Scottish bartender named best in the world at 'cocktail Oscars'
Iain McPherson, owner and founder of Panda & Sons, the multi-award-winning speakeasy bar in Edinburgh, was named number one on Drinks International's Bar World 100 list, officially recognising him as the world's most influential bar professional.
Panda & Sons also made history at this year's Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in New Orleans, securing three major accolades in a single night, the first time a European bar has ever achieved this extraordinary feat.
Often dubbed the 'Oscars of the cocktail world' the Spirited Awards are the industry's most prestigious global celebration of excellence in bartending and hospitality.
Panda & Sons walked away with three top honours - World's Best Cocktail Menu, Best International Bar Team, and International Bar Mentor of the Year for founder Iain McPherson - reaffirming its place as one of the most innovative and respected cocktail bars on the planet.
Iain McPherson and team at the awards in New Orleans
The bar's groundbreaking win marks the first time Scotland has brought home a Spirited Award since 2014, putting the nation firmly on the global cocktail map and proving its bars can compete with the very best.
This year's triple win places Panda & Sons in rarefied air, earning them headlines across the drinks industry and beyond.
As reported in The Spirits Business, the judges highlighted the bar's 'visionary approach to hospitality, unparalleled creativity, and global influence.' Time Out hailed Panda & Sons as 'a trailblazing force that continues to put Edinburgh firmly on the world cocktail map.'
It caps off a defining year for Panda & Sons and its visionary founder, Iain McPherson.
Earlier in 2025, the team picked up top honours at the CLASS Bar Awards, reinforcing their position at the forefront of the UK bar scene.
'We are absolutely overwhelmed," said Iain McPherson. 'To represent Scotland and Europe on the world stage and bring home three Spirited Awards in one night is a dream come true.
'It's a reflection of our team's dedication, creativity, and love for what we do.'
Picture: Panda and Sons
This incredible achievement is a testament to the unwavering passion, commitment, and relentless hard work of the entire Panda & Sons team.
From the earliest days, founder Iain McPherson's vision has been to elevate the craft of bartending to the same level of respect and recognition as the culinary world, a philosophy that continues to shape every detail of the guest experience.
Backed by an exceptional leadership team, including Nicky Craig and Sean Moggach and a bar team known for their creativity, precision, and warmth, the group has poured their hearts into every service, menu, and idea.
These awards are not just accolades, they are a recognition of years of love, labour, and a shared belief in pushing the boundaries of what a cocktail bar can be.
With this groundbreaking achievement, Panda & Sons has solidified its legacy not just in the UK but globally. As the international spotlight turns to Edinburgh, Panda & Sons is proudly leading the charge into a new era of cocktail excellence.
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