Edinburgh whisky bars offer visitors and locals the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of Scotch and other whiskies from around the world.
Top Edinburgh whisky bars
With a long history of whisky production and a rich culture of whisky appreciation, there are few better places than Scotland’s capital city for whisky lovers.
From cosy traditional pubs to stylish modern establishments, Edinburgh has a diverse range of whisky bars to suit all tastes and budgets.
Many of these bars have extensive selections of whiskies and knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the perfect dram to suit your taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer to the world of whisky, Edinburgh’s whisky bars offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the best of Scotch whisky culture.
Some of the most popular whisky bars in Edinburgh include:
SCOTCH whisky bar (Balmoral Hotel)
The SCOTCH whisky bar at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh is a luxurious and elegant bar, best known for its extensive collection of rare and vintage whiskies.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, the bar is designed to showcase the rich heritage of Scotch whisky, with a classic decor of dark wood panelling, plush leather chairs, and a warm, inviting ambiance.
It boasts a selection of over 500 whiskies, including many rare and unique bottlings that are not available anywhere else.
Whisky lovers can choose from a range of single malts, blended whiskies, and exclusive bottlings specially selected for the Balmoral Hotel.
knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer advice and guidance on selecting the perfect dram.
Regular tastings and events are held throughout the year.
- Visit the SCOTCH whisky bar at the Balmoral Hotel, 1 Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
Usquabae Whisky Bar
Usquabae is a popular Edinburgh whisky bar located in the city’s New Town. The bar offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a stylish interior decorated with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and comfortable seating.
The bar has an extensive selection of over 450 whiskies from around Scotland’s five Scotch Whisky Regions, including single malt and blended whiskies, as well as lesser-known boutique brands.
Whisky enthusiasts can enjoy a dram from one of the bar’s carefully curated tasting flights or try something new by asking knowledgeable bartenders for a recommendation.
In addition to its impressive whisky selection, Usquabae also offers a range of cocktails made with Scottish ingredients.
Additionally, there is a wide selection of craft beers and wines.
The bar also serves a range of Scottish-inspired small plates and sharing dishes, perfect for pairing with your whisky.
Usquabae is also known for its regular events, including whisky tastings, masterclasses, and live music.
- Visit Usquabae whisky bar at 2-4 Hope Street, Edinburgh EH2 4DB (Since time of writing this business has now closed)
The Albanach whisky bar
The Albanach is a whisky bar located on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland.
It offers over 250 different whiskies from all regions of Scotland, as well as a selection of craft beers and Scottish gin.
The bar has a warm and inviting atmosphere with wooden decor, traditional tartan accents, and a cosy fireplace. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who are looking to sample some of Scotland’s finest whiskies.
In addition to its extensive whisky selection, The Albanach also serves traditional Scottish cuisine, including haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink, and steak pie.
The Albanach whisky bar also offers a variety of whisky tastings and flights to help guests explore the different flavours and styles of Scotch whisky.
The tastings may be led by a knowledgeable bartender who can provide information on the history, production, and tasting notes of each whisky.
- Visit the Albanach whisky bar at 197 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1PE
Devil’s Advocate whisky bar
The Devil’s Advocate is a popular whisky bar located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, known for its extensive collection of whiskies and delicious food offerings.
The bar’s interior is carefully decorated with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and cosy seating arrangements, making it an ideal place to enjoy a dram of whisky with friends or family.
In terms of whisky tastings, Devil’s Advocate offers a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Their standard tasting flight includes a selection of four whiskies, chosen to showcase the diversity of Scotland’s whisky regions.
They also offer premium tasting experiences, featuring rare and exclusive whiskies from around the world, as well as masterclasses led by knowledgeable whisky experts.
The food is equally impressive, with a menu of modern Scottish cuisine that highlights local, seasonal ingredients.
From classic pub fare like fish and chips and burgers to more sophisticated dishes like venison loin and haggis-stuffed chicken, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Overall, the Devil’s Advocate is a great destination for Edinburgh whisky lovers. With its welcoming atmosphere, impressive whisky collection, and delicious food offerings
- Visit the Devil’s Advocate whisky bar at 9 Advocate’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND
Teuchter’s Landing
Teuchter’s Landing is a popular whisky bar located in Leith, a vibrant neighbourhood in Edinburgh.
The bar is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the character of its surroundings.
The decor is understated and elegant, with exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and comfortable seating that creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
The bar has a large collection of whiskies from Scotland and around the world, with over 90 different varieties available, including rare and exclusive bottlings.
Teuchter’s Landing offers a variety of whisky tastings and flights, including a traditional Scotch whisky tasting.
They also offer a whisky and cheese pairing experience, which is an enjoyable way to explore the flavours of whisky and cheese together.
In addition to whisky, Teuchter’s Landing has a range of Scottish craft beers, as well as a menu of delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients.
The menu features classic pub fare like fish and chips and burgers, as well as more sophisticated dishes like smoked salmon pate and roasted vegetable and feta salad.
Overall, Teuchter’s Landing is a fantastic destination for whisky lovers visiting Edinburgh.
- Visit Teuchter’s Landing at 1c Dock Pl, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6LU
The Abbey Whisky Bar
The Abbey Whisky Bar in Edinburgh is a popular destination for whisky aficionados and offers a variety of whisky flights and tastings.
The bar has a warm and inviting atmosphere with traditional Scottish decor and serves a selection of food to complement their drinks.
The whisky flights at the Abbey Bar allow visitors to sample a range of whiskies, from different regions and distilleries, and are a great way to discover new flavors and styles.
The bar also offers whisky tastings for those looking for a more in-depth experience, with knowledgeable staff on hand to guide guests through the tasting process.
In terms of decor and atmosphere, then bar has a cozy, rustic feel with wooden paneling, exposed brick walls, and low lighting.
There are also plenty of whisky-related artifacts and memorabilia on display, adding to the overall ambiance.
Food is designed to complement the whiskies on offer, with a selection of snacks and light bites available.
The menu features classic Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as other pub-style fare.
Overall, The Abbey Whisky Bar in Edinburgh is a great place to enjoy a whisky flight or tasting in a cozy and welcoming setting.
The knowledgeable staff, Scottish decor, and tasty food all add to the experience, making it a must-visit for whisky lovers visiting the city.
