Edinburgh cocktail bars and inventive drinks to try

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What to expect

Settle in for a drinks-first visit where the making of the cocktail is part of the experience. You can watch the bartenders at work, ask for a recommendation, and choose from a list that favours creative combinations over standard pours. The welcome is notably thoughtful too, with dog guests often looked after straight away with water and treats. It suits anyone who enjoys a bar where the details are handled with care.

Plan your visit

Tell the team what flavours you usually enjoy, as they are good at pointing you towards the right drink. If you want a clear view of the preparation, pick a seat near the bar. It also works well as a stop when you want a focused cocktail experience rather than a long food-led evening.

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What to expect

A curated gin menu with classic and craft options, plus a few signature cocktails. Staff can guide tastings and suggest serves. Seating is informal, with counter spots and small tables. The atmosphere is relaxed and conversational rather than loud or clubby.

Plan your visit

If you're coming with a group, book ahead to secure a table. Ask the team for a tasting flight if you want to try several gins. Order small plates or snacks where available to balance stronger drinks. Mention any flavour preferences and let staff recommend a match.

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What to expect

A menu that mixes hearty small plates and more refined mains, often with bold flavours and thoughtful seasoning. Signature dishes mentioned by visitors include venison tartare, torched mackerel, gin-cured salmon, ox cheek and dishes such as chicken with corn purée or confit duck with cassoulet. Drinks lean creative, with twists on classic cocktails, a selection of beers on tap and a simple wine list. The space is softly lit and feels classy without being formal. Staff are described as friendly and attentive, happy to recommend dishes or drinks.

Plan your visit

Reserve a table for an evening meal, especially at weekends, or drop in earlier to try cocktails at the bar. Share a few plates if you want to sample more of the menu. Ask staff for pairing suggestions , they know the beers and house wine. Dress is casual-smart. If you have dietary needs, mention them when booking or on arrival.

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What to expect

Expect attentive bartenders who enjoy talking through choices, a compact and stylish interior with cosy corners for conversation, and contemporary music kept at a comfortable level. Drinks focus on flavour not flash, so presentation is restrained and refined. The atmosphere attracts locals more than tourists, creating a relaxed, unpretentious night out with thoughtful service, including careful handling of allergies.

Plan your visit

Head to Bramble in the evening to enjoy its intimate mood and spoken recommendations from knowledgeable bartenders. Ideal for a date or a small group, ask staff for flavour-led suggestions if unsure. The venue rewards quieter exploration, so arrive ready to savour drinks and conversation rather than a showy night out.

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What to expect

Expect a compact, characterful setting where skilled bartenders prioritise flavour, balance and presentation. Cocktails range from inventive off-menu creations to meticulous takes on classics, each served with showmanship. Friendly, personalised attention elevates the visit, though the close quarters mean service can feel very attentive at times. The soundtrack is carefully chosen to set a relaxed, chic mood. Booking a seat at the bar offers the best view of the craft.

Plan your visit

Book ahead to secure a bar seat, particularly for evenings when the small room fills quickly. Arrive ready to savour carefully crafted drinks and to discuss preferences with the bartenders. Mention seating needs when reserving, and plan for a relaxed, stylish atmosphere that suits couples, small groups or solo guests looking for a memorable night out.

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What to expect

Expect a straightforward menu focused on burgers, loaded sides and a few vegetarian options. The drinks list covers beers, casual cocktails and spirits. Seating mixes bar stools and simple tables. Service is informal and friendly. Music and conversation lift the atmosphere later in the day.

Plan your visit

If you're in a group, book ahead to secure a table. Solo diners can sit at the bar for quicker service. Ask staff about vegetarian choices and any current specials. Bring a flexible plan for evening drinks, as the space gets livelier after work. Wear smart-casual clothes; the vibe is relaxed.

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What to expect

Expect a lively, photo-ready venue: neon accents, disco balls and a striking bar set the scene for creative cocktails and casual plates. Music is upbeat yet conversation-friendly, and staff are approachable and happy to suggest flavours to try. The layout works well for groups, dates or solo visits, and the energy peaks during evenings and weekend brunches.

Plan your visit

Book ahead for peak times to secure a preferred spot, or drop in earlier for a more relaxed table. Perfect for groups or a stylish solo stop, allow time for photos and ask staff for recommendations to make the most of the menu and bar list.

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What to expect

A small, informal bar with a focus on cocktails and approachable service. The menu tends to be concise, with classic and seasonal options. Seating is a mix of stools at the bar and tables for groups. Noise levels are moderate, making it easy to chat without shouting.

Plan your visit

Arrive with an open mind and ask the bartender for a recommendation if you want something off-menu. For evenings, group sizes of four or fewer move around more easily. Take ID if you look under age, and consider booking a small table on busier nights.

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What to expect

A tightly curated cocktail menu led by expertly made espresso martinis, presented with flair and consistent quality. The interior blends plush seating and bold, patterned wallpaper, creating a playful but comfortable atmosphere. Staff are welcoming and attentive, able to look after small groups and couples with equal care. Arrive early for a quieter pace, or enjoy the energetic buzz later in the evening: either way, expect memorable flavours and an engaging bar experience.

Plan your visit

Book ahead to secure a table for groups, aim for an earlier arrival for a more relaxed pace, and save later evenings for livelier energy. Ideal for date night or meeting friends, leave room to savour a few inventive serves and soak up the quirky décor. Staff are happy to advise on menu highlights, making it easy to choose a tasting order.

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What to expect

Expect a cosy, low-lit hideaway where creativity is the point of service: bartenders listen to flavour preferences and craft one-off cocktails tailored to each guest. Seating is limited, the mood is relaxed and attentive staff add a playful touch of mystery. Perfect for lingering conversations, a romantic start to an evening or a chilled after-work drink, the atmosphere blends local regulars with curious visitors.

Plan your visit

Search for the discreet entrance, knock and wait to be invited in. Best enjoyed by couples or small groups, sitting at the bar makes it easier to chat with the mixologists and explain taste preferences. For a quieter experience, aim for early evening or mid-week, and allow the bartenders to surprise with a custom creation.

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What to expect

Step into a glow-in-the-dark space filled with classic cabinets, pinball machines and playful murals, all lit by neon and UV. Expect upbeat background noise from gamers and music, inventive cocktails served with a theatrical flourish, and staff happy to suggest games or tailor a drink. Popular machines can attract a queue on busier nights, while quieter periods make it easier to try something new. The venue suits catch-ups, date nights and anyone after something different from the usual bar scene.

Plan your visit

Visit with a small group to keep the competitive spirit going, arrive early if chasing specific machines, and alternate turns to avoid console hogging. Chat to the staff for game tips and personalised drink touches, and grab a few shots in the photo booth for a playful souvenir. Pack a relaxed attitude, patience during busy peaks, and a sense of fun.

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What to expect

Inside you'll find a compact space with a traditional pub layout and wooden seating. The bar serves a range of beers and basic pub drinks, and there are simple food options for a bite while you drink. Service is friendly and informal, and the mood shifts from relaxed daytime chatter to a livelier feel in the evenings.

Plan your visit

If you prefer a quieter table, aim for weekdays or earlier evenings. For a sociable night, come later or on a weekend and expect a busier room. Ask the bar staff for local ale recommendations and look for a window seat to watch the Grassmarket. Combine a visit with a short walk around the Old Town to make the most of the area.

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What to expect

A drinks-led spot where the emphasis is on casual drinks and conversation. Service is straightforward and the mood is relaxed rather than formal. You can come for a quiet drink by yourself, a catch-up with friends, or a low-key after-work drink with colleagues.

Plan your visit

If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for a weekday visit or an earlier slot. Go with a small group for the best seating options, and consider reserving if you're planning to bring several people. Check the venue's online listing for menus and any booking details before you go.

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What to expect

A small, informal dining room with plates designed for sharing or single-course meals. Expect modern British cooking with European touches, a concise wine list and a few cocktails. Service is warm and practical, and the room feels lively at lunchtime but comfortable for solo diners or business meet-ups.

Plan your visit

Reserve a table if you plan to visit at peak lunchtime or on weekends. Mention any dietary needs when booking, as the kitchen can usually adapt dishes. For a relaxed visit, arrive mid-morning or mid-afternoon when the room is quieter. Bring cashless payment, since most places there prefer card or contactless.

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What to expect

A bustling interior with several levels and different seating areas. A wide selection of beers and straightforward cocktails. DJs or live acts on select nights, which raise the volume and the crowd. Staff are practical and service moves at a steady pace.

Plan your visit

Check the venue's website or social pages before you go to confirm music and any entry arrangements. For groups, consider arriving earlier to secure seating. Bring ID if you plan to drink, and use contactless payment where possible. Pair a visit with nearby restaurants if you want dinner first.