Edinburgh bar named in best worldwide list for 2026
A hotel bar in Edinburgh has been named in a prestigious travel list.
Bar Prince, located within The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel, has been named in the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide 2026 Hotel Star Bars List, earning recognition as one of just 37 hotel bars worldwide to receive the honour.
Compiled by Forbes Travel Guide, the annual list celebrates bars that excel in beverage quality, service, atmosphere and guest experience. Selected through FTG’s anonymous inspections for its 2026 Star Ratings, this year’s honourees span 16 countries.
The listing reads: “The Edinburgh bar’s Connected Icons menu finds muses among the people and places that shaped the hotel’s history. The Proud Scotsman draws inspiration from Sean Connery, who cut the ribbon during The Balmoral’s 1991 reopening. Crafted with Aberfeldy 16, Sweetdram Amaro, Drambuie, walnut bitters and lemon oil, the smooth and complex cocktail reflects the original James Bond’s timeless appeal.”
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Located in the city centre of Edinburgh, Bar Prince is known for its elegant yet welcoming atmosphere and its Connected Icons cocktail menu, inspired by The Balmoral’s heritage, notable guests and iconic surroundings. The drinks offering is complemented by bar bites from Brasserie Prince.
Giovanni Cassino, bar manager at Bar Prince, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised by Forbes Travel Guide as one of the world’s Hotel Star Bars for 2026. This award reflects the passion, creativity and dedication of our entire team, who strive every day to create memorable experiences for our guests.
“From our Connected Icons cocktail collection to the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines Bar Prince, we are honoured to see our commitment to hospitality celebrated on a global stage.”
Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, added: “The 2026 Hotel Star Bars reflect how today’s most exceptional hotel bars enrich the overall guest experience.
“From distinctive beverage programmes to thoughtful service and atmosphere, these enclaves within beautiful hotels create moments that extend far beyond the glass and leave lasting impressions and memories.”
There was only one other Scottish bar on the hotel bar list, also in Edinburgh. The Wallace at 100 Princes Street was named with their listing calling it an "exclusive bar.” It reads: “The exclusive Edinburgh bar is only open to guests of the 29-room hotel. The intimacy makes for great tastings with the whisky ambassador, who can help navigate the more than 250-bottle collection. Those craving a cocktail should try the bold Islay Old Fashioned made with Bowmore 15, salted caramel syrup and chocolate bitters for a smoky-sweet finish.”
To view the full list of 2026 Hotel Star Bars winners, visit Forbes Travel Guide Hotel Star Bars List, and to book your next visit to Bar Prince and The Balmoral visit their website.
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