Scotland’s next World Cup clash is set to deliver a major boost to pubs across the country, with an estimated 520,000 extra pints expected to be sold for Friday night’s match against Morocco – worth around £2.6 million to the trade, analysis by the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA).
The forecast follows a strong showing for Scotland’s opening match against Haiti, which is estimated by the SBPA and Oxford Partnership to have driven sales of at least 380,000 extra pints, worth around £1.9 million to pubs and bars across Scotland.
While Scotland’s opening game against Haiti kicked off at 2am BST on Sunday morning, Friday’s match against Morocco starts at a far more pub-friendly 11pm BST, giving licensees a significantly better opportunity to benefit from the occasion.
Paul Togneri, from the Scottish Beer and Pub Association, said: “Scotland’s return to the World Cup has given pubs a much-needed welcome boost, with early indications suggesting at least 380,000 extra pints were sold for the Haiti game despite the 2am kick-off.
“It’s an incredible result following an incredible match.
“With Friday night’s clash against Morocco starting at a much more pub-friendly 11pm we expect an even bigger boost, with over half a million extra pints to be poured in pubs and bars across the country.
“That would be worth upwards of £2.6 million to the trade, which is hugely welcome for venues still battling high costs.
“If you can’t be in Boston, there’s no better place than the pub. We’d urge supporters to get down to their local, back the team and cheer Scotland on together.”
Independent brewing and blending duo unveil citywide collaboration
A MODERN twist on a traditional Scottish serve is being poured across Edinburgh this festive season, as two of the city’s leading independent drinks producers announce a flavour-led collaboration.
Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing have joined forces to launch a new partnership rooted in shared values of independence, craftsmanship and community.
To celebrate the launch, the two brands have revived the iconic half and half serve – a dram of whisky served with a half pint of beer – with curated pairings across a hand-picked selection of the capital’s most beloved pubs.
The initial rollout sees the Edinburgh-based firms partnership activate in 10 venues citywide, with plans already in place for further expansion into the New Year.
Wemyss Family Spirits was established by siblings Isabella and William Wemyss in 2005 and has since carved out a reputation for exceptional single malts and blended whiskies. Stewart Brewing, founded by Steve and Jo Stewart in 2004, has grown from a small operation in Loanhead into one of Scotland’s most recognisable craft breweries, while remaining fiercely independent.
Both businesses have proudly remained family-run, rooted in local communities and guided by a deep passion for quality and innovation.
William Wemyss, Co-Founder of Wemyss Family Spirits, said: “This partnership is about more than just great drinks – it’s about celebrating Edinburgh’s independent spirit and reviving a uniquely Scottish tradition in a way that fits modern tastes.
“The half and half is steeped in pub culture, traditionally served as a quarter gill measure of whisky alongside a half pint of beer. It’s about slowing down and savouring each sip – something worth championing, especially during the festive season.
“Both Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing were built on strong family foundations, and that shared ethos shines through in everything from how we work to what we pour.
“Our half and half drinks pairings reflect the diversity of both our ranges and of the city’s venues.”
The new pairings are available now across 11 local venues:
The Black Cat, Rose Street
The Auld Hundred, Rose Street
Whighams Wine Cellars, Hope Street
The Cambridge Bar, Young Street
The Abbotsford Bar & Restaurant, Rose Street
The Ensign Ewart, Lawnmarket
56 North, West Crosscauseway
Teuchters, William Street
O’Connors, Broughton Road
Athletic Arms (Diggers), Angle Park Terrace
The Bow Bar, Victoria Street
A recommended combination includes Stewart Brewing’s 80/- ale alongside Wemyss’ Spice King blended malt. Another popular match sees the rich Edinburgh Black Stout paired with the smoky Peat Chimney.
Jo Stewart, Co-founder of Stewart Brewing, said: “Both our businesses have grown from the same foundations – family values and flavour-first products.
“By combining the flavour-pairings of Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing, we’re giving Edinburgh’s clientele the opportunity to mix and match their favourite combinations while showcasing two of Scotland’s best-loved drinks.
“It’s a celebration of the city’s pubs and their staff, who play a huge role in making these pairings come to life.”
With the initiative already generating interest among customers and trade partners, Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing are planning further activation for 2026, including tasting events, influencer campaigns and potential online product launches.
The duo hopes that this first wave of festive and New Year pairings will lay the foundation for a longer-term programme that celebrates independent businesses, sustainable practices and Scotland’s vibrant pub culture.
The countdown is officially on for one of the biggest nights in Scotland’s hospitality calendar – the Edinburgh Bar Awards 2025, as the longlist of nominees is revealed.
Now in its second year in the Capital, the awards will culminate in the Edinburgh Bartenders’ Ball, taking over The Biscuit Factory on Monday 22nd September 2025. Promising an end-of-summer blowout like no other, the Ball will bring together Edinburgh’s bar community for an unforgettable night of cocktails, music, food, and celebration.
This year, more than 150 bars, bartenders, and hospitality stars have made the longlist across 11 categories, following an overwhelming public response to nominations. From iconic cocktail institutions and legendary pubs to fresh talent shaking up the city, the longlist is a true showcase of the people and places that make Edinburgh one of the world’s leading drinking destinations.
And now, it’s time to vote. The longlist will be narrowed down to five finalists per category, with results decided by a 50/50 public and trade vote. The final winners will be revealed live at the Edinburgh Bartenders’ Ball.
Every vote counts – nominations close on 31st August, so get voting for your favourite before it’s too late.
Speaking about the longlist, David Smillie, co-founder and organiser of the Bar Awards and Bartender’s Ball, said: “Edinburgh is home to some of the best bars and bartenders in the world, and this year’s Edinburgh Bar Awards longlist proves it.
“This city’s talent, creativity and community spirit is unmatched, and the Bartenders’ Ball is our chance to celebrate that together in style. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to The Biscuit Factory this September for what promises to be the ultimate industry party.”
Tickets for the Edinburgh Bartenders’ Ball, priced at just £35, are on sale now.
The event includes complimentary drinks, food, entertainment, and a night of industry celebration.
2025 Categories & Longlist (alphabetical order within each category)
Best Bar 4042 • Bittersweet • Bramble • Chancho • Dragonfly • Hey Palu • Lucky Liquor • Old Pal • Panda & Sons • The Bonnington • The Cocktail Geeks • The Powder Room • The Raging Bull • The Volley Leith • Uno Mas
Best Pub Athletic Arms (Diggers) • Bennets of Morningside • The Black Cat • The Bonnington • The Finch • The Golden Rule • The Hanging Bat • Joker & The Thief • Kay’s Bar • Malt & Hops • The Mother Superior • Nauticus • The Oxford Bar • St Vincent Bar • Teuchters (Landing & West End)
Best Restaurant Bar The Alchemist • Bittersweet • Bonnie & Wild • Copper Blossom • The Devil’s Advocate • Hawksmoor • Leith Depot • Little Capo • Lucky Yu • Old Pal • Paradise Palms • Smith & Gertrude • Tipo • The Bonnington • Voyage of Buck
Best Bar Team Bramble • The Bonnington • The Cocktail Geeks • The Mother Superior • Hey Palu • Lucky Liquor • Nauticus • Nightcap • Old Pal • Panda & Sons • The Powder Room • The Raging Bull • The Three Sisters • Voodoo Rooms • West Port Oracle
Best Late Night Venue 4042 • Banshee Labyrinth • Liquid Rooms • The Jazz Bar • The Mother Superior • Nightcap • NQ64 • Paradise Palms • The Raging Bull • Sneaky Pete’s • Stramash • The Street • Tonic • Uno Mas • The Voodoo Rooms
Unsung Hero Adam Fraser Gray (Herman) • Anthony Crowther • Ben Leslie • Cam Chittleborough • Cullen Hutchison • Dom Cummings • Fiona Hamilton • Gavin Whyte • Jane Ross • Kaelum-Ian Mullen • Kristaps Baranovs • Logan Pope • Mon Nelson • Sam Baxendale • Sian Buchan
Rising Star Cal Lister • Cameron Finlay • Emily Weston • Flora Luckman • Freja Kemp • Jack Smith • Ketan Mackenzie • Levi Reed • Logan Pope • Noah French • Pierre Martin • Saul Lavelle • Walt Webster-Curran
Best Shake Alessia Impedovo • Ben Jones • Cameron Chittleborough • Connor Bleakley • Fowwaz Ansari • Jake Harris • Jay Braby • Kielan Davidson • Logan Pope • Pierre Martin • Sam Baxendale • Sam Milne • Saul Lavelle • Stuart McBain • Toby Peters
Best Cocktail Baltic Bru • Bramble • Coco Colada • Feta Mezcal Negroni • Indominous • Make Love Not Warcraft • Paper Dragon • The Perfect Pear • Port Hayward • Porridge Colada • Spicy Peach Margarita • Spring Fizz • Stinger • Sweet Manhattan • Yuzu Margarita
Social Star Ben Greig • Camille Le Courtois • Carrie Smith • Chloe Archibald-Ansari • Chloe Yeung • Gracie Goggins • Groundskeeper (Murray Tait) • Kaelum Mullen • Lara Sinclair • Millie Harley • Rachel Dixon • Ross Lawrie • Ryan Snedden • Tasha Corfield • Cal Lister
Far Side of the Bar Adam Murphy • Ashton Williamson • Connie Macdonald • Damian Koval • Dan Bartley • Dana Crombie • Ellie Raeside • Josh Knox • Kaitlin Wilkes • Mike McGinty • Niamh Savage • Ross Lawrie • Ruth Mason • Ryan Snedden • Stevie Aitken
The Edinburgh Bar Awards take place at The Edinburgh Bartender’s Ball at The Biscuit Factory on Monday, 22nd September 2025. Tickets include complimentary drinks, food, and entertainment, and cost £35.
The school summer holidays are quickly approaching, starting with the term ending on Thursday, 26th June. Kids are ready to start the fun, but that doesn’t mean adults should miss out on a little break, too.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is spicing things up during the week by introducing ‘Own The Week’, with a different deal hitting the menu from Monday through Thursday each week, allowing guests to treat themselves without breaking the bank and turn a weekday night into a weekend vibe.
Mega Monday Margaritas start the week right with jumbo versions of the classic, bursting with flavour – perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). At £13.95 each, they’re the ideal way to toast to summer.
Tako Tiki Tuesdays lets you pair your choice of two tacos and a tiki drink, for the perfect summer match. Choose from either Baja shrimp, chopped cheese, buffalo chicken or al pastor, paired with a cocktail like the ‘Cheeky Tiki’ or ‘Tiki Tiki Boom Boom’ for just £20. As an extra treat, collective tiki glasses can be purchased for £7.50 – it’s tiki time somewhere!
Winning Wednesdays are for the wine lovers. Order a bottle of house wine to receive a complimentary plate of the delicious Tupelo Dippers – crispy hand breaded chicken tenders served with your choice of two dipping sauces.
Throwback Thursdaysare made for dining on old-school throwbacks, prepared the Hard Rock way. Dive into an iconic classic burger, fries, a side of onion rings and refreshing Coke Float for just £19.71.
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 Adds Two New Categories and Voting Deadline Extended!
Scotland’s hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened! Two brand new categories have been added to this year’s awards lineup: Community Pub of the Year and Hotel Bar of the Year, recognising the vital role these venues play in Scottish hospitality!
To give these deserving establishments the recognition they’ve earned, voting has been extended until Friday 20th June – giving customers extra time to back their favourites for glory!
With the deadline looming, now’s your last chance to rally behind the venues and hospitality heroes who deserve their moment in the spotlight. Make sure they’re in the running!
From bustling bars and traditional pubs to vibrant restaurants and buzzing late-night venues – plus the bartending talent behind the magic – it’s time to propel your local hospitality heroes onto the national stage.
This year’s stellar lineup includes categories like Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award, De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues, Favela Independent Multiple Operator of the Year, HOSPO Manager of the Year and Jameson Best Irish Bar – proving there’s a spotlight waiting for every corner of Scotland’s hospitality scene.
Event organiser, Susan Young said, “These category additions reflect the incredible diversity of Scotland’s bar and pub scene. Community pubs are the heartbeat of Scottish towns and villages, while hotel bars deliver world-class experiences that put Scotland on the global hospitality map. Both deserve their moment in the spotlight.
“We’ve been thrilled by the outstanding entries received thus far, and there’s still time to nominate the bars and people who make Scotland’s hospitality scene truly special. It’s time to help us celebrate the incredible talent across the country!”
Marking three decades as Scotland’s premier licensed trade awards, the 2025 ceremony celebrates a milestone 30th year. Judges will once again embark on covert missions across the country, conducting mystery visits from the Highlands to the Borders to uncover Scotland’s hospitality gems.
Voting is easy, just go to www.scottishbarandpubawards.comand you can vote in as many different categories as you like. Voting closes on the 20th of June, finalists will be announced, and the winners will be crowned at the glittering award ceremony in Glasgow on the 26th of August!
You can also find a full list of all categories on the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards website and socials.
Deadline for Nominations – 20th June 2024
For a full list of categories and to vote please go to:
Edinburgh’s premier leisure and entertainment destination, Omni Centre, has announced a £5 million refurbishment and works are set to begin this month.
International investment group Triple B acquired OMNi in April 2024 and announced its commitment to enhancing communities and promoting positive experiences through transformative real estate projects. The investment will help OMNi kick-start its journey of evolution, with locals at the heart of the project.
The public realm refurbishment will include improvements to walkways and new flooring throughout the centre, an enhanced main entrance with improved visibility, replacement LED lighting, new seating zones and substantial internal structural work to create inviting spaces for visitors to meet, dwell and enjoy. Works are expected to be completed later this year.
Martin Botha, OMNi Edinburgh Centre Manager, said: “We are thrilled to announce our improvement plans for OMNi, a project that reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for our visitors and a bustling environment for our brands.
“This transformation will bring exciting new features, modern amenities, a brand revamp and the introduction of live events and experiences, creating a space that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the 4+ million visitors we welcome each year.
“We’re on a mission to inject a sense of fun and excitement into everyone’s visit and at each brand touchpoint, whether that’s meeting up with friends before venturing out into the city or spending quality downtime in-centre, day or night.
” We look forward to embarking on this exciting new chapter and truly owning the title of Edinburgh’s top leisure destination.”
Thomas Archer Bata, Director at Triple B, said: “Triple B is committed to investing in OMNi to enhance the wider community and support the brands within.
“This refurbishment marks the start of a brand-new phase for OMNi; the physical enhancements, coupled with a new mission to integrate and connect further into the vibrant city of Edinburgh, will deliver a greatly improved and welcoming space for our visitors, whilst enhancing the overall customer experience.”
The centre refurbishment coincides with brand-led refurbishments with more news on this soon. OMNi and its brands will remain open and fully accessible throughout the refurbishment project.
Refurbishment updates will be available throughout via the OMNi website and social media channels. OMNi Edinburgh is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including Bank Holidays.
As Robbie Williams prepares to take to the Murrayfield stage at the end of May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is kicking things off early to celebrate his arrival in the capital.
On Friday 30th May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh turns back the clock for one night only to host the exclusive Hard ‘Rock DJ’ Night, celebrating the best of 90s music and nightlife.
From 7pm until late, the iconic George Street venue will come alive with a high-energy DJ set packed with 90s floor-fillers, sing-along classics and Robbie’s top hits, perfect for those who can’t make the concert the next day.
More than just a night of music, the restaurant will be serving up its full menu, available until 10:30 pm, featuring favourites such as the Legendary® Burgers, spicy wings, and signature cocktails, making it the perfect fuel for a night on the dancefloor.
Whilst the event is free to attend, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable or Event Brite.
Edinburgh-based Ruma – home to the largest collection of rum across the whole of Scotland – is adapting to an ever-changing cocktail scene with a brand-new low-waste menu including non-alcoholic & non-rum options, launching an online shop, plus a host of new tasting experiences.
Ruma (Scots Gaelic for Rum) host to over 170 bottles of the spirit – more than any bar ever in Scotland – is celebrating one year in business.
The rum experts are adjusting positively to a rapidly-evolving cocktail scene with a brand-new cocktail menu including a host of non-rum and non-alcoholic options, as well as launching an online shop in time for summer 2025.
Ruma’s brand-new menu is split into five sections based on each drink’s flavour profile: Fresh, Fruity, Short, Smoke & Savoury, and Classics – the idea is to make it as easy as possible for guests to navigate, learn & discover new cocktails – alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic.
Reducing waste throughout, the menu strives to use each ingredient to its fullest. Ruma’s most popular drink, the Spiced Pear Mule – which uses a poached pear syrup from fresh pears – is utilised to the maximum.
Any wasted fruit from the Spiced Pear Mule is then blended with spent wine, to create a new drink – the Mrs Kenmore – which is carbonated alongside a gentian liqueur and Brugal 1888 Rum, to create a fresh, fizzy cocktail reminiscent of sparkling wine.
A new online bottle shop will launch at the beginning of May containing all 170 of the Ruma’s rums available for rum-lovers to enjoy 30ml sample bottles at home. Ruma is also launching a range of canned cocktails for the new menu, handing them out to local businesses and bars to create comradery among independent business owners.
Ruma now offers ‘Rum Experiences’ – bookable each week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. A tasting flight of three rums, with different categories available such as ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ or ‘Intro to Scottish Rum’.
The bar also hosts ‘Passport Sessions’, a world tour of rum tastings specialising in a different country each month and sampling six hard to find or rare bottlings, taking guests to the likes of Guyana, Haiti, Barbados, and Martinique.
Ruma Co-Owner, Jamie Shields, said: “We opened Ruma one year ago to welcome the largest collection of Rum to Scotland. The response from our loyal guests has been amazing. A thirst for knowledge and interest in where each rum comes from and tastes like is what our staff love talking about.
“In our first year we have seen a demand for cocktails and drinks of all types. At our heart we will always be a rum bar, but we also thought ‘why can’t we offer a range of other drinks too?’ Non-alcoholic options are now key in hospitality. Rather than relegating these to a section at the back of the menu, we believe that guests who are not drinking alcohol should have the same menu experience as those who are, as each has been crafted with as much care as the drinks with alcohol.
“We love championing local. That’s why we serve local beer from Campervan Brewery, and we also have a great wine list by the glass too. Ruma’s goal is to serve the widest range of rum in the country through unforgettable experiences, but also offer deliciously alternative drinks to ensure guests leave with a satisfied smile on their face, and always come back for more”.
Ruma is based at 39-41 Broughton Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town serving Scotland’s largest collection of rum.
The wait is over! Manahatta, the stylish bar and restaurant inspired by the glitz and glamour of New York City, is now officially open in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city centre, Manahatta brings a vibrant blend of cocktails, dining, and nightlife to Scotland’s capital.
The new venue on Rose Street showcases a stunning interior that blends modern aesthetics with glamorous touches that are designed to transport guests straight to the Big Apple. From the chic décor to indulgent food and drink menus, Manahatta is the perfect destination whether you’re looking for a lively brunch experience or a glam night out. The Edinburgh location will also debut an unforgettable ‘LIVE & LOUD Piano Night’ every Thursday where guests can enjoy live music, request songs and dance the night away.
When it comes to drinks, there is something for everyone, with £7 cocktails from Monday to Thursday and a menu brimming with endless options including the Diamonds are Forever sharer – a delicious mix of Bacardí Carta Blanca, watermelon, kiwi, cranberry, apple, and lime, served in a giant sparkling diamond, plus other signature drinks from the Six in The City collection.
As well as a selection of carefully created cocktails, prepare to feast on a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. From the NY Club Bagel and Karaage Chicken Bowl to the delectable Bao Buns and famed Steak Frites, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Manahatta’s legendary Boozy Brunch has also arrived in Edinburgh, and it’s not to be missed! Running until 8pm daily, this brunch bonanza includes six delightful drinks and dishes from the main menu, serving up the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. It’s the ultimate way to unwind, sing, dance, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Set across two floors the impressive new venue boasts art deco-inspired bars and bold lighting that channels New York realness. A stunning mirrored disco ball, reminiscent of Times Square’s famous ball drop, adds a touch of glamour and an elevated DJ booth looks over the sprawling dancefloor – setting the perfect scene for chic gatherings and unforgettable parties.
Manahatta Edinburgh is open seven days a week, with both dining and late-night options available. Bookings are now open, and reservations can be made via the official website or by calling the venue.
Martin Wolstencroft, CEO, Arc Inspirations said: “We are over the moon that our first official site in Scotland is now open and what better place to get the party started than in Edinburgh – the capital city.
“Manahatta is more than just a cocktail bar; it’s a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. We can’t wait to welcome Edinburgh locals and visitors to newest spot in town.”
Hectors in Stockbridge has officially reopened following an extensive 5 week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look.
The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include a new hand-carved wooden gantry, brand new furniture and fresh frontage colour scheme.
Hectors is renowned for its friendly and welcoming team, as well as the selection of comforting Scottish pub fayre. The pub itself takes its name from Sir James Hector, a Scottish-New Zealand geologist, naturalist, and surgeon who originated from Stockbridge in 1834.
Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and truffled oyster mushroom pie, classic fish and chips and delicious beef brisket burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts.
Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, British Gins and an exciting range of whisky.
Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Alex Bruce at Hectors said: ‘This is an exciting time, not only for Hectors, but for the people of Stockbridge. Our aim is simple, to serve delicious food, great drinks, and friendly service to all of our guests.
“Our fresh new look, matched with our welcoming team, will go hand in hand to provide Stockbridge with an excellent local pub where everyone is welcome.”
Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, several new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests.
