I agree with the some of the other reviewers that Bar Alba stands out a bit from the other pubs in the Grassmarket. But this has more to do with the rest of the pubs being all the same rather than Bar Alba being particuarly unique.\n\nLocated on a well situated corner of the ever busy and touristy Grassmarket, Bar Alba is one seemingly endless pubs in the area. However instead of being a \"traditional\" or particuarly  \"Scottish\" pub, Bar Alba (which ironically means Scotland) has a more contemporary aesthetic. It's clean and neat. However Bar Alba didn't really have any atmosphere. It's great that it stands out, but it needs to stand out for its one merits, not on the failings of others.\n\nTo top it off it's pretty pricey, both drinks and food. The latter isn't particuarly wonderful either.\n\nBar Alba needs to add some more atmosphere and lower its prices. If it does so then it has a recipe for a great pub.