Celebrate the end of Dry January in these Edinburgh hotspots

Where better to indulge in fine wine than at Little Rascal? Here, the focus is on small producers who make great wines in a sustainable way. The team works closely with independent suppliers to bring customers a diverse and continually rotating selection of wines. The bar has a real neighbourhood feel (enhanced by the friendly and welcoming staff), and the decor is beautiful — chic and sophisticated, it’s decked out with beautiful wooden tables, a gorgeous bar, and romantic low-lighting. Enjoy your drink with a plate or two of top-notch charcuterie and soak up the buzzing atmosphere.

Opened in September 2008 by Stuart McCluskey, The Bon Vivant seeks to create an environment similar to those found on the continent; where dining is often informal and casual, yet of a very high standard. We think that The Bon Vivant does this with aplomb. Serving simple but well executed, seasonal plates in chilled-out but sophisticated surroundings, here you’ll feel positively European. Alongside a range of tasty tapas-style dishes like smoked mackerel pate and beetroot tartare sits a stunning cocktail menu that offers something for everyone. There’s everything from crowd pleasing daiquiris and decadent pina coladas, to more unusual numbers like the ‘reverse Manhattan’. Don’t quite know what you fancy? One of the expert bar staff will happily offer some advice.

Outhouse describes itself first and foremost as a ‘quirky, hidden hangout’. Off the beaten track, low-key and arty, it serves up some of the best craft beer in Edinburgh. The selection of beers is vast and includes a number of locally brewed numbers. The staff are also more than happy to let you sample a few if you’re undecided! We love it for its homeliness and warmth, and though Outhouse doesn’t serve its own food, there’s an agreement with neighbouring Italian restaurant La Locanda to order tasty food straight to the bar. Excellent craft beer and Italian food? Win!

If there’s one thing the Scots do well — it’s whisky! And after a booze-free month, what sounds better than a ‘wee dram’ at one of Edinburgh’s most authentic Scottish eateries? The emphasis at Howies is on seasonal fare and locally sourced ingredients. The venison comes from its own estate in Perthshire, the beef comes from a butcher in Lauder, and the salmon and mussels are sourced from the Shetland Isles. The whisky menu is extensive (there’s over 35 to choose from!) with options from the highlands, islands, lowlands, Islay and Speyside. An Edinburgh must-visit!

Where better to enjoy a G&T than in a specialist gin bar? Located in the West End of Edinburgh, The Jolly Botanist is loved by locals and tourists alike. With its unique Victorian-inspired interiors and illustrious selection of gins, whiskies and cocktails — there’s no other place quite like it in the city. There are gins from all over the world, as well as a number of different tonics to go alongside them. Whether you’re after something sweet, dry, citrusy, or a gin you’ve never even heard of, this is the spot for you! Enjoy your gin (or gins, plural!) with some exquisitely prepared bites of food; the crispy veggie haggis spring rolls and salt and pepper squid make quite the accompaniment!