Review: Piggs – A Spanish Tapas Triumph in Bruntsfield

I finally broke my duck and made it to Piggs. This is a genuinely hyped destination in Edinburgh with multiple locations, but I visited the one in Bruntsfield.

Walking in, the first question that hits you is simple: Is Piggs a wine bar or a tapas bar? Perhaps it is just my belly speaking, but I firmly consider it a tapas bar, even though the drinks menu is extensive. It is incredibly popular, so I highly recommend booking in advance. Walking into Piggs and hoping for a seat is an unlikely gamble, but if you do book, you are treated to a wonderful range of cocktails, sangria, brandies, and sherries.

The Three Tapas Rule

If you eat here, and frankly, why wouldn’t you, the menu offers the happy dilemma of sandwiches versus small plates. The sandwiches, or bocadillos, are tasty—the Jamón Manchego is particularly good—but I would definitely recommend checking out the tapas specials.

The Jamón Ibérico, a platter of hand-carved ham, is absolutely worthwhile. The croquetas and the Tortilla Española are staples done right. The Pollo al Ajillo (garlic chicken) is fantastic. I am a ‘belly of a person’, and I recommend ordering at least three tapas dishes per person. It is plausible that you could settle for two, especially if you plan to finish with churros or a Manchego Cheesecake afterwards, but Piggs is so tasty that restricting yourself would leave you feeling as if you hadn’t taken full opportunity of the hassle of booking.

There is a reputation here for being expensive, but I questioned if that holds up. The sandwiches sit between £13 and £15, which is certainly more than a meal deal, but comparable to artisan cafes in Leith or Stockbridge. The tapas are variable; some are just a couple of pounds, while the most expensive single dish is closer to £15. If you order three of the pricier plates, it adds up quickly, but for the quality, it feels justified.

A Date Night Destination

It is worth talking about the venue itself. The staff in Bruntsfield were attentive and efficient. It is not a huge location, but it is well-designed. I did not feel cramped or crowded. There was a definite vibe, yet I could still hear myself think and talk to my company.

Piggs is certainly the sort of location you might arrange to meet someone if you wanted to impress them. Whether it is an after-work business treat with a client or a date night, this place sets the bar high. Reputations can often be unrealistic, but I am not sure Piggs struggles to live up to the hype. I would happily and readily go back. It is a five-star tapas location in my book.

Things to do in Bruntsfield

Bruntsfield is one of Edinburgh’s most leafy and affluent neighbourhoods, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon before your dinner reservation.

• The Meadows: Just a short walk from the restaurant, this massive public park is perfect for walking off a heavy meal.
• Live Events: If you are looking to make a night of it with premium experiences, check Seat Unique for VIP tickets to concerts and sports events happening in the city.
• Accommodation: If you are visiting the city specifically for a foodie break, you might want to look beyond the standard chains. Britannia Hotels offers various options across the UK and can be a good starting point for finding rooms. Alternatively, for a wider range of guesthouses and hotels in the area, Trip.com is a reliable resource for comparing prices.
• Transport: Bruntsfield is well-served by Lothian Buses, but if you want the freedom to explore the wider Lothians, you might consider hiring a car via Carwow. If arriving by rail, book your tickets in advance via The Trainline to save on the fare.
• Luggage: If you have arrived early for your reservation and have bags dragging you down, Radical Storage has locations across the city where you can safely drop your luggage for a few hours.

Overall

I am impressed with Piggs. It manages to balance a buzzing atmosphere with high-quality food and attentive service. If your logistics and budget allow, I would absolutely check it out.