The Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh is a unique and enchanting establishment that brings the world of magic and wizardry to life. Located in the heart of the historic Old Town, this tavern provides a whimsical experience for visitors of all ages. Upon entering the Magic Potions Tavern, guests are immediately transported into a magical world. The interior is adorned with mystical artifacts, potion bottles, and spell books, creating an atmosphere that is both captivating and mysterious. The staff, dressed in wizard robes, add to the ambiance, guiding visitors through the tavern and sharing their knowledge of potions and magic. One of the highlights of the Magic Potions Tavern is the extensive range of magical concoctions available.
The venue reminded me of the Leaky cauldron with its long fireplace, scattered tables and miss-matched chairs. Décor was quite minimal, but the wizard theme was obvious, with ivy covered walls, dusty cabinets filled with mysterious looking artefacts, broomsticks, cauldrons, and lots of photo frames and cobwebs. There were even a few Harry Potter books dotted about in case you hadn’t realised the experience was inspired by the boy wizard.
And whilst I rarely leave a stone left unturned in the geeky activities department, a few things will occasionally slip under my radar The Magic Potions Tavern being one of them. If you wanted to visit the Potions Tavern and enjoy some of these magical cocktails with your friends, it s highly advised to prebook your visit as it s really popular.
One of the highlights of the Magic Potions Tavern is the extensive range of magical concoctions available. From potions that grant temporary invisibility to ones that can heal ailments, the menu offers a variety of options to suit every wizard and witch's needs. Each potion is meticulously crafted by the skilled bartenders, who combine a mix of secret ingredients and incantations to create the desired effects.
The Magic Potions Tavern | Brewing Cocktails in Edinburgh’s Old Town
I like to think of myself as a some sort of magical travel genie when it comes to planning trips away because I somehow manage to find the craziest things, no matter where we go. And whilst I rarely leave a stone left unturned in the geeky activities department, a few things will occasionally slip under my radar – The Magic Potions Tavern being one of them.
Department of Magic is a relatively new company in Edinburgh who are the owners of two Harry Potter inspired Escape Rooms, as well as the Magic Potions Tavern – a wizard-themed cocktail bar, where you can brew your own potions. I’ve had a go at brewing potions before at The Cauldron in London, and whilst it was a lot of fun – you get to run around in robes whilst stirring drinks with the wave of a wand – the experience was slightly marred by the incredibly long wait times, and how ridiculously overpriced it was.
Even so, I was actually considering visiting their Edinburgh branch – because Harry Potter – until I was made aware of the Department of Magic, who were offering virtually the same thing at less than a quarter of the price, so it was ‘Goodbye Cauldron and Hello Potions Tavern – please don’t be shite!’
And shite it was not.
After having a little trouble booking a reservation – you can’t book a slot in house, so have to do it over the phone, but not on Sunday’s, even though the venue is open? – Me, Jess, and his parents; Anita and Geoff, descended to the basement bar down Blair Street, just off the Royal Mile, and got our pick of the room. We opted for a corner booth because of its board game strewn table and comfy looking chairs.
The venue reminded me of the Leaky cauldron with its long fireplace, scattered tables and miss-matched chairs. Décor was quite minimal, but the wizard theme was obvious, with ivy covered walls, dusty cabinets filled with mysterious looking artefacts, broomsticks, cauldrons, and lots of photo frames and cobwebs. There were even a few Harry Potter books dotted about in case you hadn’t realised the experience was inspired by the boy wizard.
We were each given menus and asked to pick a cocktail, and with four to chose from it wasn’t an easy decision. They were all Harry Potter themed and inspired by different lessons in the book, so you had Herbology 101 to test your green thumbs, The Dark Lord which promised blood and brains, Potion No. 9 for a colour changing treat, and Liquid Gold for.. liquid gold.
They were also centred around different spirits, so I opted for Potion No. 9 because it was gin based, Anita went for Herbology 101, and both Jess and Geoff chose the rather ominous sounding Dark Lord because it was meant to be the strongest.
In the meantime we were brought out a little chest filled with shots and dry ice whilst we waited for our potion ingredients. I don’t remember exactly what they were, but we chose one of each, ranging from the ridiculously strong, to one that just tasted like baileys. It was fun opening the chest to reveal the little drinks as smoke rolled onto the table.
The cocktails came out on trays with a set of very detailed instructions, and every single ingredient was in its own little container, so it really did feel like you were in a potions lesson. The boys drinks came first with four different coloured liquids, a glass skull, and what looked like a shrivelled eyeball – though I’ve since been informed it was a peeled plum.
Anita’s, which was my favourite, came with its own adorable plant pot to mix everything in, stoppered vials and a pestle and mortar for grinding up raspberries. It was definitely the most hands on out of the three – she really had to put a bit of wellie into it.
My cocktail came out already bubbling with a tiny jar of fairy dust and three colourless bottles. Each one changed the colour of the cocktail as you added them to the glass until it became this iridescent purple, it was really quite magical. It tasted great too, which is unusual for something so theatrical.
We were told the session would last about half an hour, but we ended up spending around 2 hours in there all together – it was a great way to break up a long day exploring Edinburgh, especially since it was so close to all of the main attractions.
It’s definitely a must for any Harry Potter fans visiting the city, and if you can tie it in with a Potter inspired tour, that’s even better. But you know what, if you’re not a fan of the books, you’d still get a kick out of this because it’s so different and hands on that it would be hard not to enjoy yourself, and at only £6 a ticket if you grab one through Groupon, it would be rude not to check it out.
Address | Magic Potions Tavern, 9 Blair Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QR
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In addition to the potions, the Magic Potions Tavern also offers a selection of magical cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. With names like "The Draught of Dreamers" and "The Elixir of Enchantment," these drinks are not only visually stunning but also taste delicious, with unique flavors and combinations that are sure to delight the palate. To enhance the magical experience, the Magic Potions Tavern offers interactive classes and workshops where visitors can learn the art of potion-making and spell-casting. Participants get a chance to create their own potions under the guidance of experienced wizards, picking up valuable tips and tricks along the way. These sessions provide a hands-on learning experience that leaves participants feeling empowered and excited about the world of magic. Overall, the Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for all things magical. Whether you're a fan of Harry Potter or simply intrigued by the world of potions and spells, this tavern offers a unique and immersive experience that is sure to leave you spellbound. So grab your wand and get ready to embark on a magical journey at the Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh..
Reviews for "The Magic Potions Tavern: A Hidden Gem in Edinburgh's Nightlife Scene"
1. Jennifer - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with my experience at Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh. The whole concept of the place seemed really interesting, but the execution fell flat. The drinks were overpriced and didn't live up to their magical names or descriptions. The service was also incredibly slow, and it seemed like the staff was more interested in posing for photos with customers than actually attending to their needs. Overall, it felt like a gimmicky tourist trap rather than an authentic magical experience.
2. David - 1 star
I cannot express how utterly disappointed I was with Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh. I had heard so much hype about this place, but it was a complete letdown. The atmosphere was chaotic and overcrowded, making it difficult to enjoy the supposed magic. The staff seemed overwhelmed and disinterested, and it took forever to get any attention to place an order. When the drinks finally arrived, they tasted mediocre at best and definitely did not justify the high prices. Save your money and go somewhere else for a real magical experience.
3. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high expectations for Magic Potions Tavern in Edinburgh, but unfortunately, it did not meet them. The place was way too overcrowded, with people pushing and shoving to get a spot at the bar. The drinks were overly sugary and lacked any real creativity. Additionally, the staff seemed overwhelmed and unorganized, resulting in slow service and frustrated customers. I would not recommend this place if you're looking for an authentic magical experience. There are plenty of other places in Edinburgh that offer a better atmosphere and better drinks.