Five bars to visit during Aberdeen Cocktail Week 2023
18 October 2023
The Aberdeen bar scene is one of Scotland’s most thriving when it comes to showcasing top talent and creative drinks. Not only is it home to some of the UK’s best and most respected bartenders, but it is also known for its diverse offering.
Aberdeen Cocktail Week, which takes place from today (Wednesday October 18) to Tuesday October 24, is a celebration of the hospitality and bar scene in the Granite City and its return for a second year has seen some of the leading bars sign up to get involved.
With more than 30 venues taking part there’s plenty for wristband holders to discover.
Whether that be some of the unique drinks specially crafted for the event or a new venue you’re still to discover, the event signifies the importance of celebrating the thriving scene.
Here are some of the bars you won't want to miss during Aberdeen Cocktail Week 2023.
Ninety-Nine
Ninety-Nine is one of the coolest bars in the city. It’s relaxed but buzzing vibe makes it a popular watering hole for many, and there’s always an eclectic mix of people hanging out here. The team are all about artful mixology. Here, at the Back Wynd venue, you can enjoy carefully crafted cocktails made with precision and passion. They’ve also got a coffee window where you can grab a hot drink which is well worth a visit if passing by.
Image Credit: Aberdeen Cocktail Week
Bartenders Lounge
This newer establishment on the city’s North Silver Street has been making waves since it opened in December 2022. Bartenders Lounge is a place for classic and sophisticated cocktails with a twist. The venue has a cosy feel and I hear there may even be a small plates menu headed our way...
Image Credit: Aberdeen Cocktail Week
Under the Hammer
It isn’t unusual to see the odd famous face here and you’ll usually find some of the actors and musicians from the best shows at His Majesty’s Theatre propping up the bar with a night cap. The beloved space had a makeover when The McGinty’s Group took over the venue and now offers a blend of cocktails, whisky, beer and more. Under The Hammer is a must-visit destination. The bar is also located on North Silver Street.
Image Credit: Aberdeen Cocktail Week
Dusk
Known for its expertly crafted drinks, Dusk is the ideal spot to sample innovative cocktails that will excite your taste buds. This Langstane Place venue has been a staple of the Aberdeen cocktail scene for at least a decade and continues to be one of the top places to grab a drink.
Image Credit: Aberdeen Cocktail Week
The Albyn
A classic and elegant venue, The Albyn's cocktails are as sophisticated as its interior. Their mixologists are sure to impress and will always go the extra mile. Be sure to check out their boozy brunch offering and their terrace menu, although grab a blanket when it is colder because Scottish winters can be chilly. You’ll find The Albyn on Albyn Place.
Image Credit: Aberdeen Cocktail Week
As well as the line-up of diverse drinks on offer, Aberdeen Cocktail Week 2023 also boasts a variety of fun events for festival goers to get involved in.
From cocktail masterclasses at Revolucion de Cuba and tastings at Faffless to art and cocktail classes as Second Home Cafe, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
There are 25 plus other venues to explore, so be sure to check those out, too.
Aberdeen Cocktail Week is the perfect opportunity to expand your mixology knowledge or simply catch up with loved ones. A whole host of non-alcoholic serves will also be available to sample.
So, gather your friends and mark your calendar as the week-long journey through the city’s finest bars and venues begins!
All information is correct at the time of publishing, we recommend that you check opening times and information for individual places before visiting.