50 Dean Street, Edinburgh (Map)

So what happens when three of Scotland’s best barkeeps take over an old geezer pub with the mission to serve the best drinks money can buy? The Raconteur happens. Headed up by the renowned Jamie Mac The Raconteur is cocktail central with a fantastic selection of unusual spirits behind the bar and a cocktail list to die for. The Charlie Chaplin for example, a fantastic mix of sloe gin, apricot brandy and lime juice is typical of its retro glam style. If you don’t see your favourite drink on the menu Jamie and the guys will make you exactly what you want. The Raconteur is not the easiest place to find – down Dean Street off Raeburn Place, Stockbridge’s main drag but it’s so worth the trek. And don’t expect style bar décor –it’s dark, cosy and very New York – not a glimmer of stainless steel in sight. No food either . It’s a proper bar bar with truly great drinks, excellent service that even includes little bowls of pretzels if you don’t mind and cool grown up music. And it’s our local – about twenty feet behind Gintime Towers so we’ll be there – a lot.

Tel: 0131 349 3221

Web: Visit Website

Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh EH4 1, UK