If you’re looking for a wee dram or two, you can’t go wrong with any of these places. Scotland’s Capital is brimming with bars and pubs serving the nation’s finest export. But, whether you’re a whisky aficionado or novice, there are some places you simply must visit.
These are the best whisky bars and pubs in Edinburgh, as ranked by their ratings on Google reviews.
. Whisky Bars Edinburgh .jpg
The best whisky bars in Edinburgh (Photo: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society/ Getty Images for Canva Pro) Photo: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society/ Getty Images
. The Vaults
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society's "spiritual home" is at The Vaults in Giles Street, Leith. Members and their guests can enjoy this lavish setting, dating back to the 12th century, and its "magnificent" selection of single cask whisky and spirits. Photo: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
. Usquabae
With a name inspired by a Rabbie Burns poem, Usquabae Whisky Bar and Larder is a cavernous basement tavern in Hope Street. Placing silver in Scotland's Whisky Bar of the Year Award 2019, it boasts more than 400 whiskies, as well as "outstanding staff" and a tasty menu. Photo: Google Streetview
. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Queen Street
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society's venue in 28 Queen Street, New Town, serves "distinguished flavours" of whisky and food in a Georgian townhouse setting. Each of its bars boast 500 exclusive single malts, and non-members can visit the Kaleidoscope bar, refurbished in 2020 - though booking is advised. Photo: SMWS
. Teuchters Landing
Found on the bustling Shore area of Leith, Teuchters Landing's renowned whisky selection and waterside setting make it hugely popular spot for locals. It also has an interesting background, the freehouse in Dock Place is the former waiting room of the Leith to Aberdeen Steamboat ferry. Photo: supplied
5. The Bow Bar
Bow Bar is an Edinburgh institution. Found in West Bow, in the heart of Old Town, it is a "no frills" old school pub which has won awards for its whisky offerings. Staff are described as friendly and knowledgeable about the extensive whisky selection. Photo: Google Maps
6. Amber restaurant
Amber restaurant is part of The Scotch Whisky Experience, just on the doorstep of Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy modern Scottish cuisine here while you sample the vast selection of whiskies on offer from "Edinburgh's best stocked whisky bar". Photo: Amber restaurant
7. The Devil's Advocate
The Devil's Advocate can be found in an old Victorian pump house in Advocate's Close, tucked away in Old Town. There is an eclectic selection of more than 300 whiskies available here - including many rare, one-off bottlings which come and go on a weekly basis - and a menu offering seasonal Scottish ingredients that change month by month. Photo: Till Britze
8. Whiski Rooms
Perched on the Mound, Whiski Rooms offers dramatic views over Princes Street. Choose from more than 300 malts at this multi-award winning bar and restaurant, and pop to the adjoining whisky shop which has rare and collectable whiskies on offer. Photo: Whiski Rooms