Edinburgh shakes up July with the city’s first Daiquiri Dash — and Bite’s Verdict is in

Edinburgh’s cocktail scene has a new summer initiative as Signature Group launches the city’s first Daiquiri Dash, a month‑long celebration of rum, creativity and customer‑led ideas. Running 1–31 July, the Dash brings together five standout bars across the capital in partnership with Angostura Rum, each serving its own £10 signature daiquiri to mark National Daiquiri Day on 19 July.

The concept comes from Emma Hazzard, a cocktail lover and marathon runner from East Lothian, who was inspired after completing Signature’s Margarita Mile earlier this year. She pitched a daiquiri‑themed trail for summer — and Signature Group didn’t just say yes, they handed her the reins. Emma selected her five favourite bars to feature: Cold Town House, Copper Blossom, The Boozy Cow, Element, and The Basement.

Each venue has created a bespoke daiquiri and Mrs Bite’s companion Liz noted how each cocktail reflected the personality of its venue, from Cold Town House’s sunny rooftop ambience to Copper Blossom's floral finesse.

Two cocktails stood out as clear favourites for us: The Basement’s Godfather Part II, a perfectly balanced, silky banana concoction that paired beautifully with spicy Mexican dishes; and The Boozy Cow’s Peaches ’n’ Cream, a surprise hit. With its dive‑bar energy and sophisticated‑but‑unpretentious take on an ice‑cream soda, it delivered fun and taste.

Staff across all five venues deserve praise too. Every stop offered the same efficient, super‑friendly service we’ve come to expect from Nic Wood's Signature Group — a reminder that great hospitality is as essential as great cocktails.

If we were to offer two small critiques, Cold Town House’s serve leaned a little syrupy for our tastes — though the food was outstanding (10/10 for my mortadella, burrata, pistachio, pecan pesto and rocket ciabatta — a steal at £12.50). Element’s Yuzu‑Lychee Blossom was slightly heavy on the yuzu; the balance was a touch off, but the presentation was absolutely stunning.

With lively venues, creative cocktails and a playful Strava challenge, the Daiquiri Dash gives Edinburgh a fresh, way to sip, stroll and celebrate summer.