The Cocktail Geeks
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Tucked into a historic arch beneath Edinburgh's East Market Street, The Cocktail Geeks delivers immersive, rotating themed cocktail experiences. Creative drinks, from boozy masterpieces to inventive mocktails, pair with geeky pop culture motifs like Stranger Things and Jurassic Park. Passionate bartenders craft flavorful concoctions in a cozy, atmospheric space perfect for evenings out. Wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly for over-18s.
A brief summary to The Cocktail Geeks
- Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh, EH8 8FS, GB
- +441315571224
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-12 am
- Thursday 3 pm-12 am
- Friday 3 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Opt for the gamble cocktail for a themed surprise tailored by the bartenders.
- Check social media for current theme updates and limited-edition drinks.
- Arrive early for weekends to snag prime seating in the intimate space.
- Bring ID as over-18s policy is strictly enforced.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Cocktail Geeks location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Cocktail Geeks
Immersive Themes in a Historic Arch
Nestled in Arch 14 under the Jeffrey Street bridge, The Cocktail Geeks transforms a vaulted stone archway into a portal for pop culture adventures. The bar's rotating themes draw from beloved franchises, enveloping guests in detailed decor that captures the essence of worlds like the Upside Down from Stranger Things or the prehistoric jungles of Jurassic Park. Atmospheric lighting and custom artwork create a cave-like intimacy, where every corner whispers stories from screen and game lore.Craft Cocktails with Geeky Precision
The menu showcases inventive cocktails tailored to each theme, blending premium spirits with unexpected flavors for balanced, delicious results. Bartenders explain the inspiration behind each drink, revealing how ingredients evoke narrative elements—fiery notes for apocalyptic Fallout vibes or tropical zests for dinosaur escapades. Non-alcoholic options match the creativity, ensuring inclusive enjoyment with vibrant, layered mocktails that rival their spirited counterparts.Snacks and Sips in Cozy Quarters
Complementing the drinks are simple bites like cashew nuts and Perello olives, enhancing the tasting experience without overwhelming the focus on mixology. The space splits into upstairs and downstairs areas, each with subtle decor variations that amplify the theme. Upstairs offers a slightly quieter retreat, while downstairs pulses with energy closer to the bar's heart.Evolving Experiences and Seasonal Shifts
Themes refresh every few months, keeping visits dynamic—past hits include Spirited events running through mid-2025, with new immersions like Fallout beckoning into 2026. This cycle encourages repeat explorations, as each iteration unveils fresh drinks, art, and narratives. The bar's commitment to detail extends to uniforms, bar mats, and even glassware, forging a cohesive sensory journey.Evening Rhythm in Edinburgh's Old Town
Opening from early afternoon on weekends to late nights, the venue syncs with Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife. Stone walls and arched ceilings amplify the underground allure, blending historic architecture with modern geek culture. It's a haven for those seeking flavorful escapes amid the city's ancient streets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.1 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.1 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
North Bridge
0.2 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.2 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.2 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
124 High St
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Museum Context
0.3 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
The High Street Wellhead
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.3 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.4 km
Historic neoclassical landmark on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending civic heritage with timeless architectural elegance.
Adam Smith Statue
0.4 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little Fish Tours
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
The Chocolatarium
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s rich storytelling heritage in Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural hub blending medieval charm with contemporary arts.
John Knox House
0.1 km
The world's first purpose-built storytelling centre, blending 15th-century history with contemporary performance on Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
The World's End
0.1 km
A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
Museum of Childhood
0.1 km
The world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, packed with toys, games, and memories from the 1800s to today on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
St. Patrick
0.2 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
Tron Kirk Market
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Heart of Scotland Tours
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
Jacob's Ladder
0.2 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
Royal Mile
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
Essential places to dine
La Garrigue
0.0 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Monteiths
0.1 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.1 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Tolbooth Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Ecco Vino
0.4 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Number One
0.4 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Duck & Waffle
0.4 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Twenty Princes Street
0.4 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.4 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.4 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
The Devil's Advocate
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Real Scot Shop
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Ragamuffin
0.1 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.1 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.1 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Pure Scottish
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Eden
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Wyrd Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Galaxy
0.4 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.4 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.0 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.3 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
0.5 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Captain's Bar
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.5 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Frankenstein
0.6 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.6 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.0 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.3 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
