If you can’t tell by now how smitten I was by Edinburgh, then this must be the first thing you’re reading on my blog. Welcome! I loved Edinburgh.
Three nights in Edinburgh provided ample opportunity to explore the local bar scene, and I was so content at each of my choices that I thought I’d share them with you.
Now, go visit Edinburgh. Like, right now!
Curated Cocktails
With a menu of seasonally rotating drink options, along with tried-and-true options, Dragonfly Lounge has put itself on several “must drink” lists in Edinburgh. The ambiance is swanky, with a mezzanine level lined with black couches and local art. I definitely recommend the (balsamic thing) and my favorite drink of the night, Cool Runnings. The added bonus of a group of Scottish engineers to provide entertaining conversations is not guaranteed, but was a nice touch.
Whisky Wishes
You can’t go to Edinburgh without drinking whisky. But you don’t have to go on a Super Special Give Us All The Money In Your Wallet Whisky Tour to find delicious drams. Instead, make your way over to (whatever the bar was called) and get friendly with the bartenders. This is not hard, because they’re super friendly and at-the-ready to help you find a glass that you’ll enjoy. The bar was packed with locals on a Saturday night, and with a sign that reads “No Stag/Hen Dos” (Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties), you know you’ve found somewhere authentic.
Cozy Corners
I submit to you what I believe may be the cutest bar in the world. The Bar Under the Stairs is literally found under a set of stairs (there’s a very literal naming convention in Edinburgh) just a block or so from Grassmarket, and it’s the coziest bar you may ever find ever. Eclectic chairs, bench window seats, fish tanks and fireplaces, I felt like I was in every best friend’s living room, all smashed together. Go, sit, relax and enjoy.
Jazzy Jazz
What do you picture when someone says “jazz bar”? Is it dark, kinda small, with tiny tables, good drinks, and colorful clientele? Of course it is. And this bar is just that: small, dark, and perfect for an evening of listening. The night we were there, the ensemble was on-point, with saxophone licks and piano solos for days. A sizable drinks menu and purse hooks under the bar means you could set up for the night and never think twice about how you’re having a perfectly quintessential jazz-filled evening.
