Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 12 Bars in Aberdeen You Need to Try (Because We Did, and It Was Awesome!)
A few weeks back, I was just wandering through Aberdeen after an awesome dinner, with one thing on my mind: find a cool spot for a nightcap. As I was meandering around, this totally ordinary-looking front door caught my eye.
I was about to just walk on by when the door creaked open a bit, and I saw this cosy, dimly lit vibe pouring out. So, naturally, my curiosity took over, and I decided to peek inside.
To my surprise, I stumbled into one of the coolest, most intimate bars ever—a speakeasy indeed! Now, if you’re getting intrigued like I did and fancy some hidden adventures, I’ve rounded up some of the best secret bars in Aberdeen for you.
The Tippling House
Media credit: thetipplinghouse
Address: 4 Belmont St.
Contact details: https://www.thetipplinghouse.com/contact
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 12:30 AM
- Friday – 4 PM to 3 AM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 3 AM
The Tippling House gets you sorted with a mix of munchies and drinks. You could start with some fat green chilli and lemon gordal olives or the flatbread drenched in rapeseed oil and sherry vinegar—you know, something light to kick things off.
But hey, don’t stop there—dive into the buttermilk fried chicken bao buns or the sticky Korean-style chicken wings, a definite crowd-pleaser. Their small plates are the real MVPs, but if your stomach’s growling for more, they’ve got larger plates too.
Now, their cocktail craftsmanship is top-tier with seasonal offerings. For the non-alcoholic crowd, their mocktails are far from an afterthought—crafted with the same creativity and care as their spirited counterparts.
Pro tip:
Try to sneak in for their pre-theatre deal from Tuesday to Friday before 6.30pm. You get a couple of these scrumptious small plates or starters with a small glass of wine or tap beer for a cool £19.
Krakatoa
Media credit: krakatoa_bar
Address: 2 Trinity Quay
Contact details: +44 122 458 7602
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday, Thursday – 2 PM to 1 AM
- Wednesday – 2 PM to 2 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 2 PM to 3 AM
Cost: ££
Website
If you find yourself at Trinity Quay with a thirst you can’t seem to shake, wander into Krakatoa. Now, fair warning, they don’t dish out food, but what they do serve is a liquid lineup that could knock the socks off any connoisseur.
From their spirits collection harbouring some rare finds to a whole orchestra of cocktails, this place has your back. And if you’re all about beer, their craft beer game is pretty strong.
Not to mention the ciders, cask ales, and whiskies that beckon from behind the bar. What’s more, they do live music and karaoke, so it’s where the night can twist and turn in all the right ways.
Pro tip:
Keep tabs on their social media for surprise tap takeovers and special events. Oh, and if you’re a regular or planning to be one, their loyalty card program is a no-brainer for some sweet deals on your drinks.
The Old Workshop
Media credit: theoldworkshopbar
Address: 62-64 Shiprow
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 2 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 4 PM to 1 AM
Cost: £
Website
The Old Workshop has learned that people sometimes want a side of grub with their pint, so they’ve roped in some pop-up stalls. We’re talking casual eats done right—burgers, tater tots, fries, sandwiches—kind of like an impromptu meal if you will.
You’ll generally find local favourites flipping up patties or wrapping up some seriously mean sandwiches, adding a tasty twist to your sipping session. It’s like a surprise food truck rendezvous every time you go.
Now for the drinks, it does what it says on the tin: keeps things flowing with a straightforward selection of beers and spirits. They also have inventive spirit cocktails that are worth trying.
Pro tip:
Try to drop in when there’s live music or open mic night happenings. The Old Workshop transforms into the next best thing to being pitchside, with good food, good company, and of course, good drinks.
The Spiritualist Aberdeen
Media credit: documenting_my_dinner
Address: 67 Langstane Pl.
Contact details: +44 122 458 7717
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 4 PM to 11 PM
- Wednesday – 4 AM to 11 PM
- Thursday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
The Spiritualist is where the drinks menu reads like an alchemist’s handbook, and every choice feels like a new adventure. Their expertly crafted cocktails are the stuff of legend.
And if your squad’s torn between wine and spirits, no war needs to be waged here—the wine list is extensive, and the spirits selection is just bonkers in the best possible way.
With more than just a nod to the gin lovers, their gin menu boasts local labels and global stars. Their mocktail section won’t leave you feeling left out, either, especially the virgin apple mojito, which is the best seller.
Pro tip:
Their cocktail masterclasses are not just an elevated night out, but you’ll learn a thing or two about shaking up your own concoctions. Hit them up to find out when the next session is if you’re interested.
Slains Castle Bar
Media credit: slainscastle.aberdeen
Address: 14-18 Belmont St.
Contact details: +44 122 463 1877
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Slains Castle knocks it out of the park if you’re into small plates to share (or hog to yourself; no judgement here). Think nuggets, topped Doritos, and BBQ chips—basically, everything you need for a laid-back night with friends or just to satisfy those munchies.
But hey, it doesn’t stop there. They’re also serving up some delectable chicken wings alongside cheesy or chilli Doritos.
If you want something a bit more substantial, they’ve got wraps, baguettes, and burgers to sink your teeth into. And to wash it all down, there’s a selection of ciders, wines, prosecco, and champagne that’s sure to have something for everyone.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for some deals, keep an eye on their specials. They often have promotions that make those tasty dishes and drinks even more irresistible.
Under the Hammer
Media credit: underthehammeraberdeen
Address: 11 N Silver St.
Contact details: +44 122 464 0253
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Under the Hammer is a treasure trove for those who revel in the joy of platters. If you’re into a bit of Mediterranean flair or have a soft spot for Scottish cheese, they’ve got you covered.
And for my veggie friends out there, they haven’t forgotten about you with their vegetarian platter. Their small plates like balsamic onions and broccoli quiche are nothing to snooze on either.
Oh, and did I mention they have a killer list of cocktails and wines? Because they totally do, making this spot ideal for anyone looking to kick back and enjoy a drink (or two… or three).
Pro tip:
If you’re a wine enthusiast, ask the staff for their recommendations. They’ve got a knack for pairing drinks with food that will elevate your experience.
Orchid Aberdeen
Media credit: orchidcocktails
Address: 51 Langstane Pl.
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday, Sunday – 6 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 6 PM to 3 AM
Cost: ££
Website
Orchid Aberdeen is the spot for the cocktail lovers out there. They’re mixing up flavours and spirits in ways that’ll make your taste buds do a double-take.
For those who prefer to stay on the sober side of the evening, their non-alcoholic concoctions are anything but an afterthought.
Pro tip:
While walk-ins are cool, snagging a reservation can save you from the dreaded wait times during their busier spells. Trust me, it’s worth that tiny bit of foreplanning.
Ninety-Nine Bar
Media credit: ninetynine_aberdeen
Address: 1 Back Wynd
Contact details: +44 122 463 1640
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
If you pride yourself on being a bit of a gin connoisseur or if rum is more your jam, Ninety-Nine Bar will feel like striking gold. Their extensive list of spirits, including some rather unique finds, makes this bar a treasure trove for enthusiasts.
And it’s not just the hard stuff; the selection of wines and craft beers means that even the pickiest drinker will find something to love here. Food-wise, Ninety-Nine Bar takes the tapas-style approach with small plates that pack a punch in the flavour department.
The red pepper hummus is perfectly paired with their crisps for dipping, while the beef and ‘nduja croquette offers a spicy, meaty kick that’s hard to resist. For those looking for a bit more, you can check out the stuffed mushrooms, pasta and pizzas.
Pro tip:
Their cocktail menu changes seasonally, so there’s always a reason to come back and try something new. And for those looking for a great deal, keep an eye out for their drink specials.
Dusk Cocktail Bar
Media credit: duskcocktailbar
Address: 45 Langstane Pl.
Contact details: +44 122 459 4430
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday, Thursday – 6 PM to 2 AM
- Friday – 6 PM to 3 AM
- Saturday – 3 PM to 3 AM
If you’ve got a taste for tapas and killer cocktails, you have to check out Dusk Cocktail Bar. This is where you’ll get your fix of well-shaken or stirred beverages from a list that seems to know no bounds.
The fusion of local and international spirits, not to mention the champagne, wines, and brews on tap and bottle, are enough to make anyone’s night. And if you’re feeling peckish, their tapas are nothing short of a flavour fiesta.
Seriously, from chorizo bathed in wine to sumptuous gambas and crispy calamares, they’re doing it right.
Pro tip:
It can get packed, especially on the weekends, so if you’ve got your heart set on their tapas and cocktails, a reservation would be a smooth move.
CASC Bar
Media credit: cascaberdeen
Address: 7 Stirling St.
Contact details: +44 122 421 2373
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Cost: ££
Website
CASC Bar isn’t your average bar; it’s like they’ve taken the concept of indulgence and run with it. We’re talking about a lineup of coffees, whiskies, spirits, scotch, and ales that can make a connoisseur’s heart sing.
And yes, for those who like to puff, they offer Cuban cigars. Now, how often do you find a place that marries the worlds of fine drinks and cigars with such class?
By the way, they don’t serve food, which means the entire focus is on their extensive drink selection. This is the kind of place where you can start your day with a rich, aromatic coffee and end it sipping on a meticulously crafted whisky or spirit of choice.
Pro tip:
If you happen to find something you love at their alcohol collections, everything from their exquisite drinks to their luxurious cigars can be purchased directly from their online shop for your convenience.
St. Machar Bar
Media credit: stmacharbar
Address: 97 High St, Old Aberdeen
Contact details: +44 122 448 3079
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
St. Machar Bar is where you should come for the whisky—they’ve sometimes got these tasting sessions that are an absolute dream for whisky lovers.
When the hunger pangs hit, they don’t mess around—the St. Machar Cathedral burger is talked about for good reason, and the double-dose veggie burger holds its own too.
Plus, if you’re coming with a group, their array of mains and sides like chicken fillets, nachos, and the classic mozzarella sticks will keep everyone happy. Stick around for the quiz nights every Tuesday because who doesn’t love a little trivia with their tipple?
Pro tip:
With those quiz nights, it’s the perfect excuse to turn a weeknight into an unexpectedly fun outing. Get there early to grab a good table and prep your taste buds for a good time.
Soul
Media credit: soulaberdeen
Address: 333 Union St.
Contact details: +44 122 421 1150
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Soul on Union Street really does have soul, and not just in name. When it comes to starters, we’re talking calamari, haggis bon bons, and corn ribs that’ll get your fingers messy in the best possible way.
If that’s just the beginning for you, then brace yourself for a wild ride of chicken wings, flatbreads, rice bowls, and hefty mains like ribeye steak and Thai curry.
And to wash all that down, they’re serving up a hefty selection of gins, cocktails, and beers that keeps the night flowing smoothly.
Pro tip:
They’ve got portions that’ll challenge even the hungriest of souls, so if you’re looking to try a variety of dishes, going in a group would be your best bet. Sharing is caring, after all—especially when it comes to good food and great drinks.
