The Best Cocktail Bars in Edinburgh. My Personal Guide

People often ask me where I like to go for drinks when I’m not at Nectar. Edinburgh has grown into a seriously strong cocktail city over the years, and what I love most is how different each venue feels.

This isn’t a ranked list, and it’s definitely not about competition. These are simply bars I respect, places I’ve enjoyed, and venues that contribute something special to the city’s cocktail culture.

Here are the cocktail bars in Edinburgh I genuinely think are worth your time.

If you're interested in how I determine what a great cocktail bar is to me, have a look at my previous article.

Panda & Sons

You can’t talk about cocktails in Edinburgh without mentioning Panda & Sons.

They’ve been recognised globally multiple times and were even named the number one bar in the world in the Top 500 Bars list, alongside major wins at international awards and strong placements in the World’s 50 Best Bars rankings.

What impresses me most is their technical precision. Their use of ice, freezing techniques and flavour manipulation is on another level. It’s not just about showmanship; it’s about pushing cocktails forward while keeping them drinkable.

It’s world-class work happening right here in Edinburgh. Go check them out.

Hey Palu

Hey Palu is one of those bars that people travel to the city for.

They’ve gained national recognition and continue to elevate Edinburgh’s cocktail scene with a strong identity and fantastic execution.

What I admire is how focused they are. The menu feels tight, intentional and full of personality. It’s a reminder that a smaller space with a clear vision often creates the strongest experience.

The Blind Tiger

A true Broughton Street local.

If you ask me when to go, Fridays for live jazz or Saturdays for a DJ are the way forward. The atmosphere changes depending on the night, but it always feels welcoming. And yes, get the olives. You’ll understand why once they arrive.

For me, this is one of those places that feels like part of the neighbourhood rather than just another bar.

We always recommend booking a table with the guys down the road. You can do that here.

Uno Mas

Uno Mas is the late-night option around the corner from us.

It’s the place you end up when you’re not quite ready to go home yet. Great energy, good music and exactly the kind of spot that keeps a night moving. It’s also been recognised locally as one of Edinburgh’s top late-night venues, which says a lot about how consistently fun it is.

I’ll be honest, I’ve had more than one last drink there after closing.

Nauticus

If you want a bar that truly celebrates Scottish produce, Nauticus is hard to beat.

Their focus on local spirits and Scottish identity gives the menu a real sense of place. They’ve been recognised within industry lists highlighting top cocktail bars in the UK, and it’s easy to see why.

It feels authentic to Leith, and that’s something I respect deeply.

Bittersweet Leith

Bittersweet Leith is doing something genuinely unique.

Their connection to Old Poison distillery allows them to create flavours that feel completely their own. There’s a lot of experimentation happening here, but it never feels forced. The creativity is real, and the recognition they’ve been receiving nationally shows that people are paying attention.

If you enjoy bars that push boundaries, this is one to watch.

Bramble

Bramble has been part of Edinburgh’s cocktail DNA for years.

It’s the kind of place that understands atmosphere just as well as drinks. Live DJs, a lively crowd and a menu that stays consistent without feeling repetitive. You can feel the history when you walk in, and that’s not something every bar achieves.

For many people, this is where their Edinburgh cocktail journey begins.

Vivienne

Another speakeasy-style venue on Broughton Street, and literally across the road from us.

Vivienne keeps things slick and focused. The menu is clean, the execution is sharp and the experience feels polished without losing warmth. It also makes Broughton Street perfect for a small bar crawl without needing to travel far.

Tonic

Tonic is one of those places that captures the energy of a night out in Edinburgh perfectly.

Small, cosy, and often busy in the best way. It’s a bar that doesn’t try to be overly complicated. It simply delivers good drinks and a great vibe, which is sometimes exactly what you want.

Lucky Liquor

Lucky Liquor feels like a bit of a hidden gem.

Slightly off the main routes, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a great place to sit down, have a proper conversation and enjoy cocktails without feeling rushed. Some nights call for energy, others call for calm, and Lucky Liquor fits that second mood beautifully.

And of Course… Nectar

I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I’m proud of what we’re building at Nectar.

For me, the goal has always been to create a space where food and cocktails sit side by side naturally. Something inspired by Mediterranean beach bars, where you can arrive for dinner and stay for drinks long after.

Edinburgh’s cocktail scene is stronger than ever, and I genuinely believe that every one of these venues contributes something unique to the city. Have a look at our menu here.

The best nights usually don’t happen in just one place anyway.

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