News you can trust since 1817
George Street is home to some of Edinburgh's best drinking spots, from contemporary cocktail bars to classic pubs.
Here are eight of our favourite bars on George Street:
(14 George St, New Town, Edinburgh EH2 2PF, 0131 624 8624)
The Dome is often photographed during the festive season. Image: The Dome/Facebook
Often photographed during the festive season when the outside is draped in thousands of twinkling lights The Dome, a James Craig designed building, actually contains one bar and three restaurants.
The Front Bar is undoubtedly the heart of the action. Patrons will find a wide selection of gins, whiskies, craft and draught beers to choose from, as well as a good range of cocktails, Proseccos and champagnes - all of which can be enjoyed under the glassy illumination of a 24-carat gold and Swarovski crystal chandelier, high mirrors and wood panelling.
Drinks are also served in The Grill Room, a stunning former banking hall, and The Club Room which is best for a casual catch up.
(16 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2PF, 0131 270 3900)
Le Monde was refurbished in 2019. Image: Maverick Photo Agency
Classic boutique hotel Le Monde is one of Edinburgh's most iconic venues, which looks to transport guests from George Street to some of the world’s most glamorous cities.
Visitors can explore the venue's many bars, such the opulent champagne bar which greets guests as they walk in, the Gallery which overlooks the hotel restaurant or the secluded Mezzanine which is tucked away at the back of the main eating space.
Or for those looking for late night entertainment, Le Monde's atmospheric and intimate candlelit lounge Dirty Martini could do the trick - if you're not tempted by the venue's Shanghai Nightclub.
The bar takes pride in being suitable for almost every occasion following a million-pound refurbishment in 2019 and offers experiences from afternoon tea to cocktail masterclasses.
(62-66 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2LR, 0131 225 4460)
Famously housed in the former Union Bank of Scotland, the Wetherspoons-owned Standing Order has been a staple of the George Street offering for over 20 years.
It makes no secret of its previous life either, the door of the old vault is now a decoration to be admired by the hundreds who cram into the bar every night.
Like most Wetherspoons, including their second George Street venue, the drink and food deals are second to none - a beer and burger can be picked up for less than a tenner - and the company policy of no music means conversation is a must.
While some may sneer at the chain tag, the Standing Order offers unbeatable value especially considering its location among the more opulent new town crowd.
(113-115 George St, Edinburgh EH2 4JN, 0131 225 9179)
Candy Bar, George Street, Edinburgh. Image: Candy Bar Edinburgh/Facebook
One of the more quirky options on George Street, Candy’s retro decor and affordable pricing makes it a popular offering.
The entrance might be easily missed - the front door is down a flight of stairs - but patrons would be advised not to walk past this kitsch bar diner.
The food is cheap, but excellent quality, and the menu is much longer than might be expected, but what sets Candy apart is its unique range of cocktails.
From their "long & lively" options to their "disco delights", some just have to be tried to be believed.
There’s plenty to appease those who aren’t fans of cocktails too. Candy has an excellent range of craft beers and a good selection of wines so there’s plenty to suit every taste.
(29 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2PA, 0131 226 9971)
A favourite with the boisterous after-work crowd, All Bar One benefits from competitive prices and a good selection of cocktails and wines.
Much like its Wetherspoons equivalent across the road, All Bar One is chain owned, but that shouldn’t put prospective customers off, everything is reasonably priced and it’s often an energetic and positive atmosphere inside.
The cocktail menu could easily compete with some of the more established cocktail bars in the city, but where All Bar One really shines is with its wine offering.
There’s a fantastic selection to suit all budgets, ranging from the standard house red to aromatic, oak-aged bottles to satisfy any craving.
(107 George St, Edinburgh EH2 3ES, 0131 297 2630)
Image: Copper Blossom/Facebook
Copper Blossom has made a big impression on visitors since setting up on George Street in 2015 with its elegant botanical themed interior.
Despite being a basement bar, the space is bright and airy with blooming flowers and greenery everywhere. There's an outdoor terrace which has stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and is dog-friendly.
Behind the bar, cocktails are created from century old recipes, somewhat pleasingly using original instruments, but there’s plenty of modern innovation going into every drink.
They aren’t shy about using machinery to find the perfect infusion, while requests for more flavour, if not more alcohol, are more than welcome.
(38-38A George St, Edinburgh EH2 4JN, 0131 225 3408)
Originally established under the name Madogs in 1978, Elio's was renamed in honour of its founder Elio Crolla.
Elio's is a great late night spot, leaning into its rustic aesthetic with exposed brick walls, dark leather seats and moody lighting as befitting a basement level bar.
Visitors can expect classic cocktails, a good selection of beer and wine alongside an excellent selection of whisky - from Scotch to Bourbon.
Somewhat of an Edinburgh institution, the bar's offering includes an outdoor terrace, live music and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
(125 George St, Edinburgh EH2 4JN, 0131 225 5005)
Tigerlily Edinburgh is a contemporary and chic bar. Image: Tigerlily Edinburgh/Facebook
Following a complete makeover in October 2022, Tigerlily has maintained its contemporary style and cool, chic vibe.
Billed as "Tigerlily... but not as you know it", some of the more interesting aspects of decor - which could be confusing for those a few drinks in - have been totally revamped.
The bar's extensive drinks menu continues to impress with its selection of of expertly crafted cocktails, local beers, fine wines and even non-alcoholic tipples.
And when the weather is nice, why not head out to the Whispering Angel Terrace to enjoy the fresh and and even fresher drinks?
