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There's an ever-expanding gay and lesbian scene in Edinburgh, and the city has many predominantly gay clubs, bars, and cafés. However, don't expect the scene to be quite as varied as in London, New York, or even Glasgow. The List and The Skinny have sections that focus on gay and lesbian venues.
Like the Cafe Royal Circle Bar on the other corner of the same Victorian block, the Guildford Arms has a spectacular interior of intricate plasterwork, elaborate cornices, and wood paneling. The ornate ceiling alone is worth the visit. Stay for the range of excellent Scottish ales on tap.
Situated right opposite Edinburgh Waverley Station, Juniper cultivates an air of glamorous fun with its plant-filled interior and postcard-worthy views of the city and the castle. The wine list is good (if a little pricey), but it's the imaginative cocktails that really make this place, from the Jungle Bird Mojito (a fruity twist on the classic Cuban) to the Smoke on the Water (a combo of peaty whisky and peach iced tea).
The very definition of a hidden gem, this Prohibition-style speakeasy is cunningly tucked away behind a barbershop exterior. Venture inside and downstairs to discover a quirky bar serving some seriously refined cocktails. And yes, we're baffled by the fictional bar-owning panda, too.
Laugh until your sides split at The Stand, a legendary basement comedy club that hosts both famous names and up-and-coming acts all throughout the year, though it's particularly popular during the Fringe. Most, but not all, shows are 18+.
This funky, cheerful bar has something of the Tex-Mex joint meets youthful dive-bar vibe—which might explain its happy-go-lucky mash-up of cocktails, Mexican food, and Hawaiian-shirted bar staff.
Modern and colorful, CC Blooms is a club spread over two levels, playing a mix of musical styles and with regular cabaret nights. Open nightly, it's been a mainstay on the gay scene since the early '90s, and can now count several other gay-friendly bars and clubs as neighbors.
One of eight Swedish bars and restaurants in Edinburgh owned by the Boda group, Joseph Pearce's has a distinctly northern European feel, despite its solidly Edwardian origins. Scandi-themed cocktails are popular here, as are the meatballs, open sandwiches, and other Swedish dishes. There's also a Swedish Sweet Shop, a children's corner with toys to keep the little ones occupied, and a sunny outdoor space in summer.
The headquarters of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, housed in a handsome four-story Georgian building, is a wonderful spot to explore their bespoke collection of over 500 exclusive single malts. Book a ground-floor table and let one of the knowledgeable bartenders guide you or gather a group for a tasting experience. The food menu showcases excellent Scottish steaks and seafood, which can be paired with one of their bizarrely named malts such as "Riding a Duck Bareback Up Mount Etna." At the end of the evening, you may get the chance to tour the lovely members' rooms upstairs.
Housed in a former Georgian coach house, this diminutive but friendly spot serves 50 single-malt whiskies, a range of guest ales, and decent bottled beers. Inside is charming and cozy; seek out the little wood-paneled library room with its tiny fireplace and shelves full of books.
Billing itself as "the best real ale gay pub in Edinburgh," this popular drinking hole at the far east end of the New Town is warm, homey, and welcoming, if a tad pricey. As advertised, the real ales selection is great.
This stylish basement bar has bouncy stools, comfy sofas, and a long list of superb, throwback cocktails. Resident DJs play Thursday through Sunday.
