SCOTCH Whisky Bar

My cousin and I, not new to whiskey, ordered the highest and second-highest flights. We asked them to favor things we probably wouldn't find outside of Scotland. They came through for us amazingly. We learned a lot and we had a great time. Expensive but absolutely worth the money. Let them know where you're coming from in terms of your experiences and interests and they'll put together something special for you. Huge thanks to Ross from Jonathan and Joe.

I genuinely like this whisky bar and have visited it before. It has a strong whisky selection, the right atmosphere, and feels like a place you come to for a proper dram and conversation. On this occasion, I travelled from Warwick and was genuinely looking forward to visiting this bar again. Unfortunately, I was refused entry because I had my dog with me. The only “solution” offered was to go and try another restaurant where dogs might be allowed. That is not a solution. I came specifically to this bar — not to eat and not to look for alternatives, but to enjoy whisky here. Historically in Scotland, whisky and dogs have always gone hand in hand. Dogs have long been part of pub and club culture, from rural pubs to private clubs and country houses where people would sit by the fire with a dram after a day outdoors. For that reason, a blanket ban on dogs in a whisky bar feels unnecessary and out of place. What was most disappointing was the approach itself: instead of welcoming the guest or making any effort to accommodate the situation, I was simply sent elsewhere. For a place that positions itself as offering an authentic and high-quality experience, this is a weak customer approach. In short, the whisky and atmosphere remain excellent. Unfortunately, the attitude towards guests in situations like this significantly detracts from the overall experience. I hope that by the time I next visit Edinburgh, perhaps next Christmas, long-standing whisky and pub traditions - including the presence of dogs - will find their place in the bar’s policy.

About a week before my flight over to Scotland (From USA), we emailed and were able to make a reservation. We had multiple recommendations to do the Whisky Experience "A Journey Around Scotland" that is inside The Balmoral hotel at the Scotch Whisky Bar. It was worth every penny and it also was a great kick-off to the start of our road trip around Scotland. The doorman had no clue what we had a reservation for but once we found the proper location inside we were set. Fraser was our guide. He did a great job. The breath of my knowledge is in deep into Bourbon, so it was nice to learn more than the basics I know of Scotch drams. He was a trooper and answered a lot of nerdy questions. The pre-selected pours luckily were from brands Ive had but not the collections picked. I would have felt bad if I had a bottle on my home bar that was already pre-poured. If you are a seasoned whisky drinker maybe let them know ahead of time what is on your home shelves so you get all new experiences. My friend who is not a whisky drinker did enjoy a few of the drams... and I had to sacrifice and complete what she didn't like but 3 out of 5 she liked. There was no dress code, however we did feel like under dressed tourist. In the future, will change and freshen up. We did tip in cash, as the staff was so kind and worked hard to make the experience elevated. They were kind to offer beer and cider too, which was great for my friend that isn't a whisky drinker. At one point I requested a Ginger Ale. For a whisk(e)y snob, or newbie. This is a great time. Something I will return for. Also Fraser recommended a few great locations that we ended up going to in other cities in Scotland. We kept going where the Scots recommended and it was a 10/10 trip!

The bartender is a lot more than a bartender. He’s your guide into the whisky rabbit hole. Both guys are very passionate, knowledgeable, and patient. The hospitality is way beyond my expectation. I would highly recommend this place if you are looking to explore and learn more about scotch whisky.

No need to book a seperate scotch tasting at any of the tourist places. These artisans are extremely helpfull in selecting a flight or two !

From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted by a warm and elegant atmosphere that immediately signals quality. Our guide took the time to understand my preferences and recommended whiskies that truly impressed me. Hope we can come back! To our wonderful guide hope you get the chance to taste high coast whiskey from Sweden Greeting from the north

* A note on grades, I rate outwards from three stars. * An absolute highlight of our trip to Scotland. Called ahead to ensure seating availability and enjoyed both before- and after-dinner drinks in the cozy room with excellent service.

Did the rare and ghosted scotch tasting and had an amazing experience. I'm sorry to say my memory fails me on who did the tasting for me, but he selected whisky's that I was unlikely to have had or could get in the states and all were exceptional. We visited later the same evening and he again assisted us with selecting whisky that met our preferred taste profiles. I'd give them 10 stars if I could.