Glasgow is experiencing something of a cocktail renaissance. While there is excellent pedigree at dependable bars across town, it’s the plucky younger entrants shaking things up. Key to this revival has been The Gate, which has been serving creative serves alongside classics since 2019, as well 160-plus whiskies. Try the tropical Viva Chavez, with mezcal, lychee, lime and coconut. Or pop in for a whisky sour and a cheese toastie before your next gig at the Barras. 

The Absent Ear in the Merchant City is self-consciously silly and camp, with the most elaborate menu in town. Expect the likes of a Sugar Snap Pisco Sour with herby, vegetal notes counterposed with zippy acidity. Near the Tron Theatre, meanwhile, Daddy Marmalades is more pared back, spinning delicious riffs on Martinis, Margaritas and more. Their top-seller is called Puntin’ Pastries, which can only be described as the perfect imbibable distillation of a pastel de nata. 

In the city centre, look no further than the Devil Of Brooklyn for a complex themed menu, alongside modern classics and signature serves. If you’re heading back home via Central Station, stop off at Malo for variations on Negronis and other Italianate creations such as spritzes and amaro. Round Midnight marries sweet vermouth with cognac, rye whisky and Benedictine. 

Sebb’s on Miller Street has made a splash in town too, both for its generous, playful drinks and small plates. Their Miso Old Fashioned is hard to beat. Southside, it’s got to be Nithsdale Drive’s Lunar, where ingredients per drink run longer than your arm. Try the Country Monkey, with Caramac rum, banana water and meadowsweet. Henry’s in Shawlands is also fun, if not quite as exacting in its ingredients.  

This TipList is taken from Eat & Drink 365 Glasgow, our sister mag recommending the best in restaurants, bars, cafés and more. Want a copy? It’s available online or across all good stockists in Glasgow.