Cocktail heaven at Mansfield Traquair tonight

Head down to the Mansfield Traquair on Mansfield Place between 6pm and 11pm to savour a selection of the best cocktails the Capital's mixologists have to offer, including this the 2016 Cocktails in the City 'Best Cocktail', the Jack Daniels No 7 based The Ballad of Cat Ballou, created by bar manager Josh Ramsay of The Blackbird on Leven Street.

After the success of last year’s event, the advice is to get there early. Eighteen of the city’s finest cocktail bars will each have their own pop-up bar, showcasing signature drinks and the theatre of cocktail making.

The 2016 participants are Treacle, Heads & Tales, Bar Soba, Juniper Bar, Bryant and Mack, Malmaison, The Blackbird, Nightcap, The Voodoo Rooms, Panda & Sons, Hoot The Redeemer, The Whistle Stop Barber Shop, Badger & Co and guest London bar, The Cocktail Trading Co.

In the spirit of friendly rivalry, participating bars have been asked to create a cocktail inspired by A Taste of Edinburgh. Drawing on the city’s history, heritage or local produce, the challenge is to devise a drink that sums up Edinburgh in a Glass.

Entertainment will include interactive cocktail masterclasses and a resident DJ providing the sound track to the night.

Tabara N’Diaye, event organiser says, “Every year we challenge ourselves to build on previous festivals and make each event even better than the one before.

“This year we’re delighted to welcome the highest number of bars we’ve ever had at Cocktails in the City Edinburgh.

“Many of these bars are new to the city which makes it a great opportunity to check out the new talent on the block as well as sampling a real taste of Edinburgh.”

Cocktails In The City, Mansfield Traquair, Mansfield Place, tonight, £12, www.cocktailsinthecity.co.uk