Copyright scotsman
The team behind the Caledonian Edinburgh have unveiled an exciting new chapter in its history with the relaunch of The Caley Bar – now reimagined as Edinburgh’s newest cocktail and listening bar. The team said it’ll be “a space to unwind, connect and immerse yourself in sound”, The Caley Bar will offer a contemporary experience that pairs premium cocktails with high-fidelity vinyl music in the heart of the city. Sign up to our free Scran food and drink newsletter here Inspired by Japan’s celebrated Jazz Kissa culture, where people go specifically to listen carefully to jazz records, The Caley Bar will have a Scottish perspective, celebrating craftsmanship, local partnerships and the city’s vibrant creative scene. Located within the historic The Caledonian Edinburgh, the bar’s design by Cunningham McLean subtly weaves musical and textural references throughout the space. At its centre, vinyl turntables take pride of place as the room’s focal point, surrounded by plush booths, soft seating and a welcoming bar where guests can interact with the team and explore the drinks and spirits. A vast collection of records and live DJ sets ensure the atmosphere evolves throughout the evening, with the music curated to match the rhythm and energy of the bar. The new cocktail menu is a collaborative creation from The Caledonian Edinburgh’s talented bar team, designed to showcase the best of local ingredients and premium craftsmanship. Signature cocktails include Birch, blending birch sap vodka, vintage apple eau de vie, birch caramel and green tea-infused vermouth. Served in a locally crafted ceramic tumbler, it embodies the bar’s spirit of Scottish craftsmanship. Alongside the drinks, guests can enjoy a curated selection of refined bar bites, both savoury and sweet, created to complement the cocktails. The bar team has also curated a collection of rare and hard-to-find bottlings across whisky and other spirits, available exclusively to guests seeking something out of the ordinary. Matthew Swan, food and beverage operations manager at The Caledonian Edinburgh said: “The Caley Bar is all about atmosphere. From the warmth of the lighting to the sound of vinyl spinning through the room, it’s a space where people can slow down, connect and really enjoy the moment. The music, the cocktails, the setting - everything has been designed to feel effortless and inviting.” The relaunch of The Caley Bar marks the latest in a series of large-scale developments at The Caledonian Edinburgh, following continued investment from owners Henderson Park and management by Klarent Hospitality. The Caley Bar is located within The Caledonian Edinburgh at the West End of Princes Street, beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle and guests can book now to visit the exciting new venue, opening from November 1.
