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News & Blog

New Abacus restaurant brings Scottish-Mediterranean dining to Edinburgh’s Southside

Posted: 23rd February 2026

Abacus, the newly refurbished bar and restaurant at The Scholar Hotel, has opened in Edinburgh’s Southside, offering an all-day dining experience where seasonal Scottish produce meets Mediterranean influences.

Tucked away in the popular hotel within Pollock Estate, Abacus is open seven days a week, serving breakfast and an all-day menu from 12 noon until 9.30pm. Its recent refurbishment has turned the space into a welcoming environment, pairing calm, natural interiors with splashes of colour and artwork that reflect the vibrancy of the new menu. A new layout and booth seating adds flexible options for diners, and a revamped private dining area that seats up to 10 gives groups the perfect place to unwind.

Led by The Scholar Hotel’s culinary team, the Abacus menu highlights quality ingredients and considered dishes across an all-day offering. Breakfast options include Loch Fyne Smoked Salmon, Scottish Porridge with honey and seeds, a Full Scottish Breakfast and a selection of continental staples. The all-day offering ranges from small plates designed for sharing to more substantial mains such as Venison Loin with seasonal accompaniments and a plant-forward Winter Squash, Harissa & Spinach Wellington.

At the bar, guests can expect a carefully considered drinks list featuring an Abacus G&T, Whisky Sour and Espresso Martini, alongside a curated European wine selection and low- and no-alcohol choices. Seasonal serves, including Hot Toddies, Mimosas and Bloody Marys, round out the winter selection and guarantee to be crowd pleasers for diners and hotel guests alike.

Speaking about the new opening, Group General Manager, Gavin MacLennan said: “We’re delighted to introduce Abacus to Edinburgh’s Southside. Following a full refurbishment, Abacus is designed to welcome guests from morning through to evening, whether for coffee, a casual meal or a special occasion. We look forward to welcoming both locals and visitors and hope Abacus quickly becomes a favourite neighbourhood spot.”

For festive gatherings, Abacus is introducing a two or three-course group dining menu, ideal for work celebrations, family events or end of year get togethers.

Abacus at The Scholar Hotel is now open daily for breakfast, all-day dining, drinks and festive group bookings. Table reservations and menus are available at: www.abacusedi.com.

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