Edinburgh’s obsession with gin continues to thrive and with the variety of tipples and tonics on offer it’s no surprise to us. The problem is deciding which of the many gin bars to choose from, so we’ve rounded up a selection of the best gin bars in Edinburgh which we think has something for everyone.
The Jolly Botanist
The Jolly Botanist is nothing if not quirky. The decor is modern industrial chic combined with old fashioned furnishings and artwork, creating an eclectic mix of real character. The cool surroundings practically earn The Jolly Botanist its place in this selection of the best gin bars in Edinburgh before we even open a menu.
Situated close to Haymarket Station, the bar is lively during the week, but is packed with twenty-something year olds at the weekends.
There’s a huge selection of gins on offer, together with the usual range of specialist tonics, as well as a list of gin based cocktails and an above average pub grub style menu and nibbles.
Address: 256-260 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3 8DT
Telephone: 0131 228 5596
Website: Jolly Botanist
One Square
This sophisticated modern bar, situated inside the Sheraton Grand Hotel on Lothian Road, oozes tranquility with sumptuous chairs arranged in clusters around small tables allowing a feeling of privacy to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The staff are friendly, but hotel-style professional and the clientele are generally a little older than in the more lively bars.
There’s a selection of over 90 gins to choose from, but if you’re struggling for choice why not try their gin tasting experience, with a selection of four gins paired with recommended tonics. The best gin bars in Edinburgh don’t come much more refined.
Address: 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR
Telephone: 0131 221 6422
Website: One Square
Heads and Tales
Tucked away on Rutland Square, Heads and Tales, has a more limited selection of gins, but does boast two on-site gin stills.
The mood in the bar is relaxed, with comfortable seating at large high tables, at the bar or even in a semi-private and cosy vaulted alcove.
Fun and informative masterclasses are available on a regular basis (booking required) when you’ll spend an hour sampling four gins paired with tonics and garnishes.
Address: 1a Rutland Place, Edinburgh EH1 2AD
Telephone: 0131 656 2811
Website: Heads and Tales
The Royal Dick
Somewhat off the beaten track, The Royal Dick was once a small animal hospital and this can be evidenced in its fittings, which are mixed with artwork from around the world.
The atmosphere is buzzing, but not overly lively and although there’s a limited selection of gins, it does have its own gin distillery and on-site brewery. The food at The Royal Dick is worth sampling and includes a good choice for vegetarians.
The other advantage of The Royal Dick is, of course, the many events on at Summerhall all year round.
Address: 1 Summerhall Place, Edinburgh, EH9 1PL
Telephone: 0131 560 1572
Website: Royal Dick
Panda & Sons
With the frontage of an old-fashioned barbers shop, it’s easy to miss Panda & Sons on Queen Street but once inside you’ll find a speak-easy style bar with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
The bar tenders in Panda & Sons are highly knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations from their wonderful cocktail list and for those feeling peckish the cheese and meat platters are a tasty sharing option.
Address: 79 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 4NF
Telephone: 0131 220 0443
Website: Panda and Sons
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