The 7 Best Hidden Bars in Edinburgh for a Hush Hush Happy Hour
Scots know how to party, but we also know how to make a night out unforgettable. Edinburgh has plenty to explore, but if you’re after a nightlife experience with a twist, I’d highly recommend hunting down the city’s hidden bars.
These secret spots are as unassuming as they come. Some are tucked behind plain wooden doors with no sign in sight, while others are cleverly concealed within other establishments. The fun is in the discovery, and trust me, the effort pays off once you’re inside.
Uncover these best-kept secrets below!
Jackson the Tailor
– Media from jacksonthetailor
Address: 5 to 11 Leith St
Contact Details: +44 131 557 5830
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm to 1:00 am
Friday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 1:00 am
Pricing: $$
Back in the 1970s, Jackson the Tailor was a tailor shop, but these days, it’s transformed into a bar that dishes out cocktails and bar bites every night. Step inside, and you’ll be floored by the interiors; first-timers might even mistake it for an exclusive fitting room!
Funnily enough, where the tailors once stitched suits is now where the bartenders whip up your drinks. It’s a quiet wee spot during the day, but trust me, the magic really kicks in late at night. That’s when the place comes alive, and the vibes are pure gold!
Tips:
- I highly recommend dropping by on a weekend evening here. The bar hires talented pianists every weekend to serenade guests in the bar. It’s something I don’t think you should miss out on while you’re around.
- Weekends are the busiest for the bar, so I recommend booking a table at least a day before to ensure you get the best seats. Tables are available for private bookings as well if you’re coming with a large group.
- Don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders to create a bespoke drink for you. I always get delightfully surprised when they do!
Panda & Sons
– Media from pandaandsons
Address: 79 Queen St
Contact Details: +44 131 220 0443
Operating Hours:
Thursday to Friday, 4:00 pm to 1:00 am
Saturday, 2:00 pm to 1:00 am
Sunday, 3:00 pm to 1:00 am
Pricing: $$
When I first visited Panda & Sons, I was instantly charmed by how it looked like a 1930s barbershop from the outside. But step inside, and you’re transported to an entirely different world—one that’s stuck with me ever since.
To find the speakeasy, you’ll need to slip through a secret door hidden behind a bookcase, adding to the mystery. I couldn’t resist their signature whiskey cocktail, served in a gorgeous antique glass that practically demanded a photo.
My friends went for the punch bowls, which turned out to be just as impressive!
Tips:
- Within the secret bar is also another secret room reserved for private tables. The area is best if you’re arriving with a big group and want more privacy while you enjoy the night. Just make sure to inform the staff about your preferred table during reservations (they get fully booked quickly!).
- If you want to avoid the crowds, aim for a weekday evening. The vibe is quieter and you have better chances of getting a seat or table without a reservation (it’s still better to book, though!).
Never Really Here
– Media from neverreallyhereliquorlounge
Address: 89 Rose St N Ln
Contact Details: +44 131 220 0443
Operating Hours:
Monday, 5:00 pm to 12:00 am
Thursday to Saturday, 5:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Sunday, 5:00 pm to 12:00 am
Pricing: $$
Never Really Here actually lives up to its name. It’s a speakeasy bar that, quite frankly, doesn’t seem to be *really* there unless you have a keen eye to spot it. The bar is hidden behind an old wooden door with a single sign that says “Only Cash.”
Once you enter, you’ll be greeted with a cosy but lively bar that serves up classic cocktails and beers. The bartenders are well-versed in creating drinks, but a local favourite is, of course, the Scottish whisky (there are a couple types you can try here).
Tips:
- Just like what the sign says on the front door, they don’t accept any form of payment aside from cash. So, prepare cash with you before your visit, or else you’ll end up looking for the nearest ATM in the area (a hassle, especially when you’re there alone).
- They don’t have a menu where they list all their offerings, but you can ask the bartenders for their recommendations. They can create almost anything. Just make sure to tell them your preferences and they’ll whip you up what you’re looking for.
The Permit Room
– Media from maxczyzewski
Address: 3a St Andrew Square, Dishoom Edinburgh
Contact Details: +44 131 202 6406
Operating Hours:
Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
Thursday to Friday, 8:00 am to 12:00 am
Saturday, 9:00 am to 12:00 am
Sunday, 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Dishoom Edinburgh might have the tourists queuing up for their curry fix, but locals know the real secret is downstairs. The Permit Room, tucked beneath the restaurant, is a hidden bar that’s all about bold drinks and a relaxed vibe.
You don’t need a permit to get in; you just need a taste for something special. The space is full of character—dark wood panelling, quirky art on the walls, and those old-school ceiling fans gently spinning above.
It’s the perfect spot for a quiet drink or a wee adventure away from the crowds upstairs.
Tips:
- If you’re heading to The Permit Room, know that most of the tables are for walk-ins, but they do set a few aside for reservations. Click here to make a booking or give them a phone call.
Do you have a big group? It’s worth booking ahead—though you might end up at a few tables pushed together.
- The queue can get very long before he goes outside because diners at Dishoom wait alongside people visiting the bar. Simply ask the management if there are tables at the bar available instead of waiting for the diners to get to their tables because you might end up waiting for nothing.
Under The Stairs
– Media from underthestairsedinburgh
Address: 3A Merchant St
Contact Details: +44 131 466 8550
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm to 12:00 am
Friday and Saturday, 2:00 pm to 1:00 am
Sunday, 2:00 pm to 12:00 am
Pricing: $$
If you walk along Merchant Street, you might miss out on Under The Stairs if you don’t pay close attention to where you’re walking. This hidden bar is tucked literally beneath a set of steps near the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, so keep your eyes peeled.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy atmosphere where you can eat and drink with your friends. They serve up really great mains and entrees, with seasonal options sourced from local farmers (and are best paired with a glass of wine or a cocktail).
Tips:
- Since gaining fame among locals, the bar isn’t as hidden as it used to, so expect tables to be full on most days. They only operate on a table basis, so don’t worry. Take your time while ordering because a server will assist you soon after you’re seated.
- There’s a two-hour limit per booking. I highly recommend checking out their menu on the website so that you can order your meals and drinks right away. If you need to stay a little longer, the staff may be able to grant you extra time so long as there are no other reservations made after you.
Secret Arcade Vodka Bar
– Media from arcade_bar
Address: 48 Cockburn St, Jackson’s Cl, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House
Contact Details: +44 131 220 1297
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Friday, 6:00 pm to 1:00 am
Saturday, 12:00 pm to 1:00 am
Sunday,12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Pricing: $
If vodka’s your drink of choice, then the Secret Arcade Vodka Bar is calling your name.
Tucked away on Cockburn Street, just near the Arcade Haggis and Whisky House, this hidden gem is a wee adventure to find. Take a quick wander down the narrow alley beside Jackson’s Close, and voilà, you’re there.
The bar specialises in Polish vodka, but you’ll find plenty of other spirits on offer too. By day, it’s a laid-back spot for a bite and a few drinks, but by night, it transforms into a lively haven for dance music that keeps the energy going until the wee hours.
Tips:
- Here’s a wee tip for you: keep an eye on the bar’s Drink of the Month promo. You could snag the featured tipple at up to 50% off all month long—a proper steal for a good drink!
- If you’ve got specific dietary needs, you’re in luck. This bar has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on the menu.
If you fancy tweaking a dish to suit your taste, just have a word with the staff. While not everything can be customised, it’s always worth asking. They’re usually happy to help if they can!
Bramble
– Media from bramble_bar
Address: 16A Queen St
Contact Details: +44 131 226 6343
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 4:00 pm to 1:00 am
Pricing: $$$
The first time I visited Bramble, I nearly missed the entrance. My friends who’ve been there have warned me that finding its entrance can be tricky at first because it’s that unassuming.
Once I stepped inside, though, I was greeted with a swanky atmosphere. Their drinks menu is impressive, offering a wide range of cocktails and ale.
A main highlight, however, is the DJ booth. I can imagine how lively this place turns once night comes!
Tips:
- The bar only accepts walk-ins from 4:00 pm to 1:00 am. I don’t recommend you come in too close to their opening hour because the queue will start to pile up then. Instead, drop by on a weekday because this is when the crowds are fewer and tables are likely to be more available.
- The venue is super small with limited tables. Expect to be standing near cocktail tables throughout the night, especially on weekends.