“You never imagined a sweeter schooner-a child might sail her-two hundred tons; name, Hispaniola. ”

— Robert Louis Stevenson - Treasure Island

Tucked away around the corner in Ciao Roma, lies a pirates lair…

… a homage to the great Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. The building itself, previously home to the famous Scottish writer’s favourite haunt, Rutherford’s. From 1834, this drinking den hosted Robert Louis Stevenson and his comrades of The Speculative Society every week.

The frontage is Category B Listed, lovingly restored by Franco Martone. Franco, after moving to Scotland from rural southern Italy when he was 16 (complete with a whole £3 in his pockets), has nurtured a fascination with Edinburgh’s enigmatic history ever since. So when the opportunity arose to expand Ciao Roma into this historic site, he felt it was imperative to recover as many of  the original details as possible. Victorian public houses in this remarkable condition are especially rare. It now survives, thanks to this meticulous restoration, providing a glimpse into the past of what used to be a common sight on Scotland’s streets.

Inside is transformed into the galley of a pirate’s ship. Rare antiques adorn the walls, portholes capture a glimpse of the turbulent seas outside. A rather unfortunate prisoner languishes in his cell suspended from the roof. Immediately, you are transported into the swash buckling world of Stevenson’s Treasure Island. An exceptional location for parties and large get togethers. Give us a call to book the area or book online here.