- Apr 26, 2023
- 8 min read

Where to Eat in Edinburgh Scotland

Location: Scotland

Great for: Singles, Couples, Families, Groups, Elopements, and Honeymoons

view of a street in Edinburgh Scotland — Edinburgh Scotland

Edinburgh has a vibrant food scene with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to all tastes and budgets. The city is known for its fresh seafood, traditional Scottish cuisine, as well as modern fusion dishes.

Popular traditional dishes to try while in Scotland include haggis (sheep heart, liver, and lungs), neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes, usually mashed), Cullen skink (a creamy smoked haddock soup), and Scotch pies (a savory pastry filled with minced meat).

In addition to traditional Scottish cuisine, you will also find international cuisine, including Italian, French, Indian, Chinese, and Japanese. The city also has numerous food festivals throughout the year, such as the Edinburgh Food Festival and the Edinburgh International Food Festival.

Romantic Restaurants

These restaurants offer a range of options for couples looking for a romantic dining experience in Edinburgh, from historic and luxurious to modern and scenic. Prices vary depending on the restaurant and menu selection, but all offer an intimate and memorable experience for couples.

The Witchery by the Castle - This historic 16th-century restaurant is located near Edinburgh Castle and offers a luxurious dining experience in a Gothic-style setting. Prices range from £35 for lunch to £85 for a three-course dinner, and up to £150 for a six-course tasting menu. The restaurant's candlelit ambiance, intimate seating, and Scottish cuisine make it a popular choice for romantic dinners.
Angels with Bagpipes - This restaurant is located on the Royal Mile and serves modern Scottish cuisine in a charming atmosphere. Prices range from £12 for lunch to £45 for a three-course dinner, and up to £65 for a six-course tasting menu. The restaurant's warm lighting, exposed brick walls, and romantic setting make it a perfect choice for couples looking for a romantic evening out.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage - This restaurant is located on Calton Hill and offers panoramic views of Edinburgh's skyline. Prices range from £30 for lunch to £80 for a four-course dinner, and up to £115 for a seven-course tasting menu. The restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows, minimalist decor, and breathtaking views create a romantic atmosphere for couples looking for a unique dining experience.
The Stockbridge Restaurant - This restaurant is located in the heart of Stockbridge and serves contemporary Scottish cuisine. Prices range from £30 for a two-course lunch to £55 for a five-course dinner. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere, open kitchen, and attentive service make it a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic evening out.
The Tower - This restaurant is located on the top floor of the Museum of Scotland and offers stunning views of Edinburgh's Old Town. Prices range from £22 for a two-course lunch to £45 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's modern Scottish cuisine, romantic setting, and panoramic views make it a popular choice for couples looking for a unique dining experience.

Looking up at Edinburgh Castle in Scotland — Edinburgh Castle in Scotland

Restaurants with a View

Add these restaurants for stunning views of Edinburgh's skyline and historic sites, making them a special place to enjoy a meal. Prices vary depending on the restaurant and menu selection, but all offer a unique and memorable dining experience with views to remember.

Forth Floor Restaurant - This restaurant is located on the fourth floor of the Harvey Nichols department store, offering views of Edinburgh's skyline. Prices range from £20 for lunch to £40 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features modern Scottish cuisine, with dishes like Highland venison and Isle of Mull cheese. The restaurant's sleek decor and views make it a special place for a meal.
Kyloe Restaurant & Grill - This restaurant is located in the West End of Edinburgh and offers views of Edinburgh Castle. Prices range from £20 for lunch to £50 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features Scottish beef and other meat dishes, with options like Scotch ribeye and pork belly. The restaurant's rustic decor and views make it a special place for a meat-lover's meal.

Baked potatoes on a tray — Baked Potatoes

Unique, Unusual, Fun

These restaurants offer a range of unique and unusual dining experiences in Edinburgh, from herb gardens and exotic meats to creative twists on classic dishes and casual street food-style fare.

The Secret Herb Garden - This unique restaurant is located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, surrounded by herb gardens and greenhouses. Prices range from £5 for light bites to £16 for a full meal. The restaurant's menu features fresh ingredients grown on-site and includes unique dishes like herb-infused cocktails and botanical desserts.
The Outsider - This unusual restaurant is located on George IV Bridge and offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Prices range from £10 for lunch to £30 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features a mix of Scottish and international cuisine, including unusual dishes like kangaroo and ostrich.
The Last Word Saloon - This quirky restaurant and cocktail bar is located in the city's Southside and offers a unique dining experience. Prices range from £5 for bar snacks to £15 for a full meal. The restaurant's menu features creative twists on classic dishes, like truffled mac and cheese and brie and cranberry toasties.
Ting Thai Caravan - This unusual restaurant is located on Teviot Place and offers a taste of Thailand in Edinburgh. Prices range from £4 for street food-style dishes to £9 for a full meal. The restaurant's menu features authentic Thai dishes like pad thai and green curry, served in a casual and bustling atmosphere.
The Baked Potato Shop - This iconic Edinburgh restaurant is located on Cockburn Street and offers a unique take on a classic dish. Prices range from £2 for a plain baked potato to £5 for a fully loaded one. The restaurant's menu features a variety of toppings, including haggis, cheese, and curry, served in a simple and casual setting.

Fish and Chips with lemon and cole slaw — Fish and Chips

Traditional Meal

If traditional is what you are looking for stop by these restaurants. They offer a range of traditional Scottish dining experiences from classic Scottish dishes like haggis and Cullen skink to cozy and welcoming interiors with tartan carpets and wooden furnishings. Prices vary depending on the restaurant and menu selection, but all offer an authentic taste of Scottish cuisine and culture.

The Doric - This traditional Scottish restaurant is located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Prices range from £15 for lunch to £25 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features classic Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink, and steak pie. The restaurant's decor, including tartan carpets and wooden furnishings, creates an authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Royal McGregor - This traditional Scottish restaurant is located on Hanover Street and offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Prices range from £15 for lunch to £25 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features classic Scottish dishes like Cullen skink, haggis, neeps, and tatties, and slow-cooked venison stew. The restaurant's walls are adorned with Scottish memorabilia and paintings, adding to its traditional charm.
Stac Polly - This traditional Scottish restaurant has two locations in Edinburgh, one in New Town and one in Stockbridge. Prices range from £10 for lunch to £25 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features classic Scottish dishes like Cullen skink, smoked salmon, and haggis, as well as a selection of game meats like pheasant and venison. The restaurant's decor, including exposed brick walls and wooden furnishings, creates a cozy and traditional atmosphere.
Howies - This traditional Scottish restaurant has two locations in Edinburgh, one on Waterloo Place and one on Victoria Street. Prices range from £15 for lunch to £25 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features classic Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink, and slow-cooked beef stew. The restaurant's decor, including stone walls and tartan upholstery, creates an authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Sheep Heid Inn - This traditional Scottish restaurant is located in the suburb of Duddingston, just outside of Edinburgh's city center. Prices range from £10 for lunch to £25 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features classic Scottish dishes like Cullen skink, haggis, neeps, and tatties, and traditional fish and chips. The restaurant's interior features wooden beams and a roaring fire, creating a cozy and traditional atmosphere.

Restaurants with Awards and Recognition

Here are several highly acclaimed restaurants in the city that have received other prestigious awards and recognition. They offer a range of exceptional dining experiences with innovative Scottish cuisine, fresh local ingredients, and unique settings. All offer a memorable dining experience that showcases the best of Scottish cuisine.

The Kitchin - This restaurant has held a Michelin star since 2007, but it was not awarded one in the 2021 guide. It is located in Leith and serves modern Scottish cuisine. Prices range from £38 for lunch to £105 for a tasting menu. The restaurant's menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients, and highlights the best of Scottish produce. The Kitchin is also known for its exceptional wine selection.
Number One - Located in the five-star Balmoral Hotel, Number One has four AA Rosettes and is considered one of Scotland's top restaurants. Prices range from £45 for lunch to £110 for a tasting menu. The restaurant's menu features innovative Scottish cuisine, using local, seasonal ingredients to create unique and memorable dishes.
21212 - This restaurant has one Michelin star and is located in a Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh's city center. Prices range from £55 for lunch to £115 for a tasting menu. The restaurant's menu features contemporary Scottish cuisine with a French twist, and the tasting menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal produce.
The Scran & Scallie - This gastropub has been awarded a Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide and is located in Stockbridge. Prices range from £8 for lunch to £30 for a three-course dinner. The restaurant's menu features traditional Scottish dishes with a modern twist, using local ingredients and showcasing the best of Scottish cuisine.
The Gardener's Cottage - This restaurant has been awarded a Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide and is located in a historic cottage in the Royal Terrace Gardens. Prices range from £30 for lunch to £75 for a tasting menu. The restaurant's menu features seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and offers a unique and intimate dining experience.

Budget Friendly

If you are looking to spend your hard-earned money elsewhere while on vacation, here are some budget-friendly restaurants to try in Edinburgh that will help you do just that!

Mosque Kitchen - This restaurant is located near Edinburgh University and offers authentic Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine at affordable prices. Prices range from £4-£8 for a main course. The restaurant's communal seating and casual atmosphere make it a popular spot for students and locals alike.
Ting Thai Caravan - This restaurant is located in Old Town and serves Thai street food at affordable prices. Prices range from £5-£10 for a main course. The restaurant's vibrant decor and communal seating create a lively and social atmosphere.
Oink - This restaurant is located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town and serves slow-roasted pork sandwiches at affordable prices. Prices range from £3-£6 for a sandwich. The restaurant's simple menu and casual atmosphere make it a popular spot for a quick and tasty bite.
Illegal Jack's - This restaurant is located in the Southside of Edinburgh and serves Tex-Mex cuisine at affordable prices. Prices range from £5-£10 for a main course. The restaurant's lively atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a popular spot for a casual meal with friends.
Red Box Noodle Bar - This restaurant is located in the New Town and serves Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine at affordable prices. Prices range from £6-£9 for a main course. The restaurant's colorful decor and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for a quick and affordable meal.

Next time you are in Edinburgh, Scotland, try a few of these restaurants and savor the delights available to you in this historic and vibrant city.

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