Panda & Sons: Edinburgh’s Prohibition-Era Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
Step into Edinburgh’s secret speakeasy beneath a vintage barbershop for theatrical cocktails and timeless 1920s charm.
Nestled beneath Edinburgh’s Queen Street, Panda & Sons is a stylish speakeasy cocktail bar disguised as a vintage barbershop. Renowned for its theatrical, expertly crafted cocktails and immersive 1920s ambiance, it offers a unique drinking experience with attentive service, cozy low-lit interiors, and quirky touches like free popcorn and secret bookcase entrance.
A brief summary to Panda & Sons
- 79 Queen St, Edinburgh, EH2 4NF, GB
- +441312200443
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-1 am
- Thursday 4 pm-1 am
- Friday 4 pm-1 am
- Saturday 2 pm-1 am
- Sunday 3 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the bar is popular and seating is limited.
- Try the Birdcage cocktail for a dramatic presentation with cinnamon and clove smoke.
- Enjoy the complimentary popcorn while you explore the extensive and story-rich cocktail menu.
- Inform staff of any dietary preferences; they offer thoughtful recommendations including vegan options.
- Arrive early on weekends to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere before it gets busy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Panda & Sons location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Panda & Sons
A Hidden Gem with a Vintage Barbershop Facade
Panda & Sons cleverly conceals itself behind the guise of a traditional barbershop on Queen Street. Visitors enter through a classic storefront, complete with barber chairs and a striped pole, before descending a staircase to a secret door disguised as a bookshelf. This theatrical entrance sets the tone for a night steeped in Prohibition-era charm and mystery.Immersive 1920s Speakeasy Atmosphere
Inside, the bar exudes a classy, nostalgic vibe with low lighting, plush seating, and staff dressed in vintage attire, including bow ties. The ambiance is enhanced by subtle details such as paper-striped straws and carefully chosen glassware. Complimentary bowls of uniquely seasoned popcorn add a playful touch to the experience, inviting guests to relax and savor their surroundings.Innovative and Theatrical Cocktail Craftsmanship
Panda & Sons is celebrated for its creative cocktail menu that reads like a novel, each drink telling a story and crafted with precision. Signature concoctions like the smoky Birdcage served under a glass cage with cinnamon and clove smoke, or the fruity yet dry Wild Horse Canyon, showcase the bar’s dedication to both flavor and spectacle. The bartenders are knowledgeable mixologists who tailor recommendations to individual tastes, making each visit personalized and memorable.A Culinary and Social Experience
Though primarily a cocktail bar, Panda & Sons offers a modest selection of accompaniments such as a cheeseboard with oatcakes and pork rinds, as well as toasted baguette slices with dipping oils. The bar’s intimate size and table service encourage conversation and connection, making it a favored spot for couples, friends, and cocktail enthusiasts seeking an engaging night out.Commitment to Quality and Detail
Every element at Panda & Sons is thoughtfully curated—from the choice of ingredients and cocktail recipes to the bar’s backstory and decor. The attention to detail extends to accommodating dietary preferences, with staff prepared to suggest vegan-friendly options. The bar’s reputation for excellent service and a unique atmosphere has made it a standout destination in Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Panda & Sons stands as a testament to Edinburgh’s evolving cocktail renaissance, blending historical influences with modern mixology. Its speakeasy concept not only offers a nod to the past but also provides a distinctive cultural experience that enriches the city’s bar scene, attracting both locals and visitors eager to explore inventive drinks in an evocative setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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East Princes Street Gardens
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Scott Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
St. Bernard's Well
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St. John's Church Hall
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Heriot Row
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The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
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Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Ross Fountain
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A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Rose St
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A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Panoramic view Castle
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Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Stockbridge Market
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Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
Assembly Rooms
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Circus Lane
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Princes Street Gardens
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Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Princes St
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Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Edinburgh New Town
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Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
Essential places to dine
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Contini George Street
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Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
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Forage & Chatter
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The Pompadour
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Purslane Restaurant
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Six by Nico Edinburgh
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Amarone
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TIMBERYARD
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The Palmerston
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The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Scottish Design Exchange
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The Treasure Trove
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Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
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ScotlandShop
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Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
One World Shop
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Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
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Those Were The Days Vintage
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Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Greyfriars Art
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A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
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Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Portcullis Gift Shop
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Great Scot
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Unicorn Antiques
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Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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PDT Please Don’t Tell
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The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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La Belle Angele
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
