Whether you think that gin is king or you'd rather sip on something sweet, Edinburgh has got the goods when it comes to knock-your-socks-off cocktails. From swanky hotel bars that will keep your glass full right through 'til the early hours to secret basement drinking dens and student-friendly spots, there's something for everyone here.
Whatever your taste, style or budget, our guide to the best Edinburgh cocktail bars will have you raising your glass and toasting to good times for many Fridays to come - so read on to discover your new favourite destination.
An absolute institution of cocktails in Edinburgh, Elio's is a family-run business that has been around since 1978. It has been passed from father to son, and over the years it has attracted some famous faces, from Princess Anne to The Temptations.
Their signature tipples are truly unique, from The Breakfast Club, featuring blackcurrant jam and vodka, to The Agave Orchard. The interiors are warm and traditional, and you'll often find live music here as well.
4th Floor, 33 Castle Street, EH2 3DN
A fantastic place for cocktails in Edinburgh, Chaophraya is a rooftop restaurant and bar offering unique drinks and gorgeous views of the city. Head up to their sky-scraping perch for signature sips and some of the best gin and tonics in town.
While you're savouring a pineapple and coconut sour or raspberry crush, snack on tasty Thai dishes like lamb massaman curry, salt and pepper squid or king prawn pineapple fried rice.
1 Little King Street, EH1 3AR
Looking for delicious drinks in the city? You're in luck over at The Botanist. The venue will be slinging out botanical signature serves such as the rhubarb bloom spritz and garden mojitos, alongside bar snacks, sharing boards and iconic hanging kebabs.
This is a beautiful spot to drink in too, ideal for date night. Expect pretty displays of foliage all over the bar, as well as rustic wooden furniture, glowing lights and huge windows that overlook St James Quarter.
34A N Castle Street, EH2 3BN
Bar Tonic is a top choice of hidden cocktail bars in Edinburgh, bringing everything from sultry interiors to quirky drinks. Better yet, you can expect your night to be accompanied by DJs spinning everything from disco to old school RnB between Thursday and Sunday.
They've got both cosy two-person tables and spaces for larger groups, and the quirky, newspaper-style menu has something for everyone. We recommend the Berry Poppins if you like fruity drinks - complete with elderflower, apple juice and pink gin.
25 W Register Street, EH2 2AA
Lady Libertine is one of the best cocktail bars Edinburgh city centre has to shout about. Not only does it have unrivalled elegance, from the Art Deco Features to the aperitivo bar, but also an expertly crafted cocktail list featuring classics with a fun twist.
There's both a ground floor space that looks out over St Andrews Square and a sleek basement space, each with their own drinks menu. Think white negronis, a chilli-infused Lemon Drop or the raspberry and grapefruit-based Summer Orchard.
3 York Place, EH1 3EB
Nestled beneath the New Town, Nightcap is an intimate hangout for sipping fun, inventive cocktails, including altered classics and signature sips. Our favourite? It has to be the Cloud 17, a sweet mix of raspberry vodka, white chocolate, vanilla and cream.
Their sultry atmosphere is perfect for date night, with a blend of cosy corners to relax in and a vibrant main bar space. There are also snacks like salted pretzels and fried giant corn to enjoy on the side.
113-115 George Street, EH2 4JN
With sites on George Street and in the Omni Centre, Slug And lettuce is promising 2 for 1 cocktails in Edinburgh every single day of the week. These Instagrammable pink bars are whipping up all sorts of creative concoctions, and they even offer bottomless brunches too.
If you're feeling peckish, you can also enjoy a range of tasty bites - we're talking bacon cheeseburgers, loaded nachos and fajita chicken pasta.
52 West Port, EH1 2LD
Upgrade your cocktail game at Dragonfly, Edinburgh's oldest bar. This best-loved venue is located within a former fire station and touts plenty of quirky touches, from unique chandeliers to potted plants. Visit on the weekend for late-night DJs playing dancefloor fillers, or swing by during the week for a more chilled vibe.
As for the drinks? Expect a range of signature and classic concoctions, with a few unusual ingredients thrown in. We're talking smoked pineapple tequila with coconut, or a black pepper and white tea concoction.
16 George Street, EH2 2PF
This boutique hotel bar is one of the city's most Instagrammable, thanks to its elegant interiors and chic New York-style vibe. Kitted out in pastel pink tones and luxe velvet furnishings, it's the ideal spot for a cocktail-fuelled girls' night out.
Sip on one of their many signature concoctions, from a Bacardi-based Icelandic Tango to the Whispering Willow made with lychee and ginger. They serve all the classics too, alongside sharing cocktails for £45.
414 St James Crescent, EH1 3AE
Having coined the term 'theatre served', you can guarantee that a night spent at The Alchemist isn't quite like anything else. Their sleek space is decked out in dark wooden furniture and green leather seating, which you'll enter via a lobby full of astrological projections.
Serving up smoking, popping and colour-changing libations, this St James Quarter bar is the perfect place to sip on some seriously snappable drinks. Plus, there's a site over on George Street too.
125 George Street, EH2 4JN
Marrying the luxury of a hotel bar with the quirk of an edgy pop-up, the beautifully decorated Tigerlily boasts one of the most impressive cocktail menus in town. It's one of the most popular choices for nights out, and they do a brilliant bottomless brunch as well.
Split up into various sections and using a wide range of different spices, fruits, spirits and liqueurs, the mixologists here are always looking to try new things with their innovative creations.
Fourth Floor, 42 St Andrew Square, EH2 2AD
Located on the fourth floor of the luxurious Edinburgh Grand apartment complex, The Register Club is an elegant cocktail bar and restaurant that works on a reservation-only basis. They pair historic details with stylish modern touches, with multiple different areas to drink and dine in.
Cocktails start from £12.50 each, with both classic and signature serves to choose from. Think tropical spiced Bacardi blends or vanilla and all spice concoctions, paired with tasty brunch plates or afternoon tea.
Escape the city streets with a cocktail or two at The Hoxton. Just a short hop from Haymarket station, Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town, it's a perfectly placed pitstop.
There's plenty to love on the cocktail list. We're talking lesser-known classics like Boulevardier and Old Cuban to modern icons like the Pornstar Colada Punch.
29-31 George Street, EH2 2PA
Whether you're after cocktail bars on Edinburgh's George Street or in the Exchange, you'll be met with stylish interiors, tantalising tipples and a range of hearty eats at All Bar One. Topping it off? The wicked cocktail classes and banging bottomless brunches.
There are so many concoctions to choose from, including a banana mai thai or the salted caramel old fashioned. You can also get your hands on an Aperol spritz tree, complete with four glasses for £40.95.
Manahatta is a cocktail lover's dream come true. Inspired by the Big Apple, their expertly crafted drinks menu features inventive, vibrant cocktails served in two dazzling bars across two floors. Whether you're sipping a classic or trying one of their unique, freshly revived creations, Manahatta's mixologists know how to deliver the perfect blend of flavour and style in an unforgettable setting.
5A Frederick Street, EH2 1LH
Rabble is a boutique bar, restaurant and hotel in the heart of Edinburgh. Offering something a little different to the city's collection of sultry drinking dens and leather-laden cocktail lounges, this place is bright and airy, with low-hanging botanicals and springtime sips.
While admiring your pretty surroundings, get stuck into a signature serve - and there are endless options to choose from. Think Cheeky Cherry Cola made with Kraken rum, a white grape sangria or even a whiskey blend made with salted caramel and nori seaweed.
7, 11 Hope Street, EH2 4EL
A hotel, bar and restaurant just off Princes Street, Angels Share houses an impressive whisky selection from across the country, and they know what to do with them. Head down for the chance to sample some sippable delights, bursting with unique ingredients such as the cherry and black rum concoction The Bonnie Banks.
It's not just the drinks that'll blow you away, as the interior is absolutely gorgeous. Cosy up on one of their plush leather sofas, surrounded by dark, moody decor and elegant chandeliers.
9 Advocate's Close, EH1 1ND
Situated in the heart of the Old Town, this charming cocktail bar is the ultimate stopping off spot for pre-dinner drinks, or a relaxed date night. Serving up a sublime selection of sips, their drinks mix simplicity and intelligence, with a fair amount of finesse, to make sure they always hit the spot.
Expect rustic wooden tables, a relaxed atmosphere and a collection of over 300 Scottish and world whiskies poured by award-winning bartenders. The Devil's Advocate has also been previously named as one of the Top 500 Most Influential Bars in the World, so you know it must be good.
18 W Register Street, EH2 2AA
Identified by its signature cherry blossom trees, Tattu is the Mint Building spot known for its stunning design, sumptuous Asian cuisine and elegant cocktails. Though it's primarily a luxurious Chinese restaurant, it's also a stunning spot for a few tipples with friends.
Each drink here has been hand-crafted by the team of expert mixologists. Our favourite? The Eastern Dragon - a gin, raspberry and Cointreau concoction that looks as good as it tastes.
31-35 Grassmarket, EH1 2HS
You might not expect it, but tucked in on the fifth floor of hotel Apex Grassmarket you'll find Metro, a gorgeous bar and restaurant with incredible views. Whether you fancy sipping on drinks while looking out over Edingburgh Old Town or you want to enjoy a hearty meal, this spot has just the thing.
Their signature cocktails start from as little as £7.50 each, with lots of classics on the menu as well. From a Long Island Iced Tea to the raspberry rosé, you'll be spoiled for choice.
16A Queen Street, EH2 1JE
New Town's most lauded cocktail bar, Bramble has more than proved its worth since being named among the UKs best in both 2023 and 2024, courtesy of the Top 50 Bars list. One look at their menu and you can see why though, as the drinks on offer go beyond the classics to bring together flavours and ingredients in perfect harmony.
The speakeasy-inspired basement venue has been around since 2006, known for its soundtrack of soul and jazz. Whether you're in the mood for a Shadowman, made with whisky and chamomile, or the rum and pineapple Golden Road, there's so much to be discovered here.
1820 Rooftop Bar is a standout cocktail bar in Edinburgh, renowned for its expertly crafted whisky cocktails, including exclusive blends like the Johnnie Walker Black Ruby.
Set within the Johnnie Walker Princes Street centre, the bar offers a sleek, contemporary setting with spectacular city views and a menu that pairs locally sourced Scottish cuisine with fine whisky. Whether you're indulging in classic or innovative cocktails, this rooftop bar delivers a sophisticated experience with breathtaking surroundings.
1a Rutland Street, EH1 2AD
Home to some of the city's finest shakers and master mixologists, the Heads & Tales team have crafted a superb cocktail menu of unique and moreish tipples, from twists on the classics, to something entirely different. On top of that, they've got one seriously impressive gin list that would humble even the most knowledgeable juniper junkie.
The cosy space is tucked away in Rutland Place, featuring secluded alcoves that are available for private hire and sultry low lighting. And as they share a home with Edinburgh Gin Distillery, you can even watch the distilling process as it happens in front of you.
39A Queen Street, EH2 3NH
One of the coolest cocktail bars in Edinburgh city centre, this relaxed and informal spot on Queen Street brings the heat with its very unique drinks list. It's an unassuming-looking building on Queen Street, but its stellar reputation means you certainly won't miss it.
Expect twists on classics like the rhubarb negroni, or switch it up completely with a whisky and chai vermouth blend, or a mixture of gin, basil, lime and celery bitters.
79 Queen Street, EH2 4NF
Styled as a vintage barbershop, Panda & Sons is one of Edinburgh's few purpose-built speakeasy bars. Sitting just off Charlotte Square, guests will find a basement drinking den decorated with vintage chairs, Victorian male grooming guides and a truly creative cocktail menu to rival any.
Live out your Prohibition dreams here, while admiring the unique tipples that have been made with freeze-dried ingredients and premium spirits.
44 Saint Stephen Street, EH3 5AL
Make your way to Stockbridge to discover The Last Word Saloon, a cosy lounge space that offers a wide variety of whiskies. Expect comfy leather armchairs, rustic brick walls and a roaring fireplace, perfect for an intimate drinking session.
Their cocktails start from £9.50 each, with cracking mocktails on the cards too. Think smoky cherry vodka blends or a maple and tonka whisky concoction, with something to suit all tastes.
Having won Molinari Hotel Bar of the Year at the 2024 Scottish Bar and Pub Awards, it's clear that Lochrin is something pretty special. This stylish rooftop haunt can be found in Fountainbridge, offering views of the city from its heated outdoor terrace.
There's a fantastic cocktail menu on offer, featuring signatures like the One O'Clock Gun Martini or a chilli-infused Lafayette - which you can pair with a selection of small plates. What's more, they host live music and even classic film screenings at this elevated spot.
Nauticus in Leith is a standout spot that celebrates all things Scottish, from its locally sourced spirits to its rich maritime-inspired interiors. Set in a former bank, this award-winning bar is steeped in history and character, offering a drinks menu that champions homegrown whisky, gin and beer.
Founded by a trio of industry heavyweights - including Iain McPherson of Panda & Sons fame - it's a must-visit for cocktail connoisseurs looking for expertly crafted serves in a venue that's as passionate about its heritage as it is about its hospitality.
Having won Best Cocktail Bar at the 2023 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, it's clear that you're in good hands with a trip to Hey Palu. This charming spot is inspired by Fellini's La Dolce Vita, in its aesthetic, featuring dark interiors and leather bar seating.
Run by English-Italian duo Alex and Rachel Palumbo, this venue promises warm hospitality with years of experience. Plus, the bar offers nearly 75 varieties of Italian amari, vermouths and bitters.
49-50 George IV Bridge, EH1 1EJ
If you're on the hunt for the best cocktail bars in Edinburgh's Old Town, McGonagall's Gin & Whisky Emporium should be firmly on the radar. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this cosy haunt is a must for sampling gin and scoffing traditional fare that includes haggis, Highland chicken or mac 'n' cheese.
They describe themselves as 'purveyors of fine malts and delicious botanicals' and we can see why - their drinks offering includes everything from a strawberry gin sour to the Johnnie Walker Blue old fashioned.
41 Lothian Street, EH1 1HB
Throwing bunting, huge indoor plants, kitsch antiques and vibrant tropical cocktails all into one snug venue, Paradise Palms on Lothian Street is the Edinburgh party bar that refuses to sit still. They host late-night DJ sets on a regular basis, and earlier in the day you'll also find award-winning vegetarian food from Lucky Pig.
While the decorations continue to get louder and more outrageous, the drinks menu follows the same path, featuring tipples that'll make you feel as if you're on a Polynesian beach.
161 Lothian Road, EH3 9AA
Lychee pornstar martinis, illegal negronis and spicy peach-infused margaritas are just some of the sips on offer at this brilliantly bizarre cocktail bar. However, it's the espresso martinis that The Raging Bull is most well-known for - take your pick from salted caramel, pumpkin spice and toasted marshmallow variations of the coffee libation.
The colourful space is filled with quirky ornaments, bold floral wallpaper and posters of famous musicians. They also offer cocktail masterclasses, so you can try your hand at making these sips for yourself.
