The Dome

On George Street, The Dome occupies a building that catches the eye before guests step inside: its monumental facade and classically inspired interiors belong to a former bank, now adapted as a restaurant, bar, and event venue. The offering spans different occasions, from brunch to dinner and afternoon tea, while a range of rooms lets guests choose between a lively table and a more private gathering.

The site’s story begins in 1775, when architect and city planner James Craig designed Edinburgh’s Physicians’ Hall here. The original building gave way in 1844 to the Commercial Bank of Scotland, designed by David Rhind. The main banking hall, with its dome and columns, and other interior details retain the character of the 19th-century building. After the Royal Bank of Scotland left in 1993, the property was restored and The Dome opened in 1996.

The Grill Room occupies the former banking hall and retains its Georgian architecture. It serves a brasserie-style menu; the published selection includes à la carte and set-price menus, options for specific dietary needs, and a children’s menu. The bar area also offers snacks and drinks. Menus can change, making the room suitable for a formal meal as well as a lighter stop during a visit.

The Club Room serves brunch in a setting distinct from the grand main hall. For a more leisurely pause, the Georgian Tea Room offers afternoon tea on the first floor in a room arranged for the occasion, reached by stairs or elevator. The venue lists vegetarian, vegan, children’s, and ingredient-specific options. That range makes afternoon tea an experience of its own rather than simply an add-on to a meal in the Grill Room.

Private rooms extend the building’s use beyond daily dining. The Green Room accommodates groups of up to 20, while the Georgian Tea Room can be reserved for celebrations of up to 80. The venue hosts private lunches and dinners, wedding meals, and civil partnership celebrations. Its kitchen team can tailor menus to each event, with wine and other drinks matched to the format.

There are also rooms for meetings, presentations, and professional gatherings. The Boardroom seats 12 and has a projector, screen, and Wi-Fi; other spaces accommodate everything from small meetings to conferences for around 50 people. The building therefore brings together an unusual combination in central Edinburgh: historic architecture, dining, and equipped meeting rooms at one address, with elevator access to several spaces.

The Dome is especially appealing to visitors looking for a meal connected to Edinburgh’s character: the architecture is central to the visit, not merely a backdrop. The choice of rooms supports brunch, a brasserie meal, afternoon tea, or a private celebration, although each space has its own scale and format. Reservations are recommended, and guests should tell the team about dietary requests or group needs in advance.