Edinburgh's Hidden Gem Nominated for BIID Interior Design Award 2024

In the heart of Edinburgh, just a stone's throw from Princes Street, lies Jackson the Tailor – a city-centre speakeasy that's making waves. This hidden gem has the distinction of being the only bar in Scotland to be recognised by the British Institute of Interior Designers for the 2024 awards. Tucked away on Leith Street, Jackson the Tailor boasts an interior that seamlessly blends sophistication with modernity, all thanks to the creative minds at Collective Design. The venue is inspired by Jackson, a fictional tailor from Old Leith Street, bringing his persona and the city’s rich tailoring history to life.

Owned by Merchant Leisure, Jackson the Tailor channels the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, an era when Edinburgh's tailoring industry was at its peak. The bar's atmosphere, adorned with brass and velvet, intimate booths, and luxurious vintage artefacts, offers the perfect retreat from the bustling city streets and a haven for cocktail aficionados.

Step inside, and you'll find yourself immersed in a world where every detail is meticulously crafted. Each drink on the menu, designed by top Edinburgh mixologists, is a testament to precision. The menu itself is a work of art, with each page embroidered with a measuring tape, detailing exact spirit measurements, ingredients, and garnishes.

The era-inspired menu is divided into intriguing sections. 'Neither Shaken Nor Stirred' features inventive serves such as the ‘Moroccan Collins’ and ‘Spritz Royale’, while ‘Make Mine A Martini’ boasts the ‘Jackson’s Vesper’, further embedding Jackson's spirit in modern-day Edinburgh. We had the pleasure of enjoying libations from the “Taste of the Tropical” menu  (it was a balmy 13 degrees in Edinburgh after all). The Pineapple Cosmopolitan and a Passionberry Fizz, expertly crafted by bartender Megan were delicious, refreshing and hit the spot. Paired with a portion of the best hand-cut chips we've had in ages, our brief visit was nothing short of delightful.

Arthur Mustard, Managing Director at Merchant Leisure Ltd, expressed his pride in the accolade: “To be recognised for such a prestigious award is an absolute honour. Our aim with Jackson the Tailor is to create a suave and comfortable space to enjoy carefully crafted cocktails. We believe that wearing a beautifully made suit is an experience, and so is consuming a beautifully made drink. That is what inspired the attention to detail for our striking interior.”

Merchant Leisure, renowned for other popular Edinburgh venues like The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse, and The Railbridge, continues to set high standards with Jackson the Tailor. This speakeasy not only captures the understated charm of an underground bar but also delivers a mouth-watering cocktail menu, located at 5-11 Leith St, Edinburgh EH1 3AT.

For those seeking a unique and sophisticated drinking experience, Jackson the Tailor is the place to be.