Best Cocktails in Edinburgh

Best Cocktail Bars in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has established itself as a serious cocktail destination, with 12 reviewed venues across 5 neighbourhoods earning an impressive 8.7 average score — and 5 bars scoring 9 or above. The city punched onto the global stage when Panda & Sons was named World's Best Bar in 2025, but Edinburgh's strength lies in its depth beyond any single venue. From Bramble's underground speakeasy pioneering to Hey Palu's UK-leading amaro collection, from The Cocktail Geeks' immersive themed experiences to Nauticus's Scottish-sourced cocktails on the Leith waterfront, the scene is remarkably diverse for a city of its size. Edinburgh's cocktail bars are concentrated enough to explore in an evening — New Town alone holds five of the city's best — yet each neighbourhood offers a distinct character. The competition for quality is fierce, and the bartending community is tight-knit and collaborative, driving standards higher year on year.