Two Leith bars were named in the prestigious guide

The Keelson in Leith has been named as one of the UK’s top 100 pubs in new rankings published by the Good Food Guide.

The bar and kitchen, founded by the team behind Dogstar and Nauticus, opened at 58 Shore in June and has already become famed for its mouth-watering rotisserie chicken and exemplary cocktail menu.

The four-month-old venue is ranked 69th in the list, described by the restaurant guide as a “stand out pub”.

Reviewing the food and drink offering and overall feel of the bar, the critics said: “It may not have received the flashiest of makeovers, but the group behind Edinburgh venues Nauticus and Dogstar has injected some much-needed character into what was previously a forgettable space in Leith – formerly home to a string of failed hospitality concepts.

“With beer taps at the bar, darts and Sky Sports on the TV, there’s no mistaking this is a proper pub, though chef Pier Berretta makes great use of his talents in a menu built around tender and golden rotisserie chicken.

“Available as a half or whole, the organic, herb-fed birds come with ratte potatoes rich with char and fat from the bottom of the rotisserie plus a sharply dressed green salad, a luxurious gravy and creamy, herbal ranch sauce.

“Starters and dishes from the grill veer between pubby and polished bistro. Cocktails and draught beers are a better bet than the wine list, which we found lacking in sparkle.

“Expect friendly and competent service.”

The Keelson’s co-founder, Michelin-starred chef James Murray, said: “We’re absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to announce that we’ve been place in the Good Food Guide top 100 pubs.

“This recognition means the world to us and is a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our amazing team, as well as the continued support of our wonderful guests and community.

“At huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey, supported us, dined with us and helped make our pub what it is today.”

Nobles by Bellfield on Constitution Street, with its craft ales and seasonal menu, also came in at number 83 on the list.

The recognition is a major achievement for the team at the Victorian hostelry, known for its ornate stained glass windows and one of the most impressive mahogany bars in Edinburgh.

Nobles has long been a landmark pub in Leith. The previous operators announced in October last year that they were leaving the pub and locals thanked them for 20 years of “great food, service and memories”.

Independent Edinburgh-based Bellfield Brewery took over the pub, which remained shut for a short period for minor updating of the bar and a refurbishment of the cellar area.

Chefs Hugh Brown - formerly of The Palmerston and Fin & Grape - and Will Simpson, formerly of the Shibden Mill Inn, took over the running of the pub and quickly developed their own reputation for excellent seasonal Scottish food.

Head chef Hugh Brown said: "We're cooking with the seasons and working with some brilliant local suppliers. We've got a good team, great produce and the freedom to cook the food we love. To be recognised by The Good Food Guide means a lot to all of us."

Other Scottish pubs highlighted by the guide are The Kinneuchar Inn in Fife, The Taybank in Dunkeld, the Applecross Inn in Wester Ross and The Clachan Inn in Dumfries and Galloway.