Cocktail bars
Cocktail bars
Whether you're looking for an underground speakeasy or a stylish New York vibe, Glasgow is full of exciting places to enjoy a cocktail or two. Here are our top picks.
August House
August House, is the new late-night spot located on Glasgow's Mitchell Street. Enjoy one of their signature cocktails and a bite to eat or dance the night away under the disco balls with a DJ serving up the tunes 7 days a week. Find out more at augusthouse.co.uk.
63rd and 1st

63rd and 1st
For Manhattan-inspired surroundings head to 63rd and 1st on Bothwell Street. Enjoy classic Negronis, a timeless Old Fashioned or a retro Pina Colada. Head there from 5.30pm during the week or from 12noon at the weekend to enjoy your drinks with live music. Visit 63rdand1st.co.uk to book.
The Absent Ear
For a speakeasy inspired by Vincent Van Gogh, head to The Absent Ear. Hidden underground within the Merchant City, you'll only find out the exact location once you’ve made a booking. The cocktail list changes regularly or you can go off menu as the team can create drinks based on your favourite flavours. Book your table at theabsentear.com.
Devil of Brooklyn
From the team behind Tabac, Devil of Brooklyn is the new speakeasy bar on the scene. With it's warm atmosphere, impressive decor and wide range of cocktails it's one not to miss. Follow Devil of Brooklyn on Instagram to find out more.
Bar Vini
Tucked away in the southside of the city is the trendy but intimate Bar Vini. Enjoy cocktails at cosy tables or the stylish bar, complete with great tunes, friendly staff and a tasty Italian menu if you get peckish. Follow Bar Vini on Instagram to find out more.
Speakeasy

Speakeasy
Self-declared as Glasgow’s original Speakeasy, this late-night drinking den in Merchant City is open to everyone. Private booths make it a great place for a date while retro tunes add to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Find out more at speakeasyglasgow.co.uk.
Kelvingrove Café
Located in trendy Finnieston, Kelvingrove Café's stunning brasserie bar is a chic setting for a drink. Their cocktail menu is a curated selection of 14 classics including Mojitos, Negronis and Martinis. And if you need a bite to eat, the food menu is excellent too. Visit kelvingrovecafe.com to view the menu.
Tabac
Tucked away in Mitchell Lane you’ll find Tabac Bar, a cosy and vibrant spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy cocktails in sultry lighting, perfect for date nights. Or head down to their secret bar The Grow Room (if you can find it!), which specialises in CBD cocktails. Follow Tabac’s Instagram for more details.
Red Sky Bar

Red Sky Bar
For a rooftop cocktail, head to Red Sky Bar in Finnieston. Enjoy signature mixes such as a Glas-vegas Fizz or a Sky High Sling while taking in panoramic views across the River Clyde. If you’re after a dance with your cocktail, there are DJs every weekend from 9pm. Visit redskybar.com to find out more.
Chinaski's
Chinaski's in Charing Cross is the perfect place for a cocktail by candlelight. The cosy bar’s decor subtly celebrates poet Charles Bukowski, with bourbon featuring on much of their menu. They also have an excellent beer garden which is covered and heated throughout the year. View the menu at chinaski's.co.uk.
The Gate
Located in the east end, The Gate is a hidden gem offering an intimate space to enjoy creative cocktails. Described as a modern Scottish pub, their friendly bartenders create 6 new cocktails every 6 weeks. Visit thegateglasgow.com to find out what they’re currently serving.
Metropolitan Bar
For plenty of choice, head to Metropolitan Bar located in Merchant Square. Their cocktail list is extensive and includes their impressive cocktail trees. Enjoy your drinks in the decadent piano lounge, or under the twinkling lights of the indoor courtyard. View the menu at metropolitan-bar.com.
Ralph and Finns
Found on St Vincent Place, Ralph and Finns is a family-run bar and restaurant making a statement. Their characterful cocktails, including a Watermelon Collins and an El Presidente #1888, are served around a striking marble bar. Visit ralphandfinns.co.uk to find out more.
The Anchor Line
Experience cocktails in the former headquarters of The Anchor Line shipping company. Heritage is all around as you step into this opulent New York-style bar. While the inspiration for mixes like the 1738 Sidecar and Anchor Collins come from pre and post-prohibition style drinks. View the full menu at theanchorline.co.uk.
Gin 71
If your tipple is gin, you’ll love Glasgow’s first dedicated gin bar, Gin 71. With 71 varieties from around the world and their own homemade tonics, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Their cocktails are delicious too, and if you're open to sharing they’ll serve them up in a glamorous teapot! Find out more at gin71.com.
Boom Battle Bar
If you like the idea of a long island ice tea with a game of ping pong then Boom Battle Bar is for you. Located in St Enoch Centre, you can enjoy cocktails alongside a variety of games including axe throwing, shuffleboard and crazier nolf (golf with your hands!). Visit boombattlebar.com to find out more.
The Potions Bar at The Root of Magic
For something a bit different, pay a visit to Glasgow’s smallest (and magical) bar at The Root of Magic. Book into a cocktail potions class to create and taste some delicious concoctions with one of their magic professors. Find out more at therootofmagic.com.
Glaschu
Although known for being a restaurant, Glaschu’s bar area overlooking Royal Exchange Square is worth a visit. Their cocktails are named after current or historic Glaswegians. So, you can enjoy a Mackintosh, Marochetti, or The Big Yin away from the hustle and bustle. See the full menu at glaschurestaurant.co.uk.
October
Located on the top floor of Princes Square, October is a relaxed and funky bar and restaurant. Full of a party atmosphere, enjoy a Starburst Cooler or Drumstick Martini mid-shop or pre-club. Or book into one of their brand new cocktail masterclasses, ideal for groups. Find out more at octoberglasgow.co.uk.
The Ivy

Credit :The Ivy Facebook page
Found on Buchanan Street, The Ivy is a luxurious haven to escape from the buzz of the high street. Head upstairs to the first floor to find a stunning onyx bar with mixologists serving up cocktails such as The Ivy Royale and Coffee Negroni. Enjoy them alongside live music from Thursday to Saturday. Book at theivyglasgow.com.
Article last updated: December 2022