Edinburgh’s West End has a jewel in its crown, and it is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Somewhere by Nico, founded by culinary maestro Nico Simeone, has transformed the former Bar Roma and Foundry building on Queensferry Street into what can only be described as a Salvador Dalí painting come to life.
Having opened its doors in June 2024, this immersive cocktail and dinner destination has quickly established itself as the go-to spot for Edinburgh’s cool crowd – and with good reason.
From the moment you cross the threshold, you are transported into a dreamscape of surreal artwork and hypnotic moving flowers. The lighting is deliberately low, casting an intimate glow across the space, with the bar commanding centre stage. For those seeking privacy, the snug booths comfortably accommodate up to four people, while the plush velvet seating at tables for two offers the perfect perch for people-watching.
On weekend evenings resident DJs craft soundscapes that enhance the otherworldly atmosphere without drowning out conversation – a refreshing change from venues where shouting becomes the only form of communication.
Initially offering a fixed-price cocktail experience at £65 per person, Somewhere by Nico has wisely pivoted to a more flexible, Latin American-inspired menu where dishes are individually priced across categories including Snacks, Raw, Skewers, Tacos, Grill, and Sides, and of course, cocktails.
My fear of the small plate concept is that everything comes out at once, so while it’s probably not encouraged, my dining companions and I have now mastered the art of staggering our order so our table doesn’t become overwhelmed by all the plates.
During my visit, the Croquetas De Aji De Gallina proved a delightful departure from their Spanish counterparts, with a more substantial potato and chicken filling infused with the creamy Peruvian stew. The singular, generous croquette presented a sharing challenge for our party of three – though the Padron Peppers with sea salt, lime, and chilli provided a more communal experience.
From the grill selection, the barbecued onglet with Aji Amarillo and Salsa Verde delivered a punch of Peruvian spice, while the half-grilled poussin with pine nut mole, Nduja, and preserved lemon offered a nod to Mexican culinary traditions. The portions, were described as “small plates,” but proved satisfyingly substantial.
The cocktail offerings are where Somewhere by Nico truly shines, with three distinct menus to explore: Classic, Specials, and In the Spotlight, plus a fourth dedicated to their current Latin American theme. The mixologists demonstrate both technical prowess and creative flair, incorporating smoke infusions and playful illusions that transform drinking into theatre.
My Brazilian Caipirinha was executed with precision, followed by The Wanderer (a Dirty Gibson Martini) from their ‘In the Spotlight’ menu – a sophisticated blend of gin, dry vermouth, and pickle brine garnished with a pickled onion. While desserts are absent from the food menu, the bar team will happily craft sweet cocktails upon request, but my Black Forest Espresso proved slightly too saccharine for my taste.
For those intrigued by this surrealist escape, Somewhere by Nico has extended their launch offer, with 50% off food bills for bookings made before March 23rd. The venue operates Wednesday through Sunday, serving until late.
In a city not short on dining and drinking destinations, Somewhere by Nico stands out as genuinely transporting – a place where cocktails, cuisine, and ambiance conspire to carry you somewhere else entirely. Just be warned: once you’ve ventured into this alternate reality, you may find yourself reluctant to return to the ordinary world outside.
