Best Local Bars and Nightlife in Edinburgh: Authentic Scottish Drinking Spots Away from Tourist Crowds

This Scottish pub offers excellent beer selection with creative options like raspberry wheat beer and sours. The atmosphere is relaxed with wood tables, stone walls, and unique hanging bat decor. Staff are friendly and helpful, willing to modify cocktails for dietary needs. Great whiskey selection including Arran single malt.

Limited food options with a tiny vegan menu and no hot dogs available. Kitchen closures are common. The exterior doesn't look particularly inviting. Service can be standard rather than exceptional. Prices are somewhat high at over £12 for two drinks.

The pub features attractive decor with exposed brick walls and cozy corners creating a nice atmosphere. Northern Monk runs the establishment offering several quality beers on tap plus guest options. The venue maintains a lively, busy atmosphere that many patrons enjoy. Staff members are friendly and helpful.

Food service is extremely slow with wait times over an hour, even when half empty. Menu options are very limited and uninspiring, resembling a children's menu. Food arrives cold, undercooked, and lacks basic seasoning. Drinks are overpriced at £8 per pint. The venue appears tired and needs maintenance work.

Visitors praise the exceptional beer selection and knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations. The wood-fired pizzas receive consistent acclaim for quality ingredients and perfect crusts. Many appreciate the spacious layout and vibrant atmosphere.

Some guests find the venue too loud during peak hours. Wait times for food can be lengthy when busy. A few visitors mention that prices are higher than typical Edinburgh pubs, though most consider it reasonable for the quality offered.

Bramble offers exceptional cocktail craftsmanship in an intimate underground setting with dim lighting and cozy atmosphere. Expert bartenders create balanced, inventive drinks alongside perfect classics. The signature Bramble cocktail impresses visitors. Staff provide knowledgeable service without pretension, offering helpful recommendations. The unique menu caters to all tastes in this essential Edinburgh speakeasy.

Some visitors found cocktails didn't meet high expectations, with ingredient balance falling short of perfection. The decor received mixed reviews, with one reviewer noting it wasn't the best. Experienced cocktail enthusiasts may find the drinks merely good rather than exceptional, creating a somewhat disappointing experience for those with very high standards.

This basement cocktail bar delivers excellent drinks and welcoming service in a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere. Staff greet guests warmly and attentively refill drinks. The standout feature is 90s RnB and hip hop music with weekend DJs that keeps people dancing. Visitors appreciate the speakeasy vibe and return multiple times during trips.

Management may handle incidents poorly, with reports of entire groups being banned without warnings for individual mistakes. Some guests felt discriminated against based on race, citing disproportionate treatment compared to other patrons. The experience left certain visitors feeling humiliated and unwelcome at the venue.

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional cocktail quality and skilled bartenders who create perfectly balanced drinks. The atmospheric basement setting receives frequent compliments for its intimate, speakeasy ambiance. Many highlight the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations.

Common complaints include difficulty securing tables due to limited seating and no reservations policy. Some visitors mention higher prices compared to typical Edinburgh bars. Occasionally noted issues with slow service during busy periods and cramped conditions.

Large outdoor courtyard perfect for sunny days, with live music and comedy shows during Edinburgh Fringe. Great atmosphere for watching sports with friendly staff enforcing no club colors policy. Reasonably priced drinks including unique house-made Pear Tree Summer Ale brewed with pears from their garden.

Food quality disappointing with overpriced toasties at £9 and mac and cheese at £12 served in cardboard containers. Staff can be grumpy and unattentive, with orders sometimes forgotten. Service feels rushed despite quiet periods, making it better for drinks only.

The Pear Tree offers a good selection of draught beers including Blue Moon. Staff can be friendly and efficient during quieter periods. The beer garden features quality pizza from an outdoor stall that impresses visitors. The venue has an impressive big screen TV for outdoor viewing and was once considered an Edinburgh institution.

Service quality has declined significantly with rude, unhelpful staff who roll their eyes at customers. Drinks are overpriced at £7+ per pint but served flat and in wrong glasses. Tables are dirty with spilled drinks. No dogs allowed outside despite unclear signage. Kitchen often closed with limited food alternatives to pizza.

Visitors praise the massive outdoor space and beautiful beer garden setting. Many highlight the generous food portions and reasonable prices. Staff receive frequent compliments for being friendly and attentive. The relaxed atmosphere appeals to families and groups seeking casual dining.

Some guests report slow service during peak times and busy weekends. Food quality can be inconsistent, with occasional complaints about overcooked meals. Limited indoor seating disappoints visitors during poor weather. Noise levels from large groups sometimes detract from the experience.

This Edinburgh pub delivers authentic atmosphere inside a converted old church with rustic charm. Locals frequent this spot for excellent cask ales from regional breweries and quality whisky selection. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering tastings without pretension. Food highlights include tasty burgers and fish and chips. The authentic pub experience attracts respectful crowds.

Weekend evenings get crowded making seating difficult. Some beers don't meet expectations despite the extensive selection. Advertised weekday lunch specials may not be honored at checkout, leading to disappointment over pricing. The busy atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights can detract from the otherwise pleasant experience.

This Scottish pub offers excellent classic ales and local alternatives in a comfortable, quiet atmosphere. The fish and chips receive high praise, particularly the beer battered fish. Many guests find it a welcoming spot to share pints, with great ambiance that makes it a neighborhood favorite.

Multiple visitors report extremely rude and disrespectful staff behavior. Bartenders have been described as obnoxious, making hand gestures behind customers' backs and shouting at patrons. The unwelcoming service creates an unpleasant atmosphere that contradicts the pub's promise of friendliness.

Visitors praise the stunning Gothic architecture and unique atmosphere created by the church setting. Cocktails receive high marks for creativity and quality, with bartenders demonstrating impressive skill and knowledge. Many highlight the excellent service and knowledgeable staff.

Some guests find prices steep for cocktails, even by Edinburgh standards. Occasional complaints about slow service during busy periods. A few visitors mention the venue can get quite loud when crowded, making conversation difficult.

Traditional pub offers excellent beer selection including quality cask ales and diverse spirits. Staff consistently praised as friendly and welcoming to solo travelers. Famous oversized nachos are a highlight - massive portions with generous toppings that easily serve 2-3 people. Relaxed atmosphere with good music.

Food prices considered high for portion sizes received. Keg beers receive mixed reviews with some finding them mediocre. Nacho prices have increased significantly while portions have decreased. Limited customization options as most items are premade with standard spice levels only.

Great atmosphere with friendly dogs around. The famous vegetarian nachos are a massive portion that impressed visitors. Chinese food received excellent reviews with delicious flavors and outstanding service. Some found the beer selection decent despite higher Edinburgh prices.

Beer quality declined significantly since Covid with poor maintenance and overpricing. Limited beer selection from unknown breweries. Unwelcoming staff, cramped seating, and age restrictions create poor atmosphere. Nachos disappoint with too many jalapeños, little cheese, and dry chili. Slow service and kitchen delays.

Visitors praise the authentic Scottish atmosphere and friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome. The whisky selection impresses connoisseurs, while the traditional pub food receives consistent acclaim. Live music adds to the genuine local experience that tourists seek.

Some guests find the interior quite dark and cramped during busy periods. Limited food menu options disappoint diners seeking variety. Service can be slow when the pub fills up with crowds, particularly during festival seasons.

This Edinburgh pub offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and great beer selection at reasonable prices. Features multiple rooms including a cinema space with projector for movie nights. Popular quiz nights create a buzzing social scene. The authentic local vibe attracts mixed crowds who enjoy good music and comfortable seating.

Some staff members display unprofessional behavior and cocky attitudes. One bartender was reported laughing at customers without ID and showing disrespectful conduct. Visitors may encounter staff on power trips that negatively impact the service experience despite the generally positive atmosphere.

This cozy pub offers excellent service with friendly, professional staff who create a welcoming LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere. Guests praise the tasty food, great music, and good selection of beers and spirits at reasonable prices. The quirky character adds charm, and it serves as a venue for fringe festival shows.

The wine quality disappoints visitors, and the pub needs better cleaning. Bar staff can appear unfriendly with sour attitudes. The quirky beds seem bizarre to some guests. Limited space means it gets uncomfortably crowded when busy, making it difficult to enjoy drinks comfortably.

Visitors praise the lively atmosphere, extensive sports coverage, and friendly staff. Many highlight the excellent value for money, with affordable drinks and substantial food portions. The multiple screens ensure great views of games from anywhere in the venue.

Some guests complain about overcrowding during major sporting events, making it difficult to find seating. Others mention slow service during peak times and occasional issues with food quality. The noise level can be overwhelming for those seeking quiet conversation.

Excellent burgers with many combinations and reasonable prices. Staff can be friendly and helpful when properly staffed. Great beer selection with about 24 options. Food quality impresses visitors, with Scottish specialties like haggis bon bons getting praise. Popular local spot away from tourist areas that draws repeat customers.

Service inconsistent - can be slow and indifferent when understaffed, with staff ignoring customers. Music often too loud for conversation. Some servers lack knowledge about menu items. Service quality depends heavily on timing and staffing levels, making visits unpredictable.

Visitors praise the excellent craft beer selection and knowledgeable staff who provide great recommendations. The food quality receives high marks, particularly the elevated pub dishes and generous portions. Many appreciate the cozy atmosphere and friendly service that makes both tourists and locals feel welcome.

Some guests mention the venue can get quite crowded during peak times, making it difficult to find seating. A few reviews note that service can be slower when busy, and prices are considered higher than typical Edinburgh pubs, though most agree the quality justifies the cost.

Traditional pub with cosy wooden interior and leather furnishings. Excellent rotating selection of draft and bottled beers, ciders, and exceptional whisky including monthly malt specials. Friendly, welcoming staff create a pleasant atmosphere. Very dog-friendly with clean facilities and street views.

Kitchen frequently unavailable with no food service, only crisps offered. Large groups not permitted. Limited dining options may disappoint visitors expecting full meals. Some may find the no-food policy restrictive for longer visits.

The Stockbridge Tap offers excellent beer selection with good quality ales at reasonable prices. The traditional pub has a nice atmosphere where locals gather. Some visitors found staff welcoming and helpful, providing sound advice on drink choices. The venue maintains well-kept beers in a classic pub setting.

Staff attitude is consistently poor with many described as grumpy, rude, and intimidating toward non-regulars. Service is slow with staff prioritizing conversations over customers. Management practices questionable policies like advancing clocks to close early after taking money all night. No food available.

Visitors consistently praise the high-quality food, particularly the fresh fish and chips and perfectly cooked steaks. The friendly, knowledgeable staff receives frequent compliments for attentive service without being intrusive. Many appreciate the cozy atmosphere and excellent selection of local beers and whisky.

Some guests mention occasional long waits during peak hours, particularly weekend evenings. A few reviews note that portion sizes can be inconsistent, and the noise level sometimes makes conversation difficult when the venue is busy. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some diners.

Unique bar set in a converted old church with stunning Frankenstein-themed decor. Three levels of seating with horror movie atmosphere featuring monster statues and paintings. Friendly staff serves fantastic cocktails at good prices. Hosts special events and monster shows. Great selection of merchandise and decent food options.

Can get crowded due to popularity. Food service is extremely slow - 40 minute wait for simple pizza order even when quiet. Better suited for drinks than dining. Restrooms need better maintenance and cleaning. Private events sometimes limit access to certain areas like the basement level.

Frankenstein's Pub delivers an electric Frankenstein-themed atmosphere that captivates visitors. The decor creates an immersive monster experience throughout. Drinks are inventive and well-crafted, with properly chilled Guinness. Food quality impresses guests. The unique lab bar setting offers something truly different. Family-friendly environment keeps children entertained.

Service suffers from significant delays and staff indifference. Food delivery timing creates frustrating waits between meals, with no apologies offered. Limited menu focuses heavily on pizza options, disappointing some diners. Staff display a couldn't-care-less attitude that ruins the dining experience for groups.

Visitors praise the incredible theming and attention to detail throughout multiple floors. Staff receive high marks for staying in character while providing excellent service. The atmosphere creates unforgettable experiences perfect for special occasions and group celebrations.

Some guests find prices higher than typical Edinburgh pubs. Food quality can be inconsistent during busy periods. The theatrical nature may feel overwhelming for those seeking a quiet drink. Service can slow down significantly when crowded.

This unique underground bar offers multiple themed rooms with great cocktails and reasonable prices. Built on historic vaults with paranormal history, it features free cinema, live music, ghost comedy shows, and excellent acoustics. The atmospheric venue combines different experiences with awesome music and intimate vibes.

The venue doesn't serve food, so visitors need to eat elsewhere before arriving. This appears to be the main limitation mentioned by reviewers.

Quirky underground rock bar with spooky atmosphere and interesting decor. Features multiple rooms to explore, small cinema space, live music events, and horror film screenings. Good music always playing with lively atmosphere. Popular Halloween destination with regular events. Reportedly haunted location adds to unique character.

Staff accused of racist behavior by some visitors. Unisex toilets poorly lit and feel unsafe, particularly for women. Some harassment incidents reported, though staff did intervene when notified. Dark unstaffed bathroom areas create security concerns for guests.

Visitors praise the unique atmospheric setting and historic character of the building. Many appreciate the extensive selection of Scottish whiskies and local beers. The live music events receive positive feedback for showcasing emerging talent. Staff friendliness and knowledge of the venue's history enhance the experience.

Some guests find the layout confusing due to multiple levels and rooms. Food quality receives mixed reviews with complaints about slow service during busy periods. The venue can become overcrowded, especially during festival season. Noise levels from live music can make conversation difficult in adjacent areas.

Exceptional cocktail bar with knowledgeable staff who create custom drinks based on personal tastes. Two-story space features great decor and mezzanine seating with bar views. Staff are friendly, well-trained, and efficient even during busy periods. Menu offers unique creations alongside classic cocktails. Spacious interior with excellent lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere.

Reviews mention cocktails have quite strong tastes, which may not appeal to all preferences. No other significant negative aspects were noted across the customer feedback provided.

This converted firehouse bar offers exceptional cocktails with creative flavors and attentive, welcoming staff. Guests love the upscale yet relaxed Manhattan-style atmosphere. Half-portion drinks let you sample more of the menu. The venue features spotless facilities, a function room, and creates a non-touristy local feel just steps from Grassmarket.

No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the reviews provided. All reviewers expressed highly positive experiences with the venue's atmosphere, service, drinks, and overall experience.

Guests praise the innovative cocktails and knowledgeable bartenders who create custom drinks. The Asian fusion food receives acclaim for fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Service quality consistently impresses visitors with attentive staff.

Some diners find prices steep for portion sizes offered. Wait times can extend during peak hours, especially weekends. Limited seating occasionally creates crowding issues when busy.

Great food with generous portions and excellent quality, especially spicy chicken burger, sweet potato fries, and creamy mash. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about whisky selection. Good atmosphere for quiz nights and football crowds. Clean facilities, comfortable booth seating, and solid beer selection including ciders.

Significantly overpriced drinks compared to nearby pubs. Non-alcoholic cider costs £5.90 versus £3.80 elsewhere. Limited craft beer selection. Atmosphere varies dramatically from nearly empty to overcrowded on football days. Won't draw visitors specifically to the area due to inconsistent experience.

Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere with good pub food and wide drink selection. Online booking available and dog-friendly venue. Great spot for watching sports matches with quality ales on tap. Games provided for entertainment and generous portion sizes with two-for-one food deals.

Food quality can be severely disappointing, particularly the overpriced steak dishes. One reviewer received a tiny, poorly cooked steak for £18 that was burnt outside and rare inside. The meat quality and chef skills were questioned, leaving customers feeling embarrassed and scammed.

Guests praise the exceptional whisky selection and knowledgeable bartenders who provide excellent recommendations. The sophisticated atmosphere and quality cocktails receive consistent acclaim, with many noting the intimate setting and professional service.

Some visitors find the prices quite steep for drinks and limited food options. Occasionally mentioned concerns include slow service during busy periods and the small venue size making it difficult to find seating.

Guests rave about the stunning historic grounds and beautiful rooms with luxury touches. The afternoon tea features delicious pastries and fresh combinations, while breakfast offers high-quality ingredients. Staff are incredibly kind and attentive, treating guests like royalty even when arriving late. The restaurant serves Michelin-star quality food in a magical, quintessential setting that transports visitors back in time.

Service can be inconsistent with long waits for food and inattentive staff. One guest waited an hour for afternoon tea service after being seated, had to remind staff about missing items, and struggled to get their bill. Despite reservations, basic requests like water were forgotten, and no apologies were offered for the poor service experience.

Prestonfield House offers excellent food and lovely presentation in beautiful drawing rooms. The peacocks and Highland cattle on the grounds add charm. Tea and drink selections are impressive. Many guests enjoy the pleasant atmosphere for special occasions and find the overall experience wonderful.

Seating can be uncomfortable with awkward furniture arrangements including crocodile-skin chairs and chest tables. Service issues include long waits, delayed seating despite reservations, and kitchen running out of ordered items. At £120, some feel afternoon tea offers poor value compared to other options.

Visitors praise the extraordinary decor and luxurious atmosphere that feels like stepping into a palace. The cocktail quality receives high marks with creative presentations. Staff professionalism and attentive service consistently impress guests seeking upscale experiences.

Some guests find prices steep even for Edinburgh standards. The formal atmosphere may feel intimidating to casual visitors. Limited seating can result in waits during peak times, and the dress code requirements deter some potential patrons.

The Huxley offers excellent food with standout fish & chips, crispy chicken burgers, and Scottish breakfast. Fresh ingredients and generous portions impress diners. The Princes Street location provides stunning Edinburgh Castle views. Staff deliver warm, friendly service in a cozy atmosphere with quirky decor. Dog-friendly environment adds appeal.

Service can be frustratingly slow even when the restaurant isn't busy. Some dessert items like brownie icing may be overly sweet for certain tastes. Coffee temperature requests aren't always followed properly, with drinks served lukewarm instead of extra hot as requested.

Exceptional staff provide attentive service, helping with luggage and making restaurant bookings. Rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and comfortable with castle views. Perfect location near Princes Street for walking to Edinburgh Castle and Old Town. Peaceful despite central location. Excellent breakfast and highly recommended Kyloe steakhouse on-site.

One reviewer experienced poor service at The Huxley bar when a staff member named Leah reportedly asked paying guests to leave the premises after a complaint about an improperly made cocktail. This incident overshadowed an otherwise positive stay and resulted in the guests vowing never to return to the hotel.

Guests consistently praise the exceptional cocktails and knowledgeable bartenders who create personalized drinks. The food receives high marks for quality ingredients and creative presentation. Many reviewers highlight the intimate atmosphere and attentive service that makes special occasions memorable.

Some visitors find the prices steep for the portion sizes offered. A few reviews mention slow service during busy periods. Limited seating can result in lengthy waits without reservations. Some guests feel the atmosphere can be overly formal for casual dining experiences.

Cold Town House offers spectacular castle views from its rooftop terrace, perfect for sunny days. The fish and chips are consistently excellent, crispy and fresh. Staff provide exceptional service with genuine hospitality, even offering complimentary birthday treats. The multi-level venue features live music, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Popular dishes include loaded fries and Caesar salad.

Some staff members can come across as snobbish, which detracts from the otherwise positive dining experience. The venue appears to have limited issues based on reviews, with service inconsistency being the main concern mentioned by visitors.

Visitors praise the lively atmosphere and friendly staff, particularly Nathan who provides welcoming service and engaging conversation. Drinks arrive quickly and the food receives high marks. The location gets positive mentions from travelers who plan to return on future Edinburgh visits.

Service issues plague some visits with extremely long waits for drinks and food that arrives cold and flavorless. The terrace view disappoints due to decorative elements blocking sightlines. Staff struggles to handle customer volume efficiently during busy periods.

Visitors praise the exceptional beer quality and innovative brewing techniques. The rooftop views receive constant acclaim, especially during sunset. Staff knowledge about beer pairings impresses diners consistently. The building's architecture and brewing equipment displays create memorable dining experiences.

Some guests find prices higher than typical pub fare. Service can be slow during peak tourist seasons. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some diners. The busy atmosphere may not suit those seeking quiet dining experiences.