Looking through the windows of The Doghouse, it is understandable why one may feel slightly intimated. Stuffed animals with no heads, a taxidermied bird sitting in a cage, a headless mannequin with a body covered in tattoos…
Yet these decorations in fact mask what is one of the coolest bars on Edinburgh with reasonable drink prices, friendly bar staff, and a warming ambience.
Stepping through the doors of The Doghouse, however, offer no respite from the eclectic decoration; this in fact increases the curious charm of the interior. Where a typical beer tap would display the variety of ales on offer, the Doghouse instead opts for a selection of severed doll heads each with their own personality, whilst from the ceiling leftover gloves and socks indicate the presence of those who maybe had too much fun on a night out there.
Each corner of the room seems to have its own character or theme, with no space left uncovered by decoration. Whilst for some the interior may offer a sensory overload, for the aesthetically inclined The Doghouse offers the ideal space to wonder at the creativity of the human mind and our boundless talents for imagination. Vacillating from the nostalgic teddy-bear and stuffed animal corner, to the interestingly termed ‘horny corner’, this pub certainly ensures a space for everyone; meanwhile a comprehensive list of board games ensures fun can continue through the night and beyond.
Certainly, The Doghouse may not be the space for those looking for a more relaxed night out, but for those interested in a casual night with a taste of excitement, it is conclusively the place to be.
The food and drink offered further heightens the appeal of The Doghouse, offering a broad spread of reasonably priced dishes. The food offered is almost entirely vegan, centring around various “veganified” versions of traditional chip shop dishes, included “falamari” and “lemon fole”, whilst those less inclined to veganism may enjoy a battered sausage and chips at the student-friendly price of £5. However, it is in their drinks that this pub truly shines, offering creatively named £7.50 cocktails certain to please any cocktail doubter.
With names perhaps not the most appropriate to put in print, we tried cocktails with various bases including one with vodka and banana rum, which offered a tropical experiences, and another with tequila and maraschino. Though perhaps our favourite was the aptly named ‘Dr Disco’, a reimagining of a long island iced tea with cherry brandy and amaretto to offer a smooth, pleasing experience making you ready to dance.
Aside from their live music nights, The Doghouse also offers pub quizzes every Monday for those willing to flex their brains after a busy day in George Square.
Overall, The Doghouse offers the perfect experience for anyone looking for the traditional pub feel combined with eclectic, fun, and (occasionally) strange decoration. So, the next time you catch yourself walking underneath its neon green sign and peeking through to see behind the decorations in the window, rather than ogling from afar, open its doors and step through into the most interesting pub in the city (or at least we think so).
Image via Harry Sharma