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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
