Glasgow, with its pulsating energy and unmistakable character, has firmly established itself as a choice destination for cocktail aficionados. This dynamic Scottish city is dotted with an eclectic mix of cocktail bars, where tradition and innovation collide to create a vibrant social culture. From the cosy corners of classic pubs to sleek, modern lounges that push the boundaries of mixology, Glasgow offers something to suit every occasion and every style. Watch skilled bartenders craft cocktails that tell stories of Scottish heritage, using locally sourced ingredients with spirits from around the world to make the perfect concoction. Whether it’s sipping a meticulously mixed drink in a stylish, atmospheric bar or enjoying a casual beverage, in a lively, music-filled venue, Glasgow’s cocktail scene is a testament to the city’s love for good times and great drinks.
The Corinthian Club
The Corinthian Club is housed within one of the city’s most impressive buildings at 191 Ingram Street in the Merchant City. A former bank and high court, the grade-A listed building is now home to a variety of restaurant, bar and event spaces. Set over 5 floors, The Club has become synonymous with stylish surroundings and stand-out service. Head to the Teller’s Bar where you can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails and champagne or make an evening of it by ordering something from their A La Carte menu too.
The Spiritualist
Following themes of enchantment, whimsy, merriment, love and magic, this independent bar brings charm to the drinking experience. The Spiritualist boasts Scotland’s biggest bar gantry, providing ample space for a large number of ingredients at the mixologists’ fingertips – a ladder is climbed to access spirits on the top levels. There’s a slight art deco vibe, with palms and vintage light fittings, making it a popular and very fancy hipster hideout.
www.thespiritualistglasgow.com
Metropolitan Bar
The award-winning Metropolitan Cocktail Bar in the Merchant Square has something for everyone. By day, enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends in their internal courtyard and by night, sample their extensive cocktail list whilst the resident DJ entertains until 3 am every Friday and Saturday night.
The Citizen
If you want to add some sparkle to your night, The Citizen offers a Moët & Chandon Champagne list and exquisite champagne cocktails. There’s also an extensive range of fine wines, and spirits and it’s the only venue in Glasgow to serve Tennent’s Tank Beer. A DJ provides chilled-out beats on Friday and Saturday nights in this A listed building, once home to The Citizen newspaper. Comprising a dining area, Editor’s Suite lounge and the large main bar area, the venue offers fantastic food and a place to celebrate all night long.
The Finnieston
Described as Glasgow’s premier gin bar, this chic establishment was once a 19th-century Drover’s Tavern, now also incorporating a fine seafood restaurant. Its cocktail menu Undiscovered Depths is inspired by the local art culture and the restaurant’s nautical themes, with sea creature watercolours adorning the pages. Drinks are categorised and matched according to these ocean creatures characteristics, under categories such as Shark (cocktails with bite), Turtle (universally loved, friendly favourites) and Octopus (weird, wonderful and experimental). It’s certainly a novel way to choose your cocktail and makes for a truly unique evening of sophisticated drinking.
Gin 71
Founded in 2014, this bar is dedicated to great quality spirits – especially showcasing all aspects of its namesake. Here you can enjoy everything from the classic to the creative. Enjoy completely unique serves like Bajan Breakfast, Juan for the Road and Crystal Blue Persuasion, a twist on originals including a Blueberry Collins, White Martinez and French 71, as well as tasty snacks. For a special experience, opt for a ‘create your own’ Negroni, Gin Smash or Ginlini. Cocktails don’t come more bespoke than this, making Gin 71 the perfect spot for those seeking something a little less ordinary.
Champagne Central
Escape to a bygone era in this grand bar overlooking Central Station. Inspired by the golden age of travel Champagne Central evokes a sense of old-world charm with its epic marble columns, domed ceiling and regency colour palette. Having been awarded the Best Hotel Bar in Glasgow at the 2019 Best Bar None awards, it has earned a great reputation, not least for its range of extravagant bubbles, including Louis Roederer Cristal vintage. You’ll be spoiled for choice with the enticing range of cocktails including Teatime with Alice, Fizzin’ Flamingo, Toasted Marshmallow, Dragon Sour, Lychee in Palace and many more.