DRINK : Bar Tonic, Edinburgh
Tonic is a hidden gem located on North Castle Street, just a one-minute walk from George Street in Edinburgh. Their venue underwent a recent refurbishment, making it warm and inviting and a place you may never want to leave.
The Tonic team has earned acclaim for their extensive drinks expertise, attracting some of Scotland’s finest bartenders over the years. However, they balance this with a refreshing lack of pretentiousness, fostering a laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere within the bar.
REVIEW OF TONIC COCKTAIL BAR, EDINBURGH
Whether you’re looking for after-work drinks or a big night out, Tonic has you covered. Explore their award-winning cocktail menu, which offers everything from blue and blended concoctions to stiff and boozy classics. At Tonic, they not only provide drinks but also entertainment.
Curated playlists and resident DJs spinning old-school R’n’B to disco create the perfect soundtrack as you enjoy your drinks. Whether it’s your first visit or your home away from home, Tonic will put a smile on your face as you sing, dance, drink, and laugh with the best company in town.
The recent updates have given the venue a contemporary touch, creating a more intimate ambiance. Paired with the new lighting and sound systems, Tonic is now an ideal spot for date nights, friendly gatherings, or exciting weekend outings!
Tonic hosts various pop-ups with brands like Don Julio and Diego, but the star of the show is their cocktail menu. This menu undergoes an exciting transformation every October, introducing approximately 30 fresh concoctions. The entire process—from initial brainstorming to menu launch—takes about 8 months. Each year, the theme changes, and for this year, it’s all about high school memories. Be on the lookout for teasers as the 2024/25 menu prepares to launch in October!
Our libations included :
Starry Night with Ciroc Apple Vodka, St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Acid Blend, Blue Curacao Syrup and Glitter.
The Great Wave with Bacardi coconut Rum, Altos Plata Tequila, Acid Blend, Banana Liqueur and Blue Curacao.
Starburst Martini, one of Tonic’s Signature Cocktails.
Why So Bitter Lemon? with Bombay Premier Cru Gin, Grapefruit Liqueur, Acid Blend, Sugar Syrup, Grenadine and Fever Tree Lemon Tonic.
Banana Sucrose with Bacardi Caribbean Spiced Rum, Bumbo and Banana Oleo Saccharum.
Get Sticky With It with Cinnamon infused Jack Daniels Honey Whiskey, Fig Liqueur, Milk Liqueur, Caramel and Saline Solution.
At Tonic, the cocktail selection spans the spectrum from sweet to bitter,
Sweet: Comes from fruit sugars, sweeteners like simple syrup, or liqueurs.
Boozy: Associated with highly alcoholic components, it can be sharp or warming.
Salty: Added using salt, sea salt, or saline solutions.
Sour: Tangy notes from citrus juices, vinegar, and acidic ingredients.
Spicy: Imparted by chili peppers or chili-infused ingredients.
Bitter: Derived from ingredients like Amaro liqueurs, coffee, dark chocolate, and cocktail bitters.
Cocktails also feature diverse base spirits like vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and whisky. The knowledgeable staff are readily available to guide you through the menu. If it feels overwhelming, simply share your flavour preferences and preferred base spirit, and they’ll offer fabulous recommendations.
If cocktails aren’t your thing, Tonic also offer a range of beers and wines.
Tonic’s seating arrangement is both intimate and beautifully decorated. Imagine plush velvet banquettes, cosy corners, and a few high-top tables for mingling. The decor complements the overall ambiance—warm lighting, stylish furnishings, and subtle nods to classic cocktail culture.
Tonic promises a smile, laughter, and a slightly inebriated departure. Cheers!
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT TONIC COCKTAIL BAR
They are happy to make mocktails
They do not serve food
They are not dog friendly
Tonic, 34a North Castle Street, Edinburgh, EH2 3BN www.bar-tonic.co.uk
I was invited by Tonic to review their cocktail menu.
Drinks were complimentary but the views are very much my own.
TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.
Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events), is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.
Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk