João’s Place Returns with a Bold New Look and Liberdade‑Inspired Menu

João’s Place, the discreet speakeasy perched on the 11th floor of W Edinburgh, has relaunched with a striking redesign and an expanded culinary offering, reaffirming its status as one of the city’s most coveted rooftop destinations. Hidden behind a gold door and known for its intimate atmosphere, the bar now unveils a refreshed and expanded space that blends understated glamour with the effortless hospitality.

The relaunch follows a year of acclaim, with João’s Place earning Cocktail Bar of the Year 2025 at the Scottish Hotel Awards and securing a place on Condé Nast Traveller’s list of Edinburgh’s best bars. The updated layout introduces additional dining space allowing guests to transition seamlessly from early‑evening cocktails to late‑night indulgence.

At the heart of the evolution is a new menu inspired by Liberdade, the Japanese‑Brazilian neighbourhood of São Paulo. The cocktail list showcases rare and exceptional spirits, including Yamazaki 18, Hakushu 18 Peated Malt and Highland Park 30, alongside celebratory pours such as Laurent‑Perrier Grand Siècle Edition #26. Signature serves lean into the bar’s cross‑cultural sensibility, from the layered richness of Evening at Liberdade to the bold, zesty Margarita Piquant.

Complementing the drinks is an elevated selection of small plates designed for sharing. Highlights include whisky‑cured salmon sushi, wagyu empanadas with sweet ají panca, and a luxurious California roll featuring Cornish brown crab and truffle oil.

With panoramic views stretching across Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat and the Firth of Forth, João’s Place remains one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric rooftop venues.

Its weekly Sounds of João’s acoustic sessions continue every Sunday, offering a relaxed yet refined soundtrack to the city’s most exclusive hideaway.

Bookings are now open Wednesday to Sunday at joaosplace.com.