Lady Libertine in Edinburgh, City of

We had high hopes for Lady Libertine during a special weekend in Edinburgh, but unfortunately, the experience turned out to be really disappointing. Despite booking a table four weeks in advance for 7:30 PM, our evening was riddled with poor service, lack of communication, and an unwelcoming atmosphere. When we arrived, our table wasn’t ready. We were directed to the bar, but it was so overcrowded that we couldn’t sit down, or even stand at the bar to order a drink. Standing in a cramped, noisy corner with people pushing past us was not the start we’d expected. Once eventually seated, things didn’t improve. Despite requesting a romantic table, we were placed next to a loud party of 12, making conversation impossible. To add to the frustration, the menu was misleading, featuring items like Jersey Royals, which definitely aren’t in season in December, raising concerns about the menu’s authenticity. The real disappointment came when we tried to order. Six dishes were unavailable, including my first, second, and third choices, yet this wasn’t mentioned when we were handed the menu - which was only a small menu to begin with. To make matters worse, the server’s lack of communication and absence of an apology left us feeling pretty dismissed and upset. We waited ages for food, with no updates from the staff nor checkback to offer more drinks, while nearby tables—seated after us—were already receiving their meals. By 8:30 PM, having had just one drink, with no sign of our food, and with our booking due to end at 9 PM, we decided to leave and get a takeaway instead. Having been there for over an hour - two thirds of the time they’d allowed us for our booking - the only thing we had consumed was one drink each, which we paid for before walking out. For a restaurant with the slogan “experience the extraordinary”, the only extraordinary thing about it was how utterly rubbish it was. The evening was a complete letdown. Poor organisation, inattentive service, and an unwelcoming atmosphere ruined what was supposed to be a memorable night. As it may have been a one-off, we emailed the restaurant with our feedback directly before posting a review, to highlight the issues and request an explanation. We received an automated response to say we’d receive a reply within 48 hours - but, more than 48 hours later, we haven’t received any acknowledgment from them, suggesting that they simply do not care. If you’re considering Lady Libertine, I’d recommend looking elsewhere: the overwhelming impression we got was that they care only for overcrowding their venue with excessive bookings and walk-ins to make as much money as possible, irrespective of the impact on guest experience. Edinburgh has so many brilliant restaurants and this is not one of them. Unless your idea of a great evening is sitting in a dark noisy cave and being ignored for an hour, go literally anywhere else.

As a group of 4 friends we were really happy to get a reservation at Lady Libertines for drinks. Communication for the booking was excellent. The female team member who looked after our table was amazing- very efficient, friendly and knowledgeable. The music provided by the DJ was great and enhanced a great atmosphere. Thanks

Wow what an amazing atmosphere! Phoebe made our visit very comfortable. The music was phenomenal!

Chilled. Djs on the weekends. AMAZING cocktails and service!

Overall, the service was efficient and the food was okay. Calamari for starters were delicious, the mains were good, but nothing spectacular. We were seated near two large, noisy tables, which made it extremely difficult to have a conversation. It felt more like being in a club rather than a restaurant, which affected the overall dining experience. Additionally, it was my partner's birthday, and I had mentioned this in the booking form. In our past dining experiences, restaurants have often acknowledged such occasions with a kind gesture or greeting. Unfortunately, there was no acknowledgment during our visit, which left us feeling a little disappointed.

Had the xmas set menu, and it was acceptable, at best, nothing else. Sauce on the beef and the turkey options was way way way way too salty, did they even taste it? Looked pretty however! Desserts weren't even what we pre ordered, instead, quite possibly, the driest sponge I've even eaten was served in place of a praline torte, yet absolutely gaslighted like it was "some from of" torte!. It was a sponge, at least serve it with some cream or sauce, I couldn't even finish it, it was so dry! Service was just none existent, i guess the server was busy - but I had to ask if we could order some drinks after the starter was served?! No offer of coffees afterwards etc, just lacking. First busy weekend for Xmas I assume, but that doesn't bode well for the next two. Server forgot to put the service charge on, but was more than happy to correct that mistake 😉 Overall it was fine, but ultimately poor value for money IMO, plenty better around Edinburgh.

Stunning setting with lovely staff. Shout out to Zac - an absolute gem.

Great cocktails, great sounds and atmosphere tonight.

Best negroni this side of Italy

Excellent service, lovely surroundings and great company. Recommended

Perfect place for catch up over lunch with a friend. Food lovely, and member of staff looking after us really attentive, but we never felt rushed.

Intimate and welcoming, this serene break during our stay was made sublime by the warmest staff. The food matches the atmosphere: sophisticated. Go there with your eyes closed, as much to taste a delicious cocktail as to savor tasty dishes.

Fantastic food, very reasonable prices and generous portions !!!

Excellent place for a short break. Pleasant staff, cozy setting, delicious food.

Just popped in for a drink really nice staff, service very quick for a Saturday afternoon and it's a great atmosphere very dark downstairs but that adds to the intimate atmosphere would definitely return

Love love love! Food is devine - so delicious- with a cozy atmosphere and outstanding service.

Drinks are nice but it’s not really a “discretionary” service charge if you’re not told about it upfront! Especially as it was bar service only. It wasn’t until after I’d asked for a receipt that I saw it had been added and at that point it was too late. I’m not exactly going to ask for a refund of the tip… Edinburgh restaurants really need to stop doing this, nobody wants to bring American tipping culture over here. I’m all for tipping for above and beyond service but at least show me what I’m paying for first!

Safety pin! The atmosphere, the food, the unbeatable service and all in a space with excellent taste, decoration, harmonious cool and with good music. Don't miss the downstairs

Lady Lib is such a cool bar. The downstairs bar is so cool, and makes you think you have entered a Great Gatsby like speakeasy. The drinks are phenomenal and the service is top class. Would highly recommend visiting!

Chill atmosphere, cute decor. Feels more intimate than a lot of the bigger places in the neighborhood.

Generous and flavorful brunch. Friendly service.

Super friendly service in a stylish café with good music a stone's throw from Princess Street. Immediately again.

Nice atmosphere, we went as a group. Table wasn’t ready for the booked time. After that, service was prompt. The dishes were all tasty, but slightly overpriced for the quantity. The cocktail I ordered was extremely strong and the vodka overpowered everything else. A friend got the same cocktail and said the same. It was an enjoyable meal overall in a beautiful setting, but with some improvements it could be better.

Prices ridiculous and cocktails rubbish for the price

Big selection of whiskey. Nice cocktails as well.

The cocktails are inventive and not the typical ones so it's fun to try something new.

A bit noisy downstairs, and the food was OK.

Lady Libertine is my new favorite hidden gem in Edinburgh! Tucked away in a cozy basement, this cocktail bar has an incredible atmosphere with a luxurious design that immediately makes you feel special. The lighting is perfect, adding a warm and inviting glow to the space. The location couldn't be better—right in front of St Andrew Square and super close to the trams, train, and bus stations, making it a breeze to get to. I had two fantastic cocktails made by Pablo, who is an amazing cocktail maker. He was so friendly and approachable, and his drinks were out of this world. The service overall was just splendid. I had such a wonderful time that I can't wait to come back!

Fun, dark, intimate spot with delicious cocktails (recommend the On the Spot!) and appetizers. My husband and I ordered an array of appetizers (highlight was the hummus) with the intention of also ordering a couple mains. However, the appetizer portions were larger than expected (in a good way!), so we were too full to try anything else.

This is not our first time in this place and we consistently like it. Both appetizers and main courses are always delicious. The portions are not small. The cocktails are wonderful. The service is excellent.

Sat at the bar for lunch after getting in to town. We had Louis tending the bar who was a bit shy, but took great care of us. The art and decor is awesome. The drinks were well balanced, I recommend the passion fruit, tequila and mezcal drink. The food was delicious. It was a great experience.

Popped in for a couple of drinks. Great service .

DELICIOUS middle eastern food in town! Food was healthy (except for the fried pitta), well-presented and flavorful. I especially loved their Prawn Saganaki. Crunchy potatoes, fresh de-shelled prawn, and sweet and sour tomato sauce. Plus, the feta cheese adds on the saltiness to the dish. Altogether they tasted perfect. Barbecue Aubergine was so full of herbs and spices. Its fresh and light. Calamari was good because they had minimal crumbs served with chili sauce. Baba Ganoush served with pitta was delicious. Cabbage was creamy and it was served with romesco sauce mixed with peanut and seeds – very healthy. Atmosphere was very calm, fancy and they had good music, but it was too dark to see my food. I had to hold my phone flashlight to see what I am eating lol. Food was served within 15 minutes. Waiter was also very friendly! The food portions and quality were worth the value. Very much recommend if you are looking for a calm, tasty and good price restaurant situated in town!

Restaurant reminiscent of a speakeasy serving drinks and mainly middle eastern foods. Service (5/5) Very prompt service. I was very satisfied! Came to take my order in a good time. Starter came in just a few minutes. Always notices that I’ve finished my dish very quickly. My main course came soon after my starter, and my dessert order was also taken and served very promptly. Food (4.8/5) The food portions were very generous. I was almost full just after my starter (baba ghanoush). For my side of cabbage, I didn’t expect to get half of an entire cabbage! A big side of salad along with my chicken kofta main, too. They all tasted nice. I particularly liked the pita crisps of the baba ghanoush, which was crunchy in just the right way. However, the chicken kofta did not have “crispy chicken skins”, as the menu suggested. I also wished there were more sweeter drinks available! For dessert, I liked my pistachio meringue, though I wish I could have tried their Turkish delights and baklava (which were part of a 2-person dessert). Atmosphere (4.7/5) Nice speakeasy atmosphere. I really liked the fringed lamps. A tad too dim though (the basement restaurant, at least), so it was bit jarring when I had just been under the bright May sun. Definitely more suitable for dinner. The space was clean and spacious, but I do have to deduct points for the bathroom running out of soap. The menu cards could also have been cleaner.

The food was fantastic, as well as the service and ambiance.

Beautiful venue, great staff. However, when it comes to cocktails they are probably one of the worst in Edinburgh for 'ice over substance'. Quite shocking tbh. This is what you get for aprox £10. Something needs to change as its a shame to waste such a good venue.

I didn't get the vibe of friendly, helpful or wanting me to be there. For a £136 bill that's particularly disappointing. I've bad hearing and maybe they took a dislike to me not understanding sentences straight away. I've grown up with Glaswegians and people can be sensitive about that.

Drinks only for us at the basement bar. A few new cocktails to try and a good pint too. Service was very good as it was very busy. Will be back.

Perfect disco bar for having a cocktail after dinner and snacks. The atmosphere is very good, good music and the decoration is interesting. Since there were six of us, they put us in a booth on the top floor from where you could see the entire place.

Amazing cocktails. Service was excellent, cocktails reassuringly expensive… and was not disappointed! Music set the mood perfectly.

Love their coktails! The banana infused negroni, the refreshing gin Silk Road menu and the yoghurt washed cognac. Their food also very good love the gnocchi menu🖤

Don't eat here as there is a rat, I told the waiter but it seemed like they didn't care, I even still got charged for a full glass of wine even though I only had 1 sip of my drink as I seen the rat

Went on Sunday afternoon for a relaxing drink Overpriced Miserable staff Dull atmosphere Some lovely places in Edinburgh with lovely staff but not this one

Excellent food and service at Lady Libertine. I had the Lady Libertine BLT which was phenomenal and the humour mezze which was superb too. Highly recommend

I just finished my meal. I made a reservation just in case, as I was guided by purpose, such as drinking only. We had a wonderful time with a warm welcome and gentlemanly treatment. I went alone and it was very comfortable. I don't usually drink, but the service was so good that I ended up getting another drink. The food was also delicious. We had arancini, gnocchi, and charred hispi. Although it's an Italian dish, I think it has a British flavour. I enjoyed it in a different way. This is my first experience with charred hispi, as we don't have it in Japan, but it tastes like cabbage. The sauce was spicy and appetizing. I'm also glad that they have a menu with less alcohol. It was well thought out and delicious. If you are a Japanese woman, it might be a good idea to order a half-sized main dish and add a few more items. There was enough quantity. Currently, it is expensive due to the pound yen exchange rate, but it is cheap in terms of face value. thank you!

Great service and yummy cocktails.

We went for drinks prior to lunch elsewhere. Staff were really friendly, the atmosphere was really nice and we were able to easily find somewhere nice to sit (a lovely place to be in a great location) with a super drinks offering. High ceiling upstairs means if there is a loud group the loud laughter etc can mean those who have difficulty hearing may struggle a little at times (so you may wish to opt to sit downstairs if this applies to any of your party but this is genuinely a handy hint and by no means a complaint as we'll definitely be back). We had such a lovely time here.

We were in for drinks before heading elsewhere for dinner. I had booked a table, requesting a booth at the window and we got one! They are comfy and you can see what’s going on outside. Our server was lovely and looked after us. The cocktails were delicious and the beer was very good. Definitely one of my favourite places to pop into in the city for a drink. It does get busy so I’d always recommend booking a table.

We loved all here, the food, the service and the astmosphere ! Really good place to eat and to have a drink !! I recommend to everyone :)

My work colleagues and I had a fantastic evening at this venue recently. The downstairs ambiance was dark, modern, and elegant. Despite the bustling atmosphere, our booked table ensured a worry-free experience. The staff were professional, prompt, and pleasant. The well-sized menu offered a good variety, with half featuring small plates and the others larger dishes. We shared a few dishes, finding the majority quite tasty. Personally, I loved the hummus with pita chips and the Baharat spiced ox cheek. The potato roti was a bit underwhelming, but overall, the experience was decent, though slightly on the expensive side. The facility was impeccably clean, with positive comments about the restrooms, except for the lack of hand dryers.

Lovely lunch great service very much enjoyed.

Lady Libertine is a firm favourite in Edinburgh, great place for casual drinks and dinner - honestly don’t know why it doesn’t have a bigger name and reputation. Really relaxed casual vibes for drinks - upstairs is open and airy, downstairs is classy and feels very American speakeasy inspired. Drinks are a real standout - cocktails are excellent and very reasonably priced, the house cocktails are very original and delicious. Food is always excellent too - mix of small and large plates, full of flavour and a must try. Great for just snacks or a full meal. Service always very good too and nothing feels like too much. Will happily keep returning and recommending!

such a good place for a date night. the vibes are so chilled but still put together and nice. the food was UNREAL. i would go back to edinburgh just to eat the food again, i got the calamari to start and the ox cheek for mains. tried one cocktail - that was really nice too. the service was unmatched, we had a lovely waiter, who moved us to a less central and cosier table when it was available which was a nice touch and thoughtful. he was knowledgeable of the menu and helped me out when i couldn’t decide what cocktail to get. he’s such a sweet gent and i really wish i got his name to shout him out!!!

Food was extremely delicious, rich & great value. Drinks were also fantastic with particular credit to the barman who came down with whiskey options and seemed genuinely interested in providing the whiskeys that suited us best. Great atmosphere and overall would go again

Half of the place was empty, took a seat, was scolded that there is a person responsible for showing where to sit, went to the “host”, told us its booked 😂😅 Yeah, try avoid this underground cave.

Waited 15 minutes at table to then go to the bar to be told it's table service. Waiter came over when half the party was at the toilet, asked him to come back in 5, he never appeared. Then half the table went to the bar and were served without issue (presumably because they were attractive young women). Awful service, do not recommend

Our first time visiting and we enjoyed it. The only disappointment was the fact that my husband’s birthday wasn’t acknowledged even though I had mentioned it when I made the booking. A nicer table and a complimentary drink for my husband would have been welcomed, but apart from that we enjoyed it.

Interesting and delicious cocktails. Wide variety including both inventive and old standards. Perfectly executed in a lovely speakeasy atmosphere.

It was absolutely mind-blowing! My husband said it was the best meal he has ever had. Mushroom aranchini is a must to taste! I think we will be returning to Edinburgh just for them. The atmosphere is fabulous. The interior design is one of the best I have ever seen. Well done! The best bar/restaurant in Edinburgh!

Cocktails. Just go here already

We only had drinks. Lovely table kept for us, though a bit late. Very polite and attentive staff. Great atmosphere and experience. Highly recommend.

Wonderful place for some really nice food and drinks. The service was absolutely perfect. We were assisted by Tammy and honestly could not fault this lady. It is very rare to have such great service. Tammy went through and marked the entire lunch menu to let me know which dishes had gluten and which did not, and where the kitchen could make adjustments. It meant I could have a lovely meal with my daughter without worrying and I'd like to say the gluten free choices/amendments were fabulous and it didn't feel a restricted menu. The food was outstanding! So fresh and tasty! We had prawns, hummus, kohlrabi salad, and fries and everything was really beautiful. The deserts were out of this world and again, without gluten had a couple of options. Brownie for the little lady and pistachio meringue for me - everything was beautiful and beautifully presented We had two mocktails which were also delicious. Such a lovely, warm and chilled environment to lunch in. We will definitely be back. Tammy, thank you so much for your assistance to day.

Stopped to rest my feet after pounding the streets all morning. Fast, unfussy service, Buffalo Trace(not the easiest bourbon to get hold of) Old Fashioned was great.

Great service from all the staff other than one of the bartenders (Oscar) who tried hitting on my date while I was at the toilet. She was understandably a bit uncomfortable after that.

We had a lovely evening and enjoyed our food however there were a couple of little niggles. We stood at the bottom of the stairs for longer than we should have waiting for our table, despite there being many staff going back and forth past us, seemingly not seeing us. We booked a table for the Midweek Festive Feast. When we sat down we were told we couldn't have it as you had to specify at the time of booking. However during the booking process I did not see an option to clarify the menu we wanted. In the end it all worked out well and we were granted the deal, but I think communication could be stronger on the website where the deal is promoted and on the booking site where I absolutely did not see an option to select the festive feast option.

We had a fantastic lunch on our visit To Edinburgh! The lunch menu was excellent with lots of a variety of dishes. We had excellent cocktails and food and the staff were very friendly and welcoming! I recommend the BLT 🤤

Always lovely at Lady Libertine. Great atmosphere, staff are so friendly and helpful. Lovely time yesterday- thank you.

Best value for quality food & drink i have experienced over xmas period.Service was firsr class.Overall a great night of delicious delights. We wwill be back.

Cocktails were excellent. We walked by Lady Libertine on Saturday night, and were only looking to pop in somewhere for a drink. Unfortunately they were absolutely fully booked, but we were offered to stand at the basement bar. The atmosphere was amazing. It didn’t take long to be served at the bar despite the amount of people there. And the cocktails were great. Would definitely like to book in to have something to eat and to check out the menu.

Christmas drinks, in the ground floor bar this time. Staff and service fantastic.

Seated at the upstairs room. All excellent until our time was up and we moved to some pews at the bar which seemed to be designed to get rid of you. Thankfully we managed to get a seat at the bar which was much more comfortable and quite entertaining. Some popcorn wld have been a welcome addition to nibble on.

Enjoyed a wonderful martini here, relaxing in one of the basement booths. Cannot wait to be back for several more

Visited many times and always was super happy with food and drinks. This time we only arrived for some cocktails and even though it was a busy weekend for them they accommodated us without any problems. Highly recommended for the best negroni in town!

Great place, great service, great food. We just happened to be passing by and walked in and were pleasantly surprised.

One of the best bars in the city! It's a perfect spot for anyone looking for a great night out, whether you're in the mood for a casual drink with friends or a more sophisticated evening of cocktails and conversation. The atmosphere at Lady Libertine is lovely, with a mix of art deco and industrial style that creates a unique and stylish vibe. It's a beautifully designed space that is both elegant and welcoming, and it's a pleasure to spend time here. The drinks are expertly crafted and properly made, and the staff are incredibly knowledgeable about their drinks. They're always happy to make recommendations based on your tastes or suggest something new and exciting to try.

Recommended to go here and it was a great experience. Upon coming through the door we were met by Jess, she was very informative about the cocktails on offer and took an interest In what our day had been like. She recommended a nice mocktail for my partner which she loved. The building was amazing and had a very art deco hotel feel. Thank you again Jess your hospitality skills were amazing your a credit to lady libertines.

Lovely drinks and great atmosphere. I messed up our table reservation however staff managed to find us a table despite it being peak time. Thank you to Callum for your help!

Great cocktail bar in the basement! Nice vibe. Cocktails could be a bit stronger though.

Such a lovely ambiance and the cocktail menu, though small, had some very interesting mixes. I loved the Silk Road with the specially crafted giant ice block.

We have visited on several occasions for drinks and have always enjoyed the ambience and the impeccable service. The service was just as good on our most recent visit on 7 November but the music playing did not suit Lady Libertine’s at all. Rap music! Couldn’t wait to quaff our drinks and make a hasty exit.

Fabulous ambience, distinct NYC vibe and excellent service

Bar that's very foo foo. They were nice enough but obviously prefer a more posh group than us. Pints were 6.50 each, bar gin 4.50, pop 3.50, whiskey cocktail 10. Nicely decorated but not much atmosphere. Been there, done that. There are better city centre pubs.

Good ambience just off St Andrews Square. Worth stopping by

I am absolutely blown away by the service here. As someone who runs restaurants, I am very hard to please and my oh my did Lady Libertine impress. After 5 restaurants/bars visited for a friends birthday, all booked with birthday messages and the birthday girl in a birthday sash, no one acknowledged it with even a happy birthday. Lady libertine we walked into Sunday evening late with no booking. They not only opened the snug room for us (an amazing cosy relaxed room!) then the I believe manager (blonde guy) brought out a round of Prosecco complimentary from him! Absolutely incredible. The service from the team was top notch. The signature cocktails were amazing. I love Lady Libertine but this experience has cemented as my new Edinburgh must go to! Very well done Lady Libertine.

Thank you for making my birthday special. We came in for a drink to finish our day out and you made us very welcome even though we hadn’t booked. You say us at a lovely table and then brought us all a glass of fizz for my birthday. All the staff were lovely as were our cocktails!

The best cocktails, delicious food and fab service! Thanks LL we had a fab night and will be back, loved it 💙

Visited here for drinks before dinner. Friendly staff advised us to go downstairs for drinks. Lovely atmosphere, candle lit tables, excellent quick service, nice music, tasty cocktails. Really enjoyed the atmosphere and friendly staff.

Enjoyed an early dinner here with my spouse. Cocktails were great unique smooth though small portions. Food was good shawarma and baked cauliflower with big portions. Cauliflower is good option for vegan. Long flight of stairs in / out— didn’t see an elevator.

Was here last night with my girlfriend and a friend. I came later but the two of them ate and I was told the food was absolutely divine! We racked up quite a bill in the end but it was all totally worth it!! The staff where very accommodating and personable especially Steffi and Bobby whom kept on checking in to see if we needed anything. A very pleasant and relaxing evening. We will all be back!!!!

Great service from Bobby. Great guy 👌🏼

What a lovely venue! Spotless, staff were very friendly, and the food and wine were excellent, thank you Edinburgh.

Gorgeous cocktails, relaxed atmosphere but service was rather chilly.

Reservations for dinner are needed. Was allowed downstairs to a bigger bar area. Beautiful ambiance!! Great drinks!! Well worth the stop.

Incredible location and the food is first class. The only thing that impacted our enjoyment is the noise levels. This wouldn't be a problem at all for a smaller group of up to 4 people but for larger groups, it is impossible to hear conversations from one end of the table to the other! It absolutely adds to the atmosphere but don't expect intimate conversation

The service staff who took care of me this evening (Skye and Keri) we’re both lovely and provided excellent service and cocktails were great!

Great! gentle ambience, perfectly executed cocktails. Perfect pre-dinner venue. Try the Manhattan.

We had a lovely brunch with family and friends on Sunday. The service was amazing and the food was a an absolute delight! The cocktails were also delicious 😋 Nothing was a problem and it was an absolute pleasure to experience your gorgeous restaurant. Thankyou .

Nice little lunch spot. Wonderful service. Good food, nice and fresh with vibrant flavours. Probably just needed to warm the sourdough, but aside from that worth the visit.

More than meets the eye, with an amazing and very boujee cocktail bar hidden downstairs. Very knowledgeable staff and a great backbar... Take my money!

Cocktails were nice but service was terrible, it wasn't busy but we had to wait a while for everything. Even had to go looking for someone to pay our bill. Could see other customers becoming a bit annoyed too.