Comet & Blitzen, a new festive-themed pop-up bar in Stockbridge, is a must-visit for any Christmas super-fan! With a drinks and food menu bursting with winter treats, the promise of suitably festive decor, and an open fire, Comet & Blitzen isn’t to be missed! We chat to owner Jamie Reid, about showcasing what Edinburgh has to offer, why he loves Stockbridge, and whether there will be a follow-up to Comet & Blitzen.
We don’t know much so tell us about the Comet & Blitzen pop-up bar. What can people expect? When do you open and how long for?
Comet & Blitzen is a festive themed pop-up bar which is running through into the New Year. We aim to provide a unique atmosphere with festive themed food and winter drinks. We showcase the best Edinburgh has to offer with Paolozzi lager, Barney’s IPA, Pickering’s gin and cheese from I.J. Mellis, to name a few. We aim to provide an alternative to the Christmas market and the generic festive offering of the city centre. Comet & Blitzen just opened a couple of weeks ago so come down and say hello!
What made you decide to open a pop-up bar in Stockbridge?
Stockbridge is an area we have loved for a long time and I think people are looking for a change from George Street. Local high streets are beginning to grow their own identities. Areas such as Leith, Morningside and Stockbridge provide an abundance of independent bars and restaurants. There is also a changing attitude amongst the public to support local businesses.
We are most excited about the winter cocktails and festive feasts! Can you tell us about the menu?
The drinks menu consists of a few handcrafted winter cocktails. So far our expresso martinis are flying out the door and our festive mules have been very popular! I think whiskey is becoming trendier with the city’s youth and our old fashioned made with Glenfiddich 15 year old is a great winter warmer.
Our food menu is a combination of Christmas tapas and sharing platters. I love the idea of sharing food and ordering lots of small plates as it is a perfect way to eat with friends. All our plates have a festive twist. Fondue has been a massive hit so far as we are the only place in Edinburgh selling it; we do both cheese and chocolate and we took our inspiration for this from après-ski resorts.
Will there be another pop-up following Comet & Blitzen if it is a success? Do you have any other projects in the pipeline we can know about?
We plan on opening another pop-up in the New Year but you’ll have to wait to see what this is.
Finally, what would your ideal 24 hours in Edinburgh entail?
My ideal day in Edinburgh would include a morning run around Inverleith Park followed by lunch in Stockbridge and then a walk into town. In the evening I enjoy exploring the cities new bars and restaurants in lots of different areas. Edinburgh is an easy place to get around and a beautiful city.
Address: Comet & Blitzen, North West Circus Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh
Web: www.facebook.com/cometandblitzenbar/
