Dragonfly, Edinburgh Travel Guide

Free Guide: Edinburgh’s stylish cocktail bar blending inventive drinks with a cozy, mysterious atmosphere near the Grassmarket.

A brief summary of Dragonfly

Edinburgh’s stylish cocktail bar blending inventive drinks with a cozy, mysterious atmosphere near the Grassmarket.

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh at 52 West Port, Dragonfly Cocktail Bar offers a unique and sophisticated drinking experience. Known for its imaginative cocktail menu and expert staff, this stylish venue combines a mysterious, cozy atmosphere with a welcoming vibe. Ideal for cocktail enthusiasts seeking creative drinks crafted with care, Dragonfly is a standout spot near the Grassmarket area, perfect for evenings filled with flavor and ambiance.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.5 Excellent · 730 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • MonClosed
  • TueClosed
  • Wed4 pm–1 am
  • Thu4 pm–1 am
  • Fri4 pm–1 am
  • Sat2 pm–1 am
  • Sun4 pm–1 am

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
52 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LD
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take Lothian Buses routes 21 or 22 from Edinburgh city center to the Grassmarket area, approximately a 10-15 minute ride. Services run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £1.80. From the stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to 52 West Port. Note that buses may be busy during peak hours.

Tram and Walk

Use the Edinburgh Trams from the airport or city center to Princes Street stop, then enjoy a 15-minute walk downhill to West Port. Trams run every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing about £1.80 for a single journey. The walk involves some cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes.

Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. This option is convenient for late-night returns when public transport frequency decreases.

Walking

From Edinburgh Old Town or Grassmarket, walking to Dragonfly is easy and takes about 10 minutes over mostly flat terrain with some cobblestones. This is a great way to soak in the historic surroundings before enjoying your evening.

Discover more about Dragonfly

A Distinctive Cocktail Haven in Edinburgh

Dragonfly Cocktail Bar is a celebrated venue located in Edinburgh’s bustling West Port area, close to the historic Grassmarket district. This bar is renowned for its innovative cocktail creations that blend unusual ingredients and flavors, offering patrons something beyond the ordinary. The cocktail menu is frequently updated, featuring unique combinations such as lemongrass, ginger, and coconut, or the popular Raspberry Ripple, showcasing the bar’s commitment to inventive mixology.

Atmosphere and Interior Character

The bar’s interior exudes a dark, mysterious charm that invites guests into a relaxed yet stylish setting. With a cozy mezzanine and a main bar area, Dragonfly provides intimate spaces perfect for socializing or quiet conversation. The ambiance is enhanced by subtle lighting and tasteful decor, creating an environment that feels both exclusive and welcoming. The vibe is cool and swanky, appealing to those who appreciate a refined yet approachable nightlife experience.

Exceptional Service and Expertise

A key highlight of Dragonfly is its knowledgeable and friendly staff, who are praised for their expertise and personalized service. Bartenders here are adept at crafting cocktails tailored to individual tastes, often going beyond the menu to create bespoke drinks. The staff’s passion and professionalism contribute significantly to the bar’s reputation, making each visit memorable and enjoyable.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 52 West Port, Dragonfly benefits from a central location that is easily accessible within Edinburgh’s city center. Its proximity to popular landmarks and entertainment venues makes it a convenient choice for pre- or post-event drinks. The bar operates primarily in the late afternoon and evening, with hours extending to early morning on weekends, catering to night owls and those seeking a sophisticated night out.

Community and Cultural Relevance

Dragonfly Cocktail Bar is more than just a drinking spot; it is part of Edinburgh’s vibrant social fabric. It attracts a diverse clientele, from locals to tourists, who come to enjoy its creative cocktails and warm atmosphere. The bar’s commitment to quality and innovation reflects Edinburgh’s broader cultural appreciation for craftsmanship and hospitality.

Memorable Experiences and Signature Drinks

Visitors often highlight the bar’s unique cocktail offerings and the engaging experience of watching skilled bartenders at work. The venue’s atmosphere, combined with its inventive drinks, creates a perfect setting for special occasions or casual evenings alike. Whether you seek a classic cocktail or an adventurous new flavor, Dragonfly delivers a memorable journey into the art of mixology.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · at 8am or at 9am or at 10am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 70% of the busiest month
  5. May: 80% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 90% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 70% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 60% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 60% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 30% of the busiest hour
  2. 1am: 20% of the busiest hour
  3. 8am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 9am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  5. 10am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  6. 11am: 20% of the busiest hour
  7. 12pm: 30% of the busiest hour
  8. 1pm: 40% of the busiest hour
  9. 2pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  10. 3pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  11. 4pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  12. 5pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  13. 6pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  14. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  15. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  16. 9pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  17. 10pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  18. 11pm: 60% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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