Christmas Cocktails in the Capital
The weather and cost of living crisis might be doing its best to dampen our spirits, but we can’t help but feel the need to eat, drink and be merry this Christmas! The capital is full of festive dining and drinking destinations to recuperate after a day Christmas shopping. Here is the Hood round up of our favourite cosy corners to book to enjoy the finest seasonal menus and tastiest cocktails…
We love this New York inspired cocktail led bar and restaurant - decor, ambiance, service, art, music…ten out of ten!
The seasonal pick ‘n’ mix menu uses locally sourced ingredients from the finest Scottish suppliers including Campbell Brothers Fish, Donald Russell Butchers while their cocktails celebrate Scottish drink brands such as the Edinburgh founded Secret Garden Gin Distillery and Bibendum wine.
Mix and match your favourite cocktail and foodie plates from the expertly curated festive menu and if you’re struggling to decide one of the helpful, knowledgeable team can help. Hero pairings include the Pulled Smoky Turkey Croquettes which are paired with a bourbon infused Wild Turkey Winter Warmer Cocktail and the crowd pleasing Pigs n Blanket Mini Rolls which are perfectly matched with a Festive Gin Cheer cocktail.
Hood recommends: Festive Toffee Apple £9.50 Havana Club Especial rum, apple juice, caramel, cinnamon, lime even Santa would approve.
With five years on St Andrew Square under its fashionable belt The Ivy shows no sign of shrinking in popularity any time soon. The Instagram-worthy Christmas installation is as picture perfect as ever and the newly refurbished restaurant is the perfect twinkling haven for those seeking festive relaxation after a busy day at the shops. While the Twice-Baked Stilton and Walnut Soufflé is a taste of Christmas!
Hood recommends: Popping Cracker Royale £13.75 A delicious blend of Monkey 47 Gin, passion fruit, spiced mango, lime and cranberry juice topped with Prosecco finished with fairy floss and popping candy.
One of the city’s newest additions - a visit to East Finch is like a warm hug from an old friend. Small, intimate and cosy let the knowledgeable and enthusiastic bar team recommend Christmas cocktails and matching small plates from their uber cool menu which is a mash up of New Orleans and New York.
Hood recommends: French Porn £9.50 the tasty sister of a French and Pornstar Martini.
The Gotham-style decor never dates and as you descend the stairs to this subterranean bar you always know a good time is in store. The tasty Middle Eastern style menu has had a festive update and is matched perfectly with the comprehensive cocktail list.
Hood recommends: Baja Yacht Club £10.50 Tapatio Blanco, Abricot, Sumac & Pineapple Syrup, Lime, Soda