Edinburgh's original cocktail bar, Rick's, has reclaimed the title of Scotland's most stylish drinking destination after an extensive refurbishment.

Rick's opened in 2000 and quickly established itself as the fore-runner of the capital's sophisticated style bar scene, serving drinks to a host famous names including Hollywood star James McAvoy, supermodel Kate Moss and Prince William.

Located over three floors in Edinburgh's historic Frederick Street, Rick's has undergone an £150,000 revamp and unveiled its new look to the public in time for The Edinburgh Festival.

David Johnston, Development Director with Montpeliers (Edinburgh), who operate an eight-strong portfolio of award-winning hotels, bars and restaurants, said the new Rick's aims to offer affordable luxury combined with an unforgettable experience.

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He said: "Rick's is back – but in truth we never went away. Rick's has more than stood the test of time but with our refurbishment, we want people to rediscover the style and service that earned us our reputation as the original cocktail bar."

Amongst the exciting changes – not least an interior design inspired by 1950's Madrid and Cuba (which ties in with Rick's having the greatest number of specialist rums in Edinburgh) – is the launch of a stunning range of new and traditional cocktails.

Another key feature is the new Cabinet Room – an exclusive space for private dining and events with your own dedicated mixologist and waiting staff.

Rick’s will also continue to offer a range of 10 individually-designed bedrooms in its boutique hotel, named as one of the world's top 25 coolest hotels by Conde Nast Traveller.

A design team – lead by independent Edinburgh-based interior designer Joelle Reid - spent nine months researching ideas, fabrics and finishes from around the world to conceive the entire look and feel of the new-look Rick's.

Working alongside David Johnston, Joelle created an exciting fresh new look for Rick's, using a palate of slate grey, pistachio green, brown and cream and incorporating the original architectural features of the historic building and unique glass-roofed court yard.

Joelle said: "Rick's has been designed to grow better with age, like many of the vintage drinks that will be on display in the newly designed cabinet room. It is certainly not a fashion bar that will be old hat in a few months, it is classic design and will retain this essence for many years."

(GK/KMcA)