Ricks is a restaurant, bar and ten-bedroom boutique hotel on Frederick Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, available for private events, parties and group celebrations. First opening in 2000, Ricks quickly became one of the city’s best-loved bars, and after several years trading as Rabble, has returned under its original name following an extensive refurbishment by Edinburgh studio Malcolm Duffin Design, under the independent Edinburgh-based Montpeliers Group.
The venue brings together a Georgian building and a former warehouse, linked by a glass-roofed courtyard, and the refreshed interiors keep the relaxed, informal feel that made Ricks a favourite. Private dining and event bookings at Ricks get the same breadth of food and drinks as the main restaurant, along with a team well-versed in making an occasion feel special, whether that’s an intimate birthday dinner, a team celebration or a lively work do.
Menus come from group executive chef Ross Giamblanco, who builds his dishes around Scottish suppliers including John Gilmour Butchers, Cumbrae Oysters and hand-picked crab from Tarbert. Group set menus run to three courses, with starters such as Serrano ham and Manchego croquetas with saffron aioli, or baked wild Argentinian prawns in garlic, chilli and smoked paprika oil. Mains might include grilled sea bass with a chorizo and king prawn risotto, a Scottish steak burger with smoked cheddar rarebit and candied bacon, or chargrilled sirloin with béarnaise, while a vegan pea risotto and dark chocolate and orange torte keep plant-based guests covered. Sticky toffee pudding with salted caramel makes a fitting finale.
At the bar, expect well-made classics alongside signatures such as the Ricks Modern Martini, made with olive leaf-infused gin and feta-washed vermouth, plus a considered draught beer list and wines chosen for character. With the bar open until 1am and ten bedrooms upstairs, out-of-town guests and colleagues can stay on site once your event at Ricks winds down.