Edinburgh is home to some of the best bars around. From cozy pubs to chic cocktail lounges, the city offers an abundance of places to get a night out with friends. Whether you’re looking for a classic pint or a unique drink, Edinburgh’s bars have something for everyone. Here are 11 of the must-try bars in Edinburgh to visit.
1) The Devil’s Advocate
One of the best bars in Edinburgh to visit is The Devil’s Advocate. This place is well-known for its impressive selection of whiskies and craft beers, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be impressed by the stunning interior design, with a mix of modern and traditional elements that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing night out or a more lively experience, The Devil’s Advocate is one of the best pubs in the city to enjoy some great drinks with friends or loved ones. Be sure to try their signature cocktails and sample some of the delicious bar snacks on offer. You won’t be disappointed!
2) Panda & Sons
Another contender for the best bars in Edinburgh is Panda & Sons. Located in the New Town area, this speakeasy-style bar has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s hidden behind a vintage barbershop front, so keep your eyes peeled for the sign and venture down the stairs to find the bar.
The decor inside is quirky and eclectic, with a vintage feel. You’ll find old-fashioned barber chairs, bookshelves filled with quirky books, and taxidermy adorning the walls. The drinks menu is equally as impressive, with creative and unique cocktails served up by skilled mixologists. Their Bloody Mary, served in a ceramic panda-shaped vessel, is a must-try.
Panda & Sons offers a fun and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a first date. If you’re looking for the best pubs in Edinburgh with a twist, Panda & Sons is definitely worth checking out.
3) The Bow Bar
For a taste of traditional Scottish pub culture, head to The Bow Bar. This charming establishment has been serving locals and visitors alike for over 100 years, and is consistently ranked among the best pubs in Edinburgh.
One of the standout features of The Bow Bar is its impressive selection of over 300 whiskies, many of which are sourced from local distilleries. The knowledgeable staff are more than happy to offer recommendations and share their passion for Scotland’s national drink.
But it’s not just whisky that makes The Bow Bar a must-visit spot. The cozy interior, complete with wooden beams and a roaring fire, provides the perfect setting for a relaxed drink with friends. And the food menu, which includes hearty pub fare like haggis and neeps, is the perfect complement to the drinks selection.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a pint, The Bow Bar is sure to impress. Don’t miss out on this Edinburgh institution!
4) Hoot the Redeemer
Hoot the Redeemer is not your average bar. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this whimsical bar takes inspiration from vintage circus and carnival themes. As soon as you enter, you’re transported into a funhouse filled with bright lights and colourful decor. The menu features unique cocktails with playful names like Popcorn Daiquiri and Sweetheart Sazerac. Don’t miss their signature “mystery cocktail” which is a surprise creation from the bartender. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their ice cream cocktail which is served in a miniature bathtub. Hoot the Redeemer is the perfect spot for a quirky and memorable night out in Edinburgh.
5) Lucky Liquor Co.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, Lucky Liquor Co. is a stylish and intimate bar that’s perfect for a cozy night out with friends. This speakeasy-style venue offers a unique selection of cocktails, from classic favorites to inventive creations, all made with fresh ingredients and expertly mixed.
The interior of Lucky Liquor Co. is a blend of vintage and modern, with dark wood accents, low lighting, and a retro jukebox providing a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to sample a new flavor combination or simply sip on an old favorite, the bartenders here are always happy to help you choose the perfect drink.
In addition to their impressive cocktail menu, Lucky Liquor Co. also offers a range of craft beers, fine wines, and top-shelf spirits, making it a great spot for connoisseurs of all kinds. If you’re feeling peckish, be sure to try one of their tasty bar bites, which range from mini cheeseburgers to smoked haddock croquettes.
Lucky Liquor Co. is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a refined and relaxed drinking experience in Edinburgh. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind with friends, you’re sure to enjoy the warm and welcoming vibe of this hidden gem.
6) The Last Word Saloon
The Last Word Saloon is a must-visit bar for cocktail lovers in Edinburgh. Located on St. Stephen Street, this bar has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a dimly lit interior and exposed brick walls.
Their cocktail menu features a wide range of unique and creative concoctions, with ingredients ranging from beetroot to seaweed. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their signature cocktail, The Last Word, which includes gin, green chartreuse, maraschino, and lime juice.
But if cocktails aren’t your thing, don’t worry – The Last Word Saloon also has an impressive selection of craft beers and wines. And if you’re feeling peckish, they offer a small menu of bar snacks and charcuterie boards.
The Last Word Saloon is a great spot for a cozy date night or a catch-up with friends over some expertly crafted cocktails. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of Edinburgh.
7) Bramble
Nestled in Queen Street, Bramble is a popular spot among Edinburgh’s cocktail aficionados. This speakeasy-style bar has been around for over a decade and has received numerous accolades for its impeccable service and creative cocktail offerings.
As soon as you step through Bramble’s unassuming black door, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to the prohibition era. The dimly lit bar has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a romantic night out or a catch-up with friends.
Bramble’s menu features an impressive list of classic and contemporary cocktails, but the bar is best known for its gin-based drinks. The bar also has a seasonal menu, which means there’s always something new to try.
The bartenders at Bramble are true experts in their craft. They use only the best ingredients and pay great attention to detail, ensuring that every drink they make is a work of art. The bar also has a reputation for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always happy to help you navigate the menu.
One thing to note: Bramble doesn’t take reservations, so be sure to arrive early if you want to secure a table. But trust us, the wait is worth it. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a memorable night out, Bramble is a must-visit on your Edinburgh bar crawl.
8) The Bon Vivant
If you’re looking for a place that screams luxury, then The Bon Vivant is the perfect bar for you. With its plush velvet seating and elegant decor, you’ll feel like royalty as you sip on your cocktails.
The menu at The Bon Vivant is extensive and features a variety of cocktails, from classic to contemporary. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Pineapple Daiquiri, made with rum, lime, pineapple, and cinnamon. Or if you’re in the mood for something more classic, their Old Fashioned is a must-try.
In addition to their impressive cocktail menu, The Bon Vivant also serves a range of delicious bar snacks to accompany your drinks. From their smoked duck breast with blueberry jam to their truffle fries, the food is just as indulgent as the cocktails.
If you’re looking to splurge a little on your night out in Edinburgh, then The Bon Vivant is definitely worth a visit. The sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable drinks and food make it a standout choice for any discerning bar-goer.
9) The Voodoo Rooms
If you’re looking for a unique bar experience, The Voodoo Rooms is a must-visit in Edinburgh. This vintage-style bar boasts a luxurious and intimate atmosphere, with plush velvet chairs and dim lighting setting the mood. The bar has four different areas to choose from, including a restaurant, a main bar, a ballroom, and a speakeasy-style “Black Magic” bar hidden away behind a bookcase.
The cocktail menu at The Voodoo Rooms is nothing short of impressive, with drinks crafted by award-winning bartenders. Try the “Bloody Voodoo,” a twist on the classic Bloody Mary made with rum and house-made spicy tomato juice. Or, opt for a more unusual drink like the “Alchemist’s Gold,” made with absinthe, saffron-infused honey, and grapefruit.
Beyond the cocktails, The Voodoo Rooms also hosts live music and DJ sets, making it a popular spot for a night out. Be sure to check their calendar to see what events are coming up. Whether you’re looking for a fancy night out or just want to try some unique cocktails, The Voodoo Rooms is definitely worth a visit.
10) Tiger Lily
Tiger Lily is an upscale bar and restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh’s George Street. It’s known for its stylish decor and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
This bar boasts an extensive list of cocktails, with many classics and signature drinks available. From fruity martinis to spicy margaritas, there’s something for everyone at Tiger Lily. The bar also offers an impressive selection of wines and spirits, including a range of rare whiskies and gin.
In addition to its impressive drinks menu, Tiger Lily also offers a varied food menu. You can choose from small plates, main courses, and sharing platters. The dishes are all prepared using the freshest local ingredients, and the menu has something to suit all tastes.
Tiger Lily is a stylish and chic spot to enjoy a night out in Edinburgh. The bar is perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere, great cocktails, and delicious food. Make sure to add it to your list of must-visit bars when you’re in the city!
11) 63rd & 1st
If you’re looking for a sophisticated and elegant night out, then 63rd & 1st is the place to be. Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, this bar boasts a luxurious atmosphere that is perfect for those who want to indulge in some premium drinks.
The drinks menu is extensive, with a wide selection of cocktails, fine wines and premium spirits to choose from. The bartenders here are true professionals, creating drinks that are not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Whether you want a classic cocktail or something a little more experimental, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
But it’s not just the drinks that make 63rd & 1st a must-visit bar. The decor is stunning, with a sophisticated Art Deco style that is both glamorous and stylish. The space is intimate and cosy, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
63rd & 1st is a great addition to Edinburgh’s nightlife scene, and definitely worth checking out if you’re in the city. With its premium drinks, beautiful decor and intimate atmosphere, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning of visitors.