OpenGiovanni Italian Bistro
7 High St, Penicuik EH26 8HS, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro
The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro is a charming gastropub nestled in the heart of Penicuik. This community-focused spot serves up a delightful variety of dishes that cater to all tastes. From the classic fish and chips to vegetarian tacos, the menu reflects a commitment to quality and freshness. The relaxed atmosphere welcomes families, friends, and even pets, making it an ideal spot for a casual outing. The Cuikoo is not just about food; it fosters a sense of community with live music and events that bring locals together. Whether stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, guests can expect great service and a vibrant vibe.
Welcome to The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro, your local gastropub that combines a community vibe with delicious food and drink. Located in Penicuik, we offer a diverse menu filled with healthy options, small plates, and a fantastic selection of beverages including craft beer, cocktails, and fine wines. Enjoy a casual meal indoors or on our outdoor seating, perfect for groups or solo diners. With live music and sports, there’s always something happening at The Cuikoo. Our family-friendly atmosphere accommodates kids with a special menu and high chairs, making it an ideal spot for everyone. Come savor our renowned fish and chips and more!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Live music
Sport
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
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Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Patrons frequently praise the generous portion sizes at The Cuikoo. The fish and chips, often highlighted, come in a gluten-free version, making it a favorite for those with dietary restrictions. Customers also enjoy the homemade steak and ale pie, which is hearty and filled with tender meat. The pub's casual ambiance, where families can relax and dogs are welcomed, is another aspect that keeps people coming back. Many patrons rave about the live music events that add a joyful vibe to their dining experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Lastly, the reasonable pricing for high-quality, fresh cooked food makes it an irresistible spot for locals and visitors alike.
Most Disliked
While The Cuikoo is generally well-loved, some diners note that the busiest times can lead to slightly slower service. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak hours to avoid disappointment. A few have mentioned that the variety on the menu, though extensive, can feel overwhelming at times when trying to decide what to order. Some diners also feel that the pub could benefit from more diverse vegetarian and vegan options, despite having a mostly inclusive menu. Lastly, a handful of reviews pointed out a desire for more gluten-free dessert options to accompany their main meals, as the current offerings focus mainly on savory dishes.
User Reviews
Ki
Kirstin
Been here a few times now with family who live locally. Great place that is also dog friendly. The fish and chips is always brilliant and really good size portion (half size available if its too much). Gluten free menu is also available so mum in law is delighted to have gluten free batter on the fish. Husband had the Highland Burger and enjoyed. Excellent local spot and really friendly staff too! I would say that pricing is reasonable for fresh cooked food. Highly recommend if in the area.
LH
Lanina H.
Great experience! Called after a long drive and they fitted us in just before the kitchen closed. The staff are excellent and service unmatched! I have allergies and they were so accommodating with everything. Clean and friendly would recommend
RK
Ryan K.
Popped in for a Saturday beer, which turned into a meal. Food was fantastic the wings to start 10/10. Homemade steak and ale pie very tasty with a very generous portion of meat in it. Washed down with a Guinness. Friendly staff and live band to set the atmosphere decent Saturday.
OS
Oscar S.
We had a lovely experience — the food was delicious and the prices were very reasonable. The staff were warm and welcoming, and Konrad in particular was especially kind and attentive, making sure everything was perfect. Highly recommend this place for a relaxed and tasty pub lunch or dinner. The burgers were excellent!
JW
Justin W.
Cracking impromptu Monday night out. Shared the Korean chicken wings to start followed by the steak frites. Amazing price even better value on a Monday! The steaks just melted and the frites were so crispy. They also do taco Tuesdays, wings Wednesdays and have all sorts of other tasty things on their menu
RS
Roger S.
Popped in here for a family of 6 lunch on Sunday. What a fantastic meal we all had. We are definitely going to be back for another meal here.
DS
D S.
Really nice food and generous portions. Great find and it’s dog-friendly! Would definitely recommend the tacos. Thank you x
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro shines with its community-focused vibe, offering a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying great food and drinks. Its standout features include a fantastic selection of beers, live music, and a casual, cosy setting.
Dining options at The Cuikoo include brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. The menu caters to various tastes with offerings like healthy choices, quick bites, and vegetarian options.
Yes, The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro is wheelchair-accessible, featuring designated parking, entrance, seating, and toilets, ensuring everyone can enjoy a visit.
Expect to pay between £10 to £20 for meals at The Cuikoo. With a diverse menu, there's definitely something to suit different budgets without compromising on quality.
Reservations at The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro are accepted. Calling +44 1968 672902 is a good way to secure your spot, especially during peak times.
Why visit The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro
The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro deserves a visit for its inviting community spirit and delicious food. For anyone enjoying a day in Penicuik, this gastropub offers a perfect stop for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. The outdoor seating is a bonus during warmer months, and the friendly staff are always keen on accommodating guests' needs, especially those with dietary restrictions.
Take advantage of daily specials like Taco Tuesdays and Wings Wednesdays to savor unique flavors throughout the week. The cozy atmosphere, complemented by live music on weekends, makes The Cuikoo an excellent venue for a night out with friends or a casual family dinner. It’s truly a local hub that embraces inclusivity, warm hospitality, and fantastic food. For a delightful culinary experience in a relaxed setting, The Cuikoo Bar & Bistro is a must-visit.
