Scotland’s endless local and sustainable ingredients make for an exciting restaurant scene. These 20 best restaurants in Edinburgh are exactly that. They’re the kind of restaurants that are embracing what is native to the region and plating it in an exciting way.
When I was in Edinburgh, it was the food scene that caught my attention. Beautiful spaces fitted with unique design and special touches created a restaurant that equally stunning as tasty. As the city is easily walkable, it makes for a great early evening experience to grab a drink at sunset and then make your way to the restaurant. Here’s a look at the Edinburgh restaurants I loved and a few I am saving for next time!
20 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh
1. Fhior
The gem of the city right now is Fhior. This intimate, NOMA-like restaurant features beautiful dishes and well-sourced ingredients in a speical setting.
Address: 36 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SB, UK
2. TIMBERYARD
One of my favorite meals in the city was a long lunch in this former warehouse on a side street. Bright and colorful plating pairs well with interesting combinations of Scotland’s finest ingredients. *The kind of place to travel for.
Address: 10 Lady Lawson St, Edinburgh EH3 9DS, UK
3. Edinburgh Food Studio
A combination of guest chefs and quality restaurants puts this concept restaurant as a bucket list dining experience in Edinburgh. Come here for their evolving menu that is is a 7-course set menu.
Address: 158 Dalkeith Rd, Edinburgh EH16 5DX, UK
4. The Gardener’s Cottage
One of the more enchanting settings, come here for a weekend lunch.
Address: Royal Terrace Gardens, 1 London Rd, Edinburgh EH7 5DX, UK
5. Bodega
A taqueria serving up a twist on Mexican and Asian flavors, all inside a corn tortilla.
Address: 36 Leven St, Edinburgh EH3 9LJ, UK
6. BABA
If Mediterranean food is what you’re after, then look no further. Their charcoal grilled plates and mezze is something else, making BABA a win for the New Town. *Good location near the city centre’s hotels.
Address: 130 George St, Edinburgh EH2 4JZ, UK
7. El Cartel
Street tacos and mezcal — what else could one ask for?
Address: 64 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1EN, UK
8. L’Escargot Blanc
Fine French food here is served with the classics in an elegant room.
Address: 17 Queensferry St, Edinburgh EH2 4QW, UK
9. Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
A stunning view of the castle and an extensive menu of proteins and fresh ingredients is a sure win at this Edinburgh restaurant on the Royal Mile. This is a good spot in the Old Town for dinner.
Address: 356 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF, UK
10. The Little Chartroom
A small restaurant with only a few table and stools, serving elegant dishes.
Address: 30 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN, UK
11. Archipelago Bakery
Yes, this may not be a restaurant but it had to be included. Their fresh baked goods are out of this world and a good spot to bring the family to.
Address: 39 Dundas St, Edinburgh EH3 6QQ, UK
12. Aizle
A seasonal tasting menu with locally foraged ingredients that showcases Scottish cuisine.
Address: 107-109 St. Leonard’s St, Edinburgh EH8 9QY, UK
13. Hawksmoor
This large meat and seafood restaurant serves what’s fresh that day. You can order steak by the cut and cook to order here and have share plates to pair with the mains. One of my top meals in the city.
Address: 23 W Register St, Edinburgh EH2 2AA, UK
14. The Kitchin
French-Scottish food is served here in a fine dining setting.
Address: Commercial Quay Commercial St, Edinburgh EH6 6LX, UK
15. Kanpai
Elegant space serving up sushi with a sake pairing.
Address: 8-10 Grindlay St, Edinburgh EH3 9AS, UK
16. Civerinos Slice
If you’re in the mood for pizza and cheap eats, then head to this neighborhood spot.
Address: 5 Hunter Square, Edinburgh EH1 1QW, UK
17. Fazenda
A popular Brazilian restaurant with meats delivered to the table.
Address: 102 George St, Edinburgh EH2 3DF, UK
18. Côte Brasserie
Lovely French brasserie food with classics like French onion soup and beef tartare. Their wine menu is also great.
Address: 51 Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 1LH, UK
19. The Stockbridge Restaurant
A rotating menu here showcases seasonal ingredients with unpretentious Scottish food.
Address: 54 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AL, UK
20. Forage & Chatter
A casual restaurant that is done well with Scottish ingredients and great service.
Address: 1A Alva St, Edinburgh EH2 4PH, UK
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1 Comment
I have to say some of these photos are making me very hungry! We missed quite a few of these out when we visited Edinburgh, but I think that’s a good excuse to go back… right?!