Sofi's Southside

An eclectic hideaway between the meadows and university, and a perfect place to collect your thoughts, or write them down, or share them excitedly with friends. Spread over two levels, with three rooms, and cosy corners to hide away in, you are almost certain to find a niche to fit your mood, from dark and moody to light filled, Scandinavian peacefulness. This is my first visit here, though I've spent many hours in its sister bars: Sofi's Leith, Victoria's, Boda, Joseph Pierce... Given that, I can't say what the atmosphere is *normally* like, but on this Wednesday afternoon, there is a quiet hum of conversation, enough for the place to feel alive, but not enough to interrupt study or a good book. It feels comfortable and welcoming; the girl behind the bar was friendly, makes a nice coffee and knows her beers. Speaking of beer, there is a small but decent selection in bottles and a few on draught, not quite enough choice to qualify as a craft beer pub, but more than enough to make even a picky drinker fairly happy --- I'm picky, but finding Old Engine Oil makes me happy. For those with more sophistication than I, there is what looks to be a very impressive cocktail list, so they seem to have both ends of the spectrum covered. The music was understated but interesting, with a hint of a Swedish bent, well chosen to suit a laid back afternoon. There is a good selection of interesting board games, both traditional and modern on the bookshelf and more than enough space to play them, though on this occasion no one was. Between the music, the games, the improv artwork, the posters for cult films and television, and reserved signs for the Harry Potter society, I'd say that this is a pretty open, inclusive, friendly sort of a place. Oh, it's also dog friendly, so even though it's my first visit, I think it's earned its five stars :-)

Stumbled on this place while walking down the street and was rather surprised to find it empty in the morning. The place is bright, furnished nicely, and the young woman working the morning shift was super kind and personable. If they served food, I could see this place doing pretty well, especially once school is back in session. It's a perfect place to work, but without any food options, students probably won't spend their days working here.