Scottish bar named as one of 50 best in the world

Iain McPherson first opened the speakeasy-style doors to Panda & Sons on Queen Street in 2013, following a formative stint in the city’s famous Voodoo Rooms.

Identifying a gap in the market for speciality drinks which went far beyond the cookie-cutter cocktail menus on offer at the time, he and his team set about curating a theatrical flair and off-the-wall methods.

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The Herald previously reported that McPherson had been named ‘Bartenders’ Bartender’ by Altos ahead of the final ceremony in Madrid, Spain.

This prestigious award is voted for by the bartenders on this year’s list of The World’s 50 Best Bars, who are asked to name one peer who pushes the limits of what it means to be a great bartender.

Read more: The award-winning bartender keeping Scotland’s innovative spirit strong

He said: “I am overwhelmingly full of gratitude to be named this year’s Altos Bartenders’ Bartender.

“How meaningful it is to be nominated by the people that I look up to and admire daily, a true honour.

“Awards, especially one like this, are never truly an ‘individual’ effort but a reflective accolade of the creative, collaborative, driven and passionate team at Panda & Sons.

“They continuously inspire me and together we have pushed boundaries, creating magic for all. 

“It’s always a huge honour to be representing bonnie wee Scotland on the international bartending stage and I believe this award also shines a light on what an amazing bar scene we have in Edinburgh.”

Taking home the overall top spot for this year’s 50 Best Bars was Handshake Speakeasy in New Mexico, followed by Bar Leone in Hong Kong and Sips in Barcelona.

Emma Sleight, head of content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, said: “ We want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every bar on this year’s list, which once again highlights the incredible diversity of the global bar sector.

“We hope that this year’s list continues to operate as a beacon for cocktail lovers the world over.”

You can find the World’s 50 Best Bar rankings in full here.

Panda & Sons is located at 79 Queen Street in Edinburgh.

For more information visit pandaandsons.com.