Panda & Sons

Secret Entrance and Speakeasy Allure

Step into the unassuming barbershop facade at 79 Queen Street, where faded signs advertise 25p haircuts and shaves—a playful nod to the bar's whimsical theme. Descend a short flight of stairs to a concealed door masquerading as a bookshelf. Pull the magical book, and the portal swings open to reveal Panda & Sons, a true Prohibition-style speakeasy transported to modern Edinburgh. This hidden access builds anticipation, immersing visitors in a world of secrecy and sophistication from the moment they arrive.

Theatrical Cocktails and Creative Mastery

The bar's cocktails are the undisputed stars, each a meticulously crafted spectacle blending rare ingredients, innovative techniques, and dramatic presentations. Signature drinks like the Birdcage arrive shrouded in cinnamon-clove smoke under a glass cage, lifting to release aromatic clouds over Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve, rhubarb shrub, and Aperol. Wild Horse Canyon offers a fruity-sour balance of Gentleman Jack, plum-basil compote, fresh orange juice, and absinthe whispers. From barrel-aged Boulevardiers with deep, puckering bitterness to smoked whiskey bells and takeout-container rums topped with cucumber noodles, every pour tells a story of mixological ingenuity led by owner Iain McPherson.

Narrative Menu and Panda Family Saga

Unfurling the drinks list feels like opening a novel, with chapters dedicated to the fictional Panda lineage—barbers and bootleggers whose escapades weave through global spirits and family lore. Recipes intermingle with tales of adventure, from macabre barber pole origins to exotic ingredient quests. This storytelling elevates the experience beyond mere drinking, inviting guests to savour narratives alongside sips of mezcal sours, grilled pineapple gingers, or papaya-infused exotics. The menu's thickness belies its charm, rewarding patient readers with personalised recommendations from expert staff.

Intimate Ambiance and Attentive Service

Inside, low lighting casts a warm glow over plush chairs, eclectic decor, and barber-themed touches like striped poles and leather seats. Bow-tied servers glide efficiently, delivering endless bowls of complimentary piri-spiced popcorn, topped-up water, and flawless table service. The soundtrack hums with subtle jazz-era vibes, fostering a relaxed yet stylish mood ideal for intimate conversations. Small plates like cheeseboards with oatcakes, dipping oils, pesto toasts, and pork rinds complement the libations without overshadowing them.

Edinburgh's Cocktail Vanguard

Panda & Sons stands as a pinnacle of Edinburgh's cocktail renaissance, blending heritage craftsmanship with avant-garde flair in the heart of the elegant New Town. Open evenings through late nights, it draws those craving elevation from pint-and-shooter norms into a realm of refined indulgence. Whether hiring an alcove for groups or claiming a cosy corner, the bar delivers consistent excellence in an ever-evolving drinks landscape.