Bramble

The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

To say this is the finest cocktail bar in Edinburgh is a bold statement, but it’s definitely among the favourites. The simple layout is the definition of underground class: basement location, vault-like nooks with bed and bunk seating, simple whitewashed walls lit by a soft candle glow – although the sense it doesn’t take itself too seriously is balanced by the realisation that it gets everything just right. The atmosphere is laid-back but clubby through the week and a good deal livelier at weekends (DJs play sophisticated house and acid jazz on Friday and Saturday), while the cocktails served by friendly, calm and highly efficient staff are exquisite, including a crisp and refreshing signature Bramble and the violet-tinged Purple Bird.

• High point: Great atmosphere and wonderful cocktails
• Low point: Take lots of money