus are available on our website.

11/10/2024

Introducing our fruity Fraise Fizz: Lind & Lime Gin, acidified grapefruit, strawberry and pineapple, topped with soda.

Available with an Edinburgh Cocktail Week wristband for the next 10 days.

10/09/2024

Get your fork into our tender roast Scotch rump cap every Sunday from midday, paired with a glass of red for the perfect weekend treat.

Book your table now.

22/08/2024

Introducing our Pistachio Suissesse.

This luxurious cocktail is inspired by the vintage drinking culture of New Orleans through the classic Absinthe Suissesse. Bright, fresh ingredients in the form of white port and a grassy overproof rum blend balance the botanical spice of the absinthe whilst cutting through the cream – resulting in an easy-drinking, deceptively boozy number that will transport you back to the golden age of cocktail culture.

19/08/2024

Available for a limited time only; The Macallan Highball. Expect a refined mix of The Macallan Double Cask 12, balanced by salted coconut syrup, a hint of absinthe, and a touch of soda for a refreshing finish.

Sample our whisky cocktails or stop by for a dram of The Macallan this August.

08/08/2024

A cocktail that packs a punch.

With a base of Aberfeldy 12 and Pineau des Charentes – a style of French fortified wine – this cocktail is perfectly blended with our homemade milk punch, created using coconut, white chocolate, ripe orchard fruits and grapes. To create the milk punch, we combine the base spirits with an acidic element (in this case, verjus) and milk, then strain the mixture, leaving a completely clear liquid with an extremely creamy, rich and viscous mouthfeel. Making cocktails in this way softens the flavours of individual components, bringing everything together for a unique, harmonious drinking experience.

Topped with a float of Beaujolais, our Grape & Grain Punch begins with a fresh, light red fruit flavour and ends on an indulgently creamy note.

31/07/2024

Looking for a midday break that feels indulgent without the hefty price? Then our lunch specials are just the ticket!

We’ve curated a selection of dishes that balance both exception value and exceptional dining, so why not treat yourself to a little lunchtime luxury that feels like a true culinary escape. Available Wednesday to Friday, Midday till 5pm.

01/07/2024

Introducing our Bar Manager and cocktail connoisseur, Robbie.

At the age of 18, Robbie started his bartending journey in a cosy whisky bar in Aberdeen, always looking up to The Bon Vivant as a “legendary venue”. We have had the pleasure of watching his passion and talent for bartending grow since joining The Bon Vivant Group at our sister venue, Lady Libertine, leading to his well-deserved promotion to Bar Manager at The Bon Vivant.

His expertise doesn’t end at cocktail creation though. Robbie’s recent endeavours in the WSET examination put him top of the class, achieving distinction in the world’s leading drinks qualification for wine and spirits. So, if you’re not sure which tipple to pick off the menu, Robbie is on hand to help.

And his favourite drink? “Champagne, always. Right now, Billecart-Salmon Rosé.” We can’t argue with that choice for summer!

06/06/2024

A Sunday Roast for the Dad that deserves a little luxury. Book now for Father's Day on Sunday 16th June.

29/03/2024

Spend Easter enjoying a Sunday Roast with the most.

We don't just stick to beef at The Bon Vivant, we've got options for every palette offering roast Scottish pork belly, cod and cauliflower steak, alongside the perfect pairing for Easter Sunday, Scottish leg of lamb.

Available every Sunday from 12pm.

05/03/2024

We’ll be closed next Monday to undergo some essential maintenance work, but we’ll be back and open as normal on Tuesday from 4pm. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and look forward to welcoming you back!

02/03/2024

For a Mother’s Day lunch that’s as special as she is, celebrate with a Sunday Roast at The Bon Vivant.

16/02/2024

Introducing Framed in Kentucky, our twist on a classic Manhattan for Angel’s Envy Manhattan Week.

This variation on the Manhattan uses sherry and chamomile, giving a delicate floral flavour that makes this a perfect evening sipper.

If this sounds like your type of tipple, stop by to try it soon as it’s only available until the 22nd of February!

07/02/2024

This Valentine’s Day, savour our unique blend of impeccable service, delectable dishes and cosy, candlelit interiors. Treat your significant other to a meal to remember; with no set menus, no flashy pink drinks and no inflated prices just for the occasion.

Only a mouth-watering menu and drinks to fall in love with.

05/02/2024

Our New Opening Hours.

Exciting news; starting this week we'll be opening for lunch on Wednesday and Thursdays.
Therefore, our new opening hours are:
From 4pm on Mondays and Tuesdays
From 12pm Wednesday to Sunday
Lunchtimes just got a lot more delicious!

29/01/2024

A sweet treat to help you through the week.

Indulge in velvety vanilla panna cotta with cardamom and caramel sauce, caramelized apple, yoghurt sorbet, candied pecans and a cinnamon puff pastry.

26/01/2024

In the spirit of Dry January, here’s a bitter sweet sipper to help you through this last weekend.

Warming ginger, honey and sour orange make this an immune boosting mocktail that’s as refreshing as it is tasty. If you’re keeping it sober this month (or any month), then just ask us about our non-alcoholic concoctions and we’ll be happy to help.

24/01/2024

Elevate your midweek catch up with our Cheese & Charcuterie Board.

Enjoy an array of artisanal cheeses, cured meats and a medley of delectable accompaniments to complement. From the silky and smooth Clava Brie to the delicate slices of porcini & truffle infused salami, it’s indulgently delicious and pairs perfectly with a good bottle of red.

19/01/2024

Experience the magic of Burns’ Night at The Bon Vivant.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening dedicated to the brilliance of Robert Burns on Thursday 25th January. Ticket holders will be treated to a delicious 5 course banquet of our favourite Scottish fare and soul-stirring musical renditions of the Bard’s poetry, all in the intimate setting of our award-winning restaurant.

With reservations at 7.30pm only, spaces are limited, so book now to secure your table.

11/01/2024

This January we are all about indulging in Winter warmers. Like our pan roasted pigeon breast served with rich mushroom ragu, which described as ‘divine’. But don’t take our word for it, or even theirs, this delectable dish is available now on our a la carte menu.

08/01/2024

Our Prix Fixe menu launches today and is available Monday to Friday throughout January.

Indulge in a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner and enjoy two courses for £19 or 3 courses for £25. Why settle for ordinary when you can turn your January dining into an affair to remember, trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Want your restaurant to be the top-listed Restaurant in Edinburgh?
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.

Become a true bon vivant.

Bon Vivant: n. pl. bons vi·vants (bô v-vä) A person with refined taste, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink.

The Bon Vivant was opened in September 2008 by Stuart McCluskey, with an idea to create an environment that was similar to those found on the continent; where dining is often informal and casual yet of a very high standard.

Our food philosophy is a selection of simple but well executed dishes that focus on flavour and quality produce. We do as the Europeans do, eat small but with thought. Whether you fancy a bottle of Champagne, a pint, or a wee dram with friends, The Bon Vivant aims to cater for all tastes. We are open 12pm – 1am. Food served daily 12pm – 10pm (Sunday till 9pm).

Videos (show all)

Address


55 Thistle Street
Edinburgh
EH21DY

Opening Hours

Monday 4pm - 11pm
Tuesday 4pm - 11pm
Wednesday 12pm - 11pm
Thursday 12pm - 11pm
Friday 12pm - 12am
Saturday 12pm - 12am
Sunday 12pm - 11pm

Other Edinburgh restaurants (show all)
Artisan Roast Coffee Roasters Artisan Roast Coffee Roasters
57 Broughton Street
Edinburgh, EH13RJ

Speciality Coffee Roasters from Scotland.

Slug & Lettuce Edinburgh, George Street Slug & Lettuce Edinburgh, George Street
113-115 George Street
Edinburgh, EH24YN

City centre bar & restaurant, serving breakfast till 12, lunch & evening meals. 241 cocktails & tipsy afternoon tea, or even a cocktail masterclass party

Guru Restaurant Edinburgh Guru Restaurant Edinburgh
4-8 Lochrin Buildings
Edinburgh, EH39NB

Welcome to the Guru Restaurant Edinburgh, one of Edinburgh's finest authentic Indian restaurants.

The Tron The Tron
9 Hunter Square
Edinburgh, EH11QW

Enjoy great food & drink along with some amazing drinks deals every day of the week! Food served daily until 9pm!

The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh
43-45 The Causeway
Edinburgh, EH153QA

The Sheep Heid Inn is a beautifully restored village pub & restaurant in Duddingston.

The Street The Street
The Street, 2b Picardy Place
Edinburgh, EH13JT

The Three Sisters - Edinburgh The Three Sisters - Edinburgh
139 Cowgate
Edinburgh, EH11

The Three Sisters

Element Element
110-114 Rose Street
Edinburgh, EH23JF

Your local in the heart of Edinburgh.

Tapa Tapa
19 Shore Place
Edinburgh, EH66SW

A Spanish restaurant in the Shore area of Edinburgh serving creative, exciting tapas!

ITRI RESTAURANT ITRI RESTAURANT
169-173 Gilmore Place
Edinburgh, EH39

WE ARE ITRI - an Edinburgh based restaurant that cooks Southern Italian cuisine so authentic, that you'd be forgiven for stepping outside our restaurant and wondering why it was ra...

Greenmantle Greenmantle
44 West Crosscauseway
Edinburgh, EH89JP

📍Southside, Edinburgh 🍻 Craft Beers 🍔 Buffalo Burgers 📺 Big screen TV ⚽️LIVE sport all week

The Southsider The Southsider
3-7 West Richmond Street
Edinburgh, EH89EF

Kitchen Opening times: 12-9 Mon-Sun