Scotland | 5 Best Cocktail Bars in Aberdeen

One thing we are lucky with here in Aberdeen is the bar scene! We have some of the best cocktail bars in Scotland, not to mention the award winning bartenders working their magic behind them. And hey, who doesn't love a good cocktail? Whatever your tipple, you're spoiled for choice in the Granite City. There are new venues popping up around town all the time, but in my opinion these are the best cocktail bars in Aberdeen.

1. Ninety-nine Bar & Kitchen - Tucked away just off Union Street, Ninety-Nine is my go to for a day/night out with the girls. Food from How Bao Now is served through the day but the bar really comes alive in the evening, when the drinks are flowing and the DJ is spinning some funky tunes. Cocktails range from a classic martini to literary inspired masterpieces like Don's Treasure Island and Tequila Mockingbird. Their specials often feature a fruity margarita slush, which is right up my street in the summer time. 

Open Mon, Wed & Thurs 5pm - 12am, Fri - Sat 12pm - 1am and Sunday 12pm - 12am.

1 Back Wynd, Aberdeen, AB10 1JN.

2. Orchid - Home of Porter's gin & 2016 mixologist of the year, Nick Gordon, Orchid was featured on the Top 50 UK Cocktail Bars list in 2018 and 2019, and was voted best cocktail bar in Scotland in 2021. This is my favourite date night bar. A night out in Aberdeen with Gordon will often end at Orchid, especially when they have live music. The menu is ever changing but they make a mean Long Island Iced Tea and I recommend their staple Pink Orchid! Expect table service and spontaneous ceilidh dancing.

Open Wednesday - Sunday 6pm - Late.

51 Langstane Place, Aberdeen, AB11 6EN

3. The Tippling House - For a more laid back vibe this "subterranean late night tavern" is the place to be. Its a place to enjoy some good chat whilst sipping on an expertly crafted cocktail. Many an accolade has been won by The Tippling House including SLTN 2013 cocktail bar of the year and 2015 mixologist of the year. I love their unique, seasonal menus but the knowledgeable bartenders will happily whip up a classic if you prefer. The food here is always top notch too, and the champagne brunch is the perfect excuse for a visit.

Open Tues - Thurs 4pm - 12.30am, Fri 4pm - 3am and Saturday 1pm - 3am.

4 Belmont Street, Aberdeen, AB10 1JE.

4. Barbelow - New kid on the block, Barbelow opened in 2022 in the basement of sister venue Olive Alexanders on Golden Square. The cocktail and wine bar is proving to be a popular haunt for locals, with occasional bright decor juxtaposing a relaxed ambience, white washed walls and wild wallpaper. The fireplace is sure to be a star feature come the winter months! Cocktail lists include classics alongside more exotic flavours. I recommend the "Hello from Honolulu" and watermelon jalapeno margarita! Small plates and sharing boards are available to order.

Open Tues - Thurs 4pm - 11.30pm, Fri - Sat 2pm - 2am and Sunday 2pm - 11.30pm.

8 Golden Square, Aberdeen, AB10 1RB.

5. 21 Crimes - Aberdeen's only speakeasy is hidden away in the depths of Union Street. Inspired by the prohibition era of the 1920's, the bar takes it's name from 21 Crimes that resulted in deportation to Australia in the 18th and 19th centuries. There's a thrilling backstory to each drink's name. A unique, vintage style with candle-lit tables is fitting to the concept. You can even book group mixology lessons here, with prices from £35 per person. Now you'll just need to find the password to get in...

Open Fri - Sat 5pm - late.

Union Street, Aberdeen, AB10 1TN.

Tell me, where's your favourite bar to sip cocktails in Aberdeen?

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