Best Bars In Edinburgh

While Angels Share may be one of the best hotels in Edinburgh, they're also harbouring one of its fanciest bars too. A plush location for gastro fare, expert bottles of whisky, decadent drinks and more, they're an exceptional choice for a sophisticated night out. 

Looking for a beloved boozer promising affordable bites and classic cocktails alike? Skip on down to George Street as the Slug and Lettuce welcomes guests with contemporary interiors and pocket-friendly prices. Try their Omni Centre offering if you're exploring elsewhere.

Serving over 200 different types of whisky, it's no wonder that The Devil's Advocate has carved such a cool reputation for itself. This unique bar in the heart of the Old Town is brimming with liquid knowledge, sleek interiors and lush history. 

Boutique boozing at one of the best hotel bars in Edinburgh, Le Monde is a wonderland of glistening interiors, bottles of bubbly and sophistication. A must for those looking to enjoy a glass of Champers over the sweet sounds of live music, there's also a late-night club for when the sunsets.

Based on Edinburgh's famous George IV Bridge, Frankenstein is a pub like no other, drawing in crowds from all over thanks to its distinctive haunted theme. Mad about all things Victor Frankenstein, the venue is fittingly decorated with props from the movie and its very own electric chair. 

Belushi's is the ultimate sports bar in Edinburgh and the only place you should be tuning into football's most exciting games. With delicious food, cheap drinks, live music and a vibrant, lively atmosphere, every night here is a hoot. 

Looking for Edinburgh's best craft beer bar? Lothian Road has what you need as BrewDog offers over 20 sips to choose from alongside burgers, snacks and moreish puddings. A favourite among students and locals alike, you can't go far wrong with this causal spot. 

One of Edinburgh's most Instagrammable spots, Rabble is a wonderland of greenery, sleek marble counters and turquoise hues. A popular venue for a girls' night out, this swish bar serves a luxe offering of oysters and vintage Champagne, as well as a menu of signature cocktails. 

The Alchemist is bringing its menu of theatrical cocktails to the heart of Edinburgh. Enjoy signature concoctions that fizz, steam and flame before your eyes, all against a backdrop of lavish gold and black setting, it really is an Instagrammers paradise. There's also a site on George Street.

Beneath the streets of Edinburgh lies Nightcap, a quirky basement bar that's slinging out heady cocktails and superior wines. Head on over to the sultry spot that's decked out with exposed brickwork and neon lights to indulge in an evening of terrifically tasty tipples.

A taproom and bottle shop rolled into one, Wee Vault is one of the coolest bars in Edinburgh. Head on over to sample and buy all kinds of delicious brews, from rare guest beers to mouthwatering meads. And if that's not for you? This joint also stocks fabulous wine, ciders and more.

Looking for a top-notch boozer? Then be sure to check out The Three Sisters. Located in the heart of the Cowgate, this fabulous haunt is offering up a range of entertainment and sports events, alongside a crackin' menu. 

After the best hidden bars in Edinburgh? Bar Tonic is the cocktail spot that has you covered for sultry interiors, delish concoctions and DJs brings tunes from Thursday to Sunday. They'll be spinning everything from old school RnB to disco.

When it comes down to Edinburgh's best joints, Dragonfly is a firm choice. Situated in an old fire station in West Port, this top-notch drinking den has the richest history in the city. Step inside, where you'll be greeted with tasty drinks, chandeliers and plants galore.

DogHouse Edinburgh is the place to go if you fancy a tasty craft beer, as it boasts 30 taps of the good stuff, including both BrewDog and guest brewery creations. Plus, it boasts a lip-smacking array of burgers and wings to complement your tipple.

Situated in the heart of the city, Lady Libertine is an elegant drinking den that boasts two floors oozing with elegance. While surrounded by Art Deco features, knock back a range of tasty tipples, from signature cocktails and wines to beers and ciders.

When it comes to Edinburgh bars, Brewhemia is a top choice. Make your way inside this drinking den, where you'll be met with plenty of delicious beer, floral displays, copper chandeliers or Apres-themed decor. As for the food? Get stuck into fusion Alpine and Scottish bites.

All Bar One is the place to go for lip-smacking tipples. But that's not all, as this joint is also home to cocktail masterclasses, fantastic bottomless brunches, plus a tasty menu of tapas, burgers and more. Find it in Clydesdale Bank Plaza and on George Street.

Boasting hanging plants and ambient lighting, The Botanist is one of Edinburgh's best bars - and with good reason. The venue has a plethora of lip-smacking cocktails from Hawaiian rum punch to garden mojitos and espresso martinis.

When it comes to drinking destinations in Edinburgh, it doesn't get better than Black Ivy. Boasting  cascading wisteria, vintage chandeliers, and an American coin floor, the beaut also has a lovely list of cocktails and beer to match.

Flight Club Edinburgh is a beautiful bar in St James Quarter, complete with interactive dartboards offering all sorts of multiplayer games. You can get your hands on fun cocktails here too, as well as brunch socials with bottomless pizza every weekend.

Looking for something a little different on your next night out? Then head to NQ64 on Lothian Road, where you can get competitive over all kinds of nostalgic fun. This neon-splattered bar is complete with 27 retro arcade machines, which you can buy tokens for behind the bar, as well as video games consoles that are free to use.

Choose from Street Fighter, Time Crisis 3, Guitar hero and so much more, while sipping on themed cocktails like a Lemmingade of the Aku Aku Fruit Punch, paired with cheesy slices from Pizza Geeks.

The Lioness of Leith can be found on the site of a former derelict pub that had a dark history to it, having transformed the space into a welcoming boozer. Expect rustic decor like wooden tables, dark brick walls and rope running along the bar, with arcade machines to play.

They were voted Leith's Best Bar in their first year of trading, and there's a cracking selection of local and international drinks to choose from. You can also enjoy food from Burger Mama, who are slinging out 100% Scotch beef, chicken and plant-based patties topped with everything from spicy jalapeno sauce to chipotle mayo.

A true gem among Edinburgh's vibrant bar scene, The Register Club blends historical charm with modern luxury. Located on the fourth floor of the prestigious Edinburgh Grand, this reservation-only spot offers guests a chance to sip on expertly crafted cocktails surrounded by stunning interiors.

With its elegant décor and refined atmosphere, The Register Club stands out as one of the best bars for those looking to enjoy an elevated drinking experience, whether you're popping in for a casual drink or celebrating a special occasion.

Step into Manahatta on Rose Street and instantly escape to downtown Manhattan's electric nightlife. This stylish two-floor bar dazzles with plush leather seating, neon lights, and lush floral accents, making it one of Edinburgh's must-visit spots for a night out. With its cool party vibe, Manahatta perfectly blends an upbeat atmosphere with chic New York-inspired design, ideal for anyone looking to elevate their bar experience in the city.

Perched on George Street, Elio's is  cool cocktail bar that has been around since 1978, when it was founded as 'Madogs'. This is a family-run venue that has become a real Scottish institution over the years, having welcomed everyone from Princess Anne to The Temptations in the past.

They changed the name after the business was passed from father to son, and their drinks menu is still just as unique. Expect the likes of a Mexican Root or an Irish espresso martini, as well as all the classics. As for the interiors, think warm lighting and dark decor, with regular live music to boot.

A National Pub & Bar Awards winner, owned by renowned Irish publicans the Keane family, Malones Leith is all aged wooden interiors, Guinness murals and a long line of local staples and guest ales on the pumps.

Alongside the Black Stuff, you can order up a host of Irish whiskeys, fines wines and its own-brand Smugglers gin and vodka. The menu covers pub classics with an Irish twist, plus the finest locally caught seafood served up by head chef Ruxi Mirton-Teng, formerly of the Michelin-starred Heron restaurant.

Coyote Ugly Edinburgh is where you should go for good times and cocktails. With the drinks flowing, tunes blasting, and bartenders who are practically performers, this is where the city's nightlife truly comes alive.

Visit for a night that's as loud as it is legendary, whether you're hitting the town solo or with your friends. There's also line dancing lessons, bottomless brunches and themed events to attend. 

A Bellfield Brewery bar, Nobles has served local brews to the community since the 1890s. Today, its dark wood finishes and low lighting give off plenty of old world charm.

The tradition of serving great ale is still proudly intact too. Its pumps are home to 14 rotating keg lines of Bellfield and guest craft beers.

One of the most exciting haunts for Mexican food and drinks, this South Andrew Street spot is our go-to for street food plates and boozy refreshments. With a vibrant mix of tequila and mezcal cocktails available, Wahaca is a winner when you need a midweek pick-me-up. 

A cutesy and broody cavern brimming with cool vibes, Bramble is a go-to cocktail bar for those who like their drinks with a dash of mixology magic. With lush seating, romantic corners and cutting-edge creations, it's no wonder that this is an award-winning venue. 

Famed for their grand selection of gin and rum, Scottish-brewed beers and impressive Edwardian-inspired dining room, many would say that the Voodoo Rooms is a bar that needs to be seen to be believed. Don your finest gladrags and shimmy on down for a night to remember.

One of the most loved secret bars in Edinburgh, Panda & Sons are known for their creative cocktail list and vintage charm. This hidden haunt is a stage of smoke-filled bell jars and mixology theatrics - perfect for those date nights where you're looking to impress. 

Lucky Liquor Co is the place to head for anyone chasing down some of the city's most weird and wonderful concoctions. Home to a crack team of expert mixologists, this bar lets the drinks do the talking (and trust us, they've got a lot to say).

Pooch-friendly and proud, The Last Word Saloon is one of Edinburgh's most laid-back bars. With their dashing whisky selection, roaring fires and a top-notch wine list, this basement lair is the perfect spot for huddling away from the city's winter climes.

A stylish wee joint on the West Crosscauseway, 56 North is a bar for those looking for fuss-free fun. A relaxed venue where homemade burgers are purse-friendly and gin cocktails are free-flowing, this cosy neighbourhood spot is the perfect pitstop after a day of exploring the city.

Toting 6 casks, 14 keg lines and 120+ bottles and cans of beer, The Hanging Bat is a must-try for those with strong hop hankerings. Located on Lothian Road, this rustic bar is decked out with comfy leather sofas, quaint picnic tables and twinkling candles when dusk falls.

A sexy wee nook in the heart of Rutland Place, Heads & Tales is one of the best gin bars in the city. Boasting two on-site stills, they are not only conjuring up craft magic, they're also rustling up a top selection of cocktails. 

Looking for affordable boozing, American-inspired grub and a soundtrack of commercial beats and thumping feet? You'll want to head to Revs - one of Edinburgh's most popular student spots, toting an enviable selection of food and cocktails at budget-friendly prices.

A haven for local beer and fresh pizza, Cold Town House is a true gem in Edinburgh's bar scene. Kick back with one of their kooky craft beers from the onsite brewery and a slice of pizza while taking in the stunning views from their rooftop terrace. 

From live DJs to freshly cooked dishes and an epic selection of beer on tap, OX184 is the perfect late night spot. Soak up cracking drinks in industrial-style surroundings that bring a real chilled out vibe to the historic Old Town.

Renowned for shaking up some of the best espresso martinis in Edinburgh, The Raging Bull is a must for all cocktail-lovers. Located between the West End and Grassmarket, the bar whips up a range of caffeinated concoctions, including salted caramel, hazelnut and orange versions.

Tattu is one of the city's most stylish spots. Decked out with low-hanging cherry blossom and intricate mahogany furnishings, this Asian-inspired venue boasts some serious wow-factor. Get stuck into the cocktail list here whilst nibbling on wagyu dumplings and crispy kale seaweed.

One of the quirkiest bars in Edinburgh, McGonagall's Gin & Whisky Emporium is a haven for sipping spirits in the city. This haunt specialises in botanical mixes, delicious Scottish cuisine and regular events which include pub quizzes, board games and sport screenings. 

Designed by Jestico + Whiles, W Lounge is one of the most stunning drinking destinations in the city. Not only can you admire Edinburgh's skyline from this rooftop bar, but there are also striking interiors too - from the 12-metre granite monolithic bar to the adorned ceiling.

Take a set in one of their plush armchairs to enjoy killer cocktails, featuring all sorts of unique ingredients. Hungry? They serve up scrumptious plates like cured Scottish salmon, crispy chicken salad or North sea spiced cod.