Five of the best whisky bars in Edinburgh

In his final article for the Master of Malt blog before he goes off to join Kingsbarns in Fife, campaigns manager and home cask guru James Evans picks five of the best whisky bars in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh has thriving food and drink scene. As Scotland’s capital city, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the best place in the world to drink Scotch whisky. There are far too many great places to list on one short blog but here’s a selection of some of my personal favourites.

Five of the best whisky bars in Edinburgh

Tipsy Midgie, EH8

First up is the Tipsy Midgie! You may have heard about this particular bar from our recent collaboration for Burns Night but it’s with good reason we keep shouting about it. The Tipsy Midgie boasts one of the largest collections of whiskies in Edinburgh, hosting tasting evenings with different distilleries and even a chocolate pairing night. This is what happens when an award-winning chef opens a whisky bar with his own private collection, a true flavour journey and unforgettable experience. If you visit, make sure to tell Colin (the owner) that Master of Malt sent you!

Lucky Liquor Co. EH2

Second is a cocktail bar like no other, Lucky Liquor Co. This bar is known for its creative cocktails and laid back vibe. This is the sister to Bramble Bar and is best known for its rotating menu of 13 cocktails and 13 spirits, so you’ll likely try something new and delicious every time you visit. A certified Edinburgh classic.

Teuchters Landing EH6

The third bar is Teuchters Landing, renowned for its whisky selection, delicious food and beer selection. This is a really quirky place located in the shore area of Leith where not only can you enjoy a quality selection of around 90 single malts but you can do so whilst sitting right in the middle of the water in their unique floating beer garden.

The Athletic Arms EH11

The fourth place you must visit is the Athletic Arms or Diggers as locals know it, the name diggers comes from the fact it is located between two graveyards and gravediggers used to visit after a shift, leaving their spades leaning on the bar. This is a no messing, traditional style pub offering over 500 whiskies! 

Nauticus EH6

The final recommendation is Nauticus, located on Duke Street in Leith, a shipwrecked themed bar that champions Scottish liquor and produce. When visiting this bar you can expect top tier service, exciting cocktail lists and an indie-led whisky selection which is categorised by flavour profile on their back bar for ease of exploration.