Edinburgh’s top bars and bar folk recognised at the inaugural Edinburgh Bartender’s Ball
After three years of fun and frolics in Glasgow, the Bartender’s Ball decamped to Edinburgh yesterday, for a night of celebration and award-awarding (does that make sense?).
In addition to music from Al and the Bad Decisions, tasty BBQ and performances from the Enticing Ecdysiasts Burlesque, the results of the peer-nominated Edinburgh Bar Awards were announced, with venues and individuals from the Edinburgh community recognised for their excellence and contribution to the scene.
Congratulations to the winners, and indeed, to everyone who was nominated.
The 2024 Edinburgh Bar Award winners and highly commended finalists:
Best Bar – sponsored by Cutty Sark
- Winner: Raging Bull – Known for its energetic atmosphere and signature espresso martinis, Raging Bull has become a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers in Edinburgh.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Star Bar – A neighbourhood favourite, Star Bar is loved for its warm hospitality and inventive drinks.
Best Pub – sponsored by Pintail – Purveyors of precious wines and spirits
- Winner: Nauticus – A Leith-based gem, Nauticus focuses on celebrating Scottish produce and ingredients, offering a thoughtfully curated drinks menu with local flair.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Polwarth Tavern – A charming pub known for great drinks and a friendly, down-to-earth vibe.
Best Bar Team – sponsored by Royal Mile Whiskies
- Winner: Cocktail Geeks – Famed for its geek culture-inspired drinks, the team at Cocktail Geeks delivers not only excellent cocktails but an unforgettable themed experience with every visit.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Bramble – One of Edinburgh’s most iconic cocktail bars, Bramble’s talented team continues to set the standard for craftsmanship and hospitality in the city.
Best Restuarant Bar – sponsored by Whisky and Cynicism
- Winner: Old Pal – A cosy yet sophisticated bar within a restaurant setting, Old Pal has earned a reputation for its expertly curated drinks list and inviting atmosphere.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Hawksmoor – Known for its exquisite steaks and even better drinks, Hawksmoor offers an exceptional bar experience that perfectly complements its food offerings.
Best Drink – sponsored by Schweppes
- Winner: Cranachan Manhattan – Commons Club
- Highly Commended Finalist – Yuzu Margarita – Hey Palu – A refreshing and zesty take on a classic margarita, the Yuzu Marg has become a crowd favourite for its vibrant citrus flavours.
Best Shake
- Winner: Fowwaz Ansari – Bittersweet
- Highly Commended Finalist: Sam Milne – Panda & Sons
Unsung Heroes – sponsored by Holyrood Distillery
- Winner: Jane Ross – Mother Superior
- Highly Commended Finalist: Ben Leslie – Raging Bull
Rising Stars – sponsored by X Muse Scottish Barley Vodka
- Winner: Alessia Impedovo – Panda & Sons – Alessia’s passion for mixology and innovative drink creations have earned her a spot among the city’s brightest up-and-comers.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Alex Moore – Nauticus – With his dedication to sustainable practices and creative cocktail crafting, Alex is quickly becoming one of the most respected young bartenders in Edinburgh.
Social Stars – sponsored by Atomic10
- Winner: Carrie Smith – Hoot the Redeemer – Carrie has captured the hearts of her followers with her engaging social media presence, showcasing the creativity and fun that Hoot the Redeemer is famous for.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Chloe Yeung – Panda & Sons – Chloe’s flair for visually stunning cocktails and her engaging online persona have made her a rising star in the world of cocktail bars.
Far Side Of the Bar – sponsored by Heads Up Hospitality
- Winner: Ellie Raeside – Bacardi – Ellie’s leadership and expertise make her a force to be reckoned with.
- Highly Commended Finalist: Daniela Liverani – Sazerac
Legend – awarded on night and sponsored by BACKS! Hospitality
- Winner – Johanna Elizabeth Cole