Ooh Mami

Alas this lovely place has closed down. Thanks to Charlotte, G, Pat, Tom, Rory, Alex, Darryl, Lottie and all the regulars for making this place so darn special. If you don't know the area and are looking for a similar bar, try Bullfinch for tunes and food, Dukes for wings and sports and Bundits for that Asian fusion bao experience. Just my personal recommendations.

I'm delighted that there's an Ooh Mami. I've found memories of the Iso Bar that used to be in the space and despite some valiant efforts nothing managed to replace it until Ooh Mami came along. This Asian fusion restaurant oozes charisma. Dim and colourful light spills from the cosy nook to wash out over Bernard Street and lure you in. There are Ooh Mami nights that have more energy than I've seen in months of work on the tramworks outside. Ultimately, I hope the trams prove to be a net win for the venue. Tip: Looking for live comedy or events in Leith? Check Ooh Mami's social media. They like to play host. I like the food! I've had some adventurous gyoza there such as blue cheese and haggis. I've also thoroughly tested their range of noodles. I'm yet to find something I didn't like. I'm often left wanting more but I'm a glutton. I don't think you need to eat to enjoy Ooh Mami, though. You can go just for drinks. There's often friends sitting in the window seat area and it creates such a welcoming atmosphere. My first visit was the best as the Asian themed bar actually had anime playing on the many screens, and I'm an anime loving geek. That's never been repeated, perhaps there's been a change in staff and therefore tastes but, thankfully, I've never seen sportsball on show. I'm not against people running around for vasts amount of money, it's just not the Asian fusion experience I'd want. I must go back a few more times! [August 22 update - been back a few times, menu feels broader and the venue is still a top recommendation]

This place is, hands down, one of the best bars in all of Edinburgh, and it's a hill I would die proudly on. What more can you ask for? Stellar drinks, excellent food, great ambiance, and an owner with more deadpan humour than you could ever possibly ask for. So go on, ask yourself, do you feel like being Charlie just mere steps away from the Chocolate Factory? Or are you going to go home, and be stuck in bed with your partner that smells probably no better than Grandpa Joe did. Don't be an Augustus Gloop. Go grab a drink at Ooh Mami today. You can thank me later.