The best bars for cool and quirky cocktails in Edinburgh

When planning a visit to Edinburgh, staying at the Parliament House Hotel offers a comfortable and conveniently located base from which to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. For those with a liking for quirky cocktails, the city boasts a variety of bars that serve imaginative and unique drinks. Keep reading to find out some of the best bars where you can enjoy cool cocktails in Edinburgh.

The Bon Vivant

Located on Thistle Street The Bon Vivant a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. This bar focuses on presentation, offering visually stunning drinks and carefully crafted dishes. It combines elegance with a relaxed vibe, making it one of the best bars in Edinburgh. Whether you want a classic cocktails in Edinburgh or a modern variation, this bar delivers with style and sophistication.

Close up of two people cheering cocktails in bar or disco club drinks and cocktails concept.

Panda & Sons

Offering a unique experience from the moment you step inside. Panda & Sons is disguised as a barbers, the enterance to this stylish bar means walking down a staircase and entering through a bookcase. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of modern and classic influences in their cocktails. Each drink is inspired by ingredients from bars around the world. The hidden bar concept adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit and the quality of the cocktails here never disappoints.

The Cauldron Wizard Bar

For those who enjoy a bit of magic with their drinks, The Cauldron Wizard Bar is the place to be. This wizard themed bar offers cocktail masterclasses where guests wear cloaks, wave magic wands and create their own potions. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can simply book a table for drinks and enjoy the magical atmosphere. The Cauldron is perfect for those looking to add a touch of magic to their cocktail experience.

small skull-shaped bottle, orange mohito cocktail and barmen hand.

Somewhere By Nico

Somewhere By Nico brings a circus themed six course cocktail experience to Edinburgh. Opened in June 2024, this bar offers a unique concept that includes edible tarot cards and puzzles. The circus-themed adventure is available from July 22 to September 1 before the bar changes to its next theme. Make sure to visit this bar for quirky cocktails in Edinburgh.

The Cocktail Geeks

This is another bar that stands out for its ever-changing themes is The Cocktail Geeks. This entertainment-themed bar switches up its concept every few months, keeping things fresh and exciting. The current theme is Ice and Fire inspired by Game of Thrones. As a privately owned establishment, The Cocktail Geeks allows visitors to enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails while supporting a small local business.

Hoot The Redeemer

Set on Hanover Street this is another bar following a vintage fun fair theme. Upon entering the basement bar, you’re greeted by a fortune teller and her crystal ball. The bar itself is lively and fun, with a claw crane machine that allows guests to catch a ball with a surprise cocktail. Simply take the surprise cocktail ball to the bar and enjoy your drink. Hoot The Redeemer offers an entertaining atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out.

Fortune teller with illuminated crystal ball and tarot cards to prediction future. Hands of astrologists reading future and destiny. Horoscope and forecasting concept.

Badger & Co

Badger & Co is inspired by the works of Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame. This bar takes a traditional yet quirky approach to its food, drink and décor. The cocktail menu includes unique drinks such as Hot Toad Time Machine and Head Full of Honey, making it an fabulous drinks spot to visit.

Bramble Bar & Lounge

Finally, Bramble Bar & Lounge on Queen Street offers a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on finely crafted drinks. From classic cocktails to new inventions, this basement bar has something for everyons taste buds. With a reputation as one of Edinburgh’s go-to cocktail bars, Bramble Bar & Lounge is not to be missed.

Bartender is adding lemon zest to the red cocktail at bar counter.

After exploring the best bars for quirky cocktails in Edinburgh, return to the Parliament House Hotel for a restful night’s sleep. Book your stay today and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and convenience while discovering cocktais in this historic city.