Hey Palu
49 Bread Street, Edinburgh
Practically part of the furniture since 2019, a relaxed atmosphere is perfectly complimented by aperitivo-style drinks which cleverly balance simple and complex. With fantastic modern twists on well-known classics and inspired original creations, the Negroni flight and Nutella Old Fashioned are musts. An expertly curated playlist and delectable small plates round off the experience (and if someone finds out where they get those peanuts from, I’ll take a bathtub-full).

Daddy Marmalades
25 Parnie Street, Glasgow
This newish kid on the block has made some serious noise. Run by the endlessly talented Kim and Mari, it’s at the forefront of translating concepts into flavour, not just in Glasgow, but the UK. Leaning into a comfortable mix of flawless classics and innovative pours, there’s something to please everyone. Come for the drinks, stay for the pizza, return for the off-the-beaten-track vibes.

Nauticus
142 Duke Street, Edinburgh
‘Upscale pub’ usually means seven taps of aggressive IPA and charging £30 for a plate of sausage and mash. Nauticus is guilty of neither. It’s foremost a pub specialising in Scottish produce while tipping a tammie to Leith’s nautical heritage. Warm and cosy, incredible Scottish booze features in inspired cocktails. The whole thing feels like a big, burly Scottish hug.