From those little cobbled streets to the abundance of intimate haunts, planning an amorous day out in the capital isn't hard. But while you could do the tried and tested formula, whether it be a first date or an anniversary, we've got a few tricks up our sleeves. Perfect for putting the spark in any outing, these romantic Edinburgh bars are ticking all the boxes; think impressive cocktails, low lighting, music sets and dreamy decor.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 18th September 2025
If you're looking for slick date night bars in Edinburgh city centre, Dragonfly is a great shout. Boasting stylish interiors, including chandeliers, intimate nooks and candlelight, it's the perfect place to get to know each other over cocktails.
Fronting sites in George Street and St James Quarter, The Alchemist is a dreamy destination for your next date night. Enjoy some smoking concoctions such as The Legal One or French Kiss before tucking into a lip-smacking menu of small bites. Our favourite? The panko halloumi is yummy.
Their Sunday Feast menu is a perfect choice for a relaxed yet indulgent meal. Priced at £25 per person, it includes a generous sharing board featuring buttermilk fried chicken, BBQ baby back ribs, pork belly bites, truffle tater tots, mac and cheese, and more, accompanied by house BBQ, garlic, and sriracha mayo dipping sauces. This hearty spread is designed for two, making it ideal for couples to enjoy together.
Have your date head over heels by taking them to one of the best secret bars in Edinburgh city centre, Bar Tonic. Featuring dark, moody hues and plenty of nooks to hide away in, it's a snug wee space to catch up over curious cocktails created by the talented team of mixologists.
The Register Club offers one of the most romantic bar experiences in Edinburgh. Situated in the heart of the Edinburgh Grand, this reservation-only cocktail bar exudes elegance, making it an ideal setting for a romantic evening out.
Whether you're sharing intimate cocktails by the window or enjoying a delicious meal, the luxurious décor and peaceful ambience create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable night with someone special.
Have a hot date on the cards? Make sure to impress the pants off them with your knowledge of the city's swishest spots. Located on George Street, Le Monde is a snazzy drinking den that holds a reputation for whipping up tantalising, internationally inspired tipples.
For a blooming experience that will make your heart skip a beat, head over to The Botanist. With their lip-smacking love potions like Hawaiian rum punch and garden mojitos, delicious bar snacks, and iconic hanging kebabs, you and your beau are in for a real treat.
An intimate bar and restaurant on the Royal Mile, PIGGS is a Spanish-inspired venue run by two brothers with a passion for the culture. This sultry spot is a real hidden gem, promising intimate, dark interiors and a friendly atmosphere.
You and your partner can share small plates like spicy artisan chorizo, patatas bravas and flat iron steak, to name just a few. As for the drinks, expect killer cocktails and one of the largest wine selections in the city.
Looking for a cracking date night spot? Dublin Street Social can be found in the New Town, featuring cosy, natural-looking interiors and a charming outdoor terrace, promising a welcoming neighbourhood feel throughout the week.
Get stuck into a menu of small plates, featuring the likes of bavette steak, Moroccan spiced chicken and tempura vegetables. To wash it all down? A top choice of wine, cocktails or draught beer.
A slick, intimate watering hole that's found beneath the streets of Edinburgh's New Town, Nightcap is one seriously hot spot for your next romantic outing. Think fun, quirky decor, neon lights and unique cocktails - a foolproof recipe for any successful date night.
Having welcomed everyone from Princess Anne to The Temptations over the years, it's clear that Elio's is somewhere truly special. This is a family-run venue that has been around since 1978, originally called Madogs before it was passed from father to son.
Their signature cocktails range from a blackcurrant jam-infused The Breakfast Club to a sweet The Tropics, with classics available too. Cosy up with your other half, while enjoying the warm atmosphere and even live music.
The Devil's Advocate is an atmospheric boozer found in the Old Town that is throwing romantic vibes our way with its flagstone floor and moody lighting. The former pump house isn't just about cool Victorian decor either, it also has a fantastic selection of whiskies for your date night sipping.
Looking for romantic rooftop bars in Edinburgh? Chaophraya might just do the trick. Sat high above the city, this restaurant and cocktail hub can sort you out with a selection of unique sips, which are perfect when enjoyed alongside the delicious Thai eats and gorgeous skyline views.
If you're on the hunt for date night bars, Black Ivy is a more than suitable spot. You'll get to enjoy everything from botanical cocktails to freshly brewed pints and delish wine. Plus, there's plenty of nibbles to get stuck into - think chilli fries and beetroot hummus.
Known for its massive selection of wine, Angels Share is one of the best date night bars in Edinburgh. The watering hole mixes old with new; think glitzy chandeliers and leather booths alongside monochrome prints. And if it goes really well? There are hotel rooms upstairs...
While a stellar choice for brunch, Rabble also transforms into one of the city's most amorous bars come nightfall. Pop over to Frederick Street and find the botanical hangout, which comes with a cocktail menu full of classics and a few tropical twists.
Flaunting intimate lighting, Art Deco features and even a slinky basement bar, Lady Libertine is the stuff of date night dreams. Head along to the suave space and enjoy some quality time over lush liquid libations, including cocktails, wines and beers.
Sharing a home with a local distillery, Heads & Tales is the place for a seriously banging G&T. And it's not just the drinks that will sort you out on your next date night in Edinburgh, this romantic haunt is also crammed full of cosy corners that are ideal for hushed chats.
If it's quirky bars in Edinburgh you're after, then head over to this beaut for an evening of swish cocktail sipping. Paradise Palms is a knick-knack haven, filled with bunting and records. It also has a curated lineup of exciting events on the go, with DJs regularly spinning top tunes.
A cool, intimate cocktail bar on Bread Street, Hey Palu is a top pick for date night. Owned by English-Italian duo Alex and Rachel Palumbo, this place takes its inspiration from Fellini's La Dolce Vita, flaunting dark decor and stylish brown leather seating.
The bar boasts close to 75 different types of Italian amari, vermouths and bitters, and their drinks menu has won them Best Cocktail Bar at the 2023 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, among other accolades.
If you're on the lookout for indoor date ideas in Edinburgh, sweep your beau off their feet with a trip to this secret bar. Panda & Sons is tucked away behind a bookshelf, and once you're in? The dapper little space fronts a collection of small tables, low lighting, and inventive cocktails.
Black and white tiles, neon signs and velvet touches help to make Lucky Liquor Co a slinky, romantic bar in Edinburgh. And if you're stuck for date night chit-chat? The list of inventive, quirky and downright strange libations should help things along.
Nestled on top of the Moxy Hotel in Edinburgh's Fountainbridge district, Lochrin is a stylish rooftop bar that looks out over the city from its heated outdoor terrace. Perfect for date night, this sleek spot boasts dark, sultry interiors and a killer cocktail menu.
Sip cool drinks like the salt and chilli-infused Lafayette, paired with a cheeseboard or scrumptious small plates. What's more, you can even find live music or screenings of classic films here on occasion.
