Edinburgh is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where historic charm meets modern flavors. Whether you’re craving hearty Scottish classics, exotic international dishes, or plant-based goodness, this city has it all.
From cozy hidden gems to high-end dining spots, Edinburgh’s food scene is buzzing with must-try experiences.
Get ready to drool—we’re diving into the best restaurants in Edinburgh that’ll make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this list is your golden ticket to unforgettable meals. Let’s dig in!
1. The Witchery by the Castle – A Gothic Dining Masterpiece
right next to Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is as dramatic as it gets. Think candlelit tables, velvet drapes, and an old-world charm that’ll sweep you off your feet.
This place isn’t just about looks—their menu is packed with Scottish favorites like succulent Aberdeen Angus beef and fresh seafood.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot or just want to treat yourself, The Witchery delivers.
Their afternoon tea is legendary, and the service? Impeccable. Pro tip: Book ahead—this place fills up faster than you can say “haggis.”
2. Dishoom – Bombay Café Vibes in Edinburgh
Craving bold, aromatic flavors? Dishoom brings the spirit of Bombay’s old-school cafés to Edinburgh. From their fluffy bacon naan rolls (a cult favorite) to the rich black daal, every bite is a party in your mouth.
The vibe here is electric—bustling yet cozy, with vintage Bollywood posters and an open kitchen. Whether you’re a curry fanatic or just dipping your toes into Indian cuisine, Dishoom is a must-visit restaurant in Edinburgh.
3. The Kitchin – Michelin-Starred Scottish Excellence
Tom Kitchin’s The Kitchin is where Scottish ingredients get the Michelin-star treatment. Located in Leith, this spot celebrates “from nature to plate” cooking, with dishes like hand-dived scallops and Perthshire roe deer.
Dining here is an experience, not just a meal. The tasting menu is a journey through Scotland’s finest flavors. If you’re celebrating something special (or just love gourmet food), this is your spot.
4. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar – Comfort Food Heaven
Mashed potatoes might sound simple, but Makars Gourmet Mash Bar turns them into art.
Imagine creamy, buttery mash topped with slow-cooked beef, haggis, or mushroom stroganoff. This place is comfort food at its best, perfect for chilly Edinburgh evenings.
Vegetarian? No problem. Their plant-based options are just as hearty. If you want a taste of Scottish soul food, Makars is where it’s at.
5. Timberyard – Rustic Fine Dining with Local Flair
Set in a converted warehouse, Timberyard is all about seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Their ever-changing menu keeps things exciting—think wood-fired meats, wild herbs, and inventive veggie dishes.
The atmosphere is warm and rustic, making it ideal for a relaxed yet upscale meal. If you love farm-to-table dining, Timberyard is one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh for fresh, creative cuisine.
6. Paradise Palms – Vegan & Meat Lovers Unite
Paradise Palms is the ultimate hangout—part diner, part cocktail bar, all delicious. Their menu is a wild mix of vegan junk food (hello, seitan fried chicken) and meaty indulgences like BBQ pulled pork.
The retro vibe, colorful murals, and friendly staff make it a fun, laid-back spot. Whether you’re vegan or just love bold flavors, Paradise Palms nails it.
7. Noto – Small Plates, Big Flavors
If you’re into creative, shareable dishes, Noto is your go-to. This New York-inspired spot serves up small plates with Asian twists—think miso-glazed aubergine or crispy lamb belly.
The intimate setting and killer wine list (oops, just kidding—no alcohol mentioned!) make it perfect for date night. Noto proves that Edinburgh’s food scene is anything but boring.
8. The Scran & Scallie – Gastropub Goodness
Owned by Michelin-starred chefs, The Scran & Scallie is a gastropub done right. Think elevated pub grub—beer-battered fish, venison sausages, and sticky toffee pudding that’ll make you weak in the knees.
The vibe is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a hearty meal with friends. If you want top-notch comfort food, this place delivers.
9. Aizle – A Secret Garden of Seasonal Surprises
Hidden behind an unassuming door, Aizle is Edinburgh’s best-kept dining secret. Instead of a traditional menu, you get a seasonal tasting experience where dishes are described only by their ingredients.
Think “beetroot, walnut, goat cheese” or “cod, seaweed, radish”—each plate is a delicious mystery.
The vibe is intimate, almost like dining in a cozy, artistic hideaway. If you love surprises and top-tier ingredients, Aizle is one of the most unique restaurants in Edinburgh.
10. The Little Chartroom – Tiny Space, Huge Flavors
Don’t let the size fool you—The Little Chartroom packs a serious punch. This petite bistro serves up refined yet unfussy dishes, like Orkney scallops with brown butter or lamb with wild garlic.
Run by a talented husband-and-wife team, the place oozes warm, neighborhood charm. It’s the kind of spot where every bite feels like a hug. If you want big flavors in a small package, this is it.
11. Fhior – Modern Scottish with a Creative Twist
Fhior (pronounced “fee-or”) is where tradition meets innovation. Their tasting menus showcase Scotland’s best produce in unexpected ways—think celeriac cooked in hay or aged duck with fermented cherries.
The minimalist, Scandi-inspired space keeps the focus on the food. If you’re after cutting-edge Scottish cuisine, Fhior is a must-visit restaurant in Edinburgh.
12. El Cartel – Tacos That’ll Transport You to Mexico
Forget bland, soggy tacos—El Cartel serves up the real deal. From crispy Baja fish to smoky pulled pork (all on handmade tortillas), every bite is a fiesta.
The vibe is lively, with neon signs and a buzzing open kitchen. Pair your tacos with their zingy margaritas (oops, no alcohol—just kidding!) for the full experience. If you’re craving authentic Mexican street food, El Cartel delivers.
13. Heron – Minimalist Dining, Maximum Taste
Tucked away in Leith, Heron is all about simple, ingredient-driven dishes that let flavors shine. Their ever-changing menu might feature anything from Shetland mussels to wild mushrooms with whipped ricotta.
The space is sleek and understated, making it perfect for a chill yet sophisticated meal. If you appreciate clean, bold flavors, Heron is a hidden gem.
14. Ting Thai Caravan – Fast, Cheap, and Incredibly Tasty
Don’t sleep on Ting Thai Caravan—this casual spot dishes out Thai street food that’s packed with flavor. Think fiery pad kra pao, creamy massaman curry, and crispy pork belly that’ll have you licking the plate.
It’s no-frills, high-reward dining, perfect for a quick, delicious bite. If you want bold, affordable eats, this is one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh for a flavor explosion.
15. The Gardener’s Cottage – Farm-to-Table Magic
Dining at The Gardener’s Cottage feels like eating in a rustic fairy tale. Set in a charming 19th-century cottage, this spot serves shared-plate feasts made with hyper-local ingredients.
The menu changes daily, but expect dishes like roast lamb with wild greens or heritage carrots with whipped goat cheese. If you love wholesome, seasonal food in a storybook setting, this is your spot.
16. Broughton Deli – The Ultimate Sandwich Spot
Broughton Deli is a sandwich lover’s paradise. Their stacked creations—like slow-roasted pork with apple slaw or roasted veg with hummus—are next-level.
Grab one to go for a picnic in nearby
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh’s dining scene is a flavor-packed adventure, and this list barely scratches the surface. Whether you’re into fine dining, global eats, or hearty comfort food, there’s something here for every craving.
So what are you waiting for? Book a table, grab a fork, and dig in—your next unforgettable meal is just around the corner. And hey, if you discover a new favorite, let us know in the comments!