Best Bars near Bruntsfield Links

The Blackbird is a vibrant gastropub located at 37-39 Leven Street in Edinburgh, known for its welcoming atmosphere, unique cocktails, and a large, mostly covered beer garden. It offers a modern Scottish menu featuring gourmet burgers, fresh fish, and hearty salads, complemented by craft beers and fine wines. Its exposed stone walls and tavern-style interior create an authentically Scottish ambiance, making it a popular spot for casual dining and social gatherings.

The Argyle and Cellar Bar is a lively, moderately priced pub located at 15-17 Argyle Place in Edinburgh. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it offers a great selection of local cask ales, quality pub food, and regular live music events in its cozy cellar venue. The bar combines a relaxed upstairs pub with a vibrant downstairs cellar, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Scottish pub culture.

Located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh, The Raging Bull is a stylish cocktail bar renowned for its expertly crafted drinks, especially its signature Espresso Martinis. With a funky, colorful interior and a welcoming vibe, it offers both lively upstairs spaces and intimate downstairs areas, perfect for socializing or enjoying free Fringe shows. The bar also hosts cocktail masterclasses, making it a hotspot for both casual visitors and cocktail enthusiasts.

SKYbar Edinburgh is a stylish rooftop cocktail bar located at 34 Bread Street in the heart of Edinburgh. Known for its sweeping panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Fife coast, it offers a sophisticated weekend venue to enjoy expertly crafted drinks and limited edition cocktails. The bar features plush seating, a relaxed atmosphere, and is part of the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre complex, making it a prime spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out.

Nestled in Edinburgh’s historic West Port, Dragonfly Cocktail Bar is the city’s oldest cocktail venue, famed for its innovative drinks, cozy yet lively atmosphere, and expert staff. Set in a former fire station, it offers a unique blend of classic charm and contemporary mixology, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking quality and character in the heart of Scotland’s capital.

Located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom is a spacious, modern bar renowned for its extensive craft beer selection and hearty Scottish steak frites. This lively venue offers a welcoming atmosphere with full table service, live music, and a menu focused on robust pub classics, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking quality brews and comfort food near theatres and cinemas.

BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road is a vibrant bar and brewery located in a striking former bank building on Edinburgh’s Festival Square. Known for its extensive selection of craft beers on tap, innovative cocktails, and a menu featuring legendary burgers and wings, this spot combines industrial-chic ambiance with a lively atmosphere. It welcomes families, dogs, and craft beer enthusiasts alike, offering both indoor and outdoor seating in Edinburgh’s dynamic West End.

All Bar One Exchange Plaza is a stylish, contemporary wine bar located in the heart of Edinburgh on Lothian Road. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and a diverse menu of drinks and sharing plates, it is a popular spot for after-work gatherings and casual meetups. Conveniently close to Haymarket and Princes Street, it offers a modern, welcoming space with a moderate price range.

Ballie Ballerson in Edinburgh was a unique cocktail bar and party venue famous for its giant mirrored ball pit and vibrant nightlife. Located at 14 Forrest Road, it combined playful fun with creative cocktails and lively DJ sets in a historic Grade B listed building. Though it closed permanently in October 2024, it remains a memorable part of Edinburgh’s nightlife scene for its immersive atmosphere and innovative concept.

NQ64 Arcade Bar in Edinburgh is a vibrant, neon-lit venue blending retro arcade gaming with expertly crafted cocktails. Located on Lothian Road near the old town, it features 27 arcade machines, 2 pinball tables, and 5 retro consoles, alongside a menu of themed cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. Open late every day, it offers a lively atmosphere perfect for gaming enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike, with food served by Pizza Geeks until 9pm.