Tonic

Tucked away in an alley just off George Street, Tonic may not be a new discovery to many. Embracing the clubby atmosphere of its Georgian neighbours, the establishment is both upbeat and lively, while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. This may be partly due to its restrictive size; Tonic comprises a single comparatively small room which ensures all of its patrons are soon rubbing shoulders. The intimacy works however, and through the ether of generic cocktail bar ambience it is possible to detect an air of friendliness commonly omitted from many drinking dens of its type.

The staff help accentuate this mood. The impressive array of interesting and delectable cocktails on offer can baffle, but the experienced and patient bar staff are more than capable of indulging the indecisive, with suggestions on what would best suit each individual taste. Concoctions are prepared with all the bottle-based acrobatics and flair that have become customary when preparing a cocktail, which prove an entertaining five-minutes.

Tonic's greatest flaw is its lack of individuality. It claims the title of 'Edinburgh’s original cocktail bar' but it has done little to preserve its distinctiveness (aside from an ill-placed television screen airing the BBC News at midnight), leaving it in the dust when compared to the nearby competition.

Altogether, Tonic is little more than just another of Edinburgh’s many cocktail bars. It is neither disappointing nor outstanding; forgettable nor noteworthy; overpriced nor cheap. Tonic is as inoffensive as they come, and does well by such a reputation. The sociable mood does it credit, and one could certainly choose a worse watering-hole to patronise. If all you seek is a decent drink and a convivial evening, Tonic definitely bears investigating, but it has no unique flair.