Edinburgh‘s gastronomic scene is booming. Scotland’s capital is home to a growing number of fine restaurants. From authentic pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, each tells a unique story. Get ready for a culinary adventure!
In this article, discover our selection of the best restaurants in Edinburgh. They combine gastronomy with character and savoir-faire. Find out more about our experiences with all our image tips.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Best restaurants in Edinburgh: our 4 favourites
In this article, we’ll expand on our review of each of the selected establishments. But we wanted to share the short-list of our 4 favorite restaurants in Edinburgh right away:
- Timberyard Restaurant: refined, creative cuisine in a raw, elegant setting.
- Restaurant Tipo: fresh Mediterranean dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
- Restaurant Pulse: inventive, colorful vegetarian cuisine in the vaulted setting of a church crypt.
- Restaurant Condita: a surprising tasting menu combined with minimalism and understated elegance.
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Best Michelin-starred and gourmet restaurants in Edinburgh
1. Timberyard Restaurant (1 Michelin star)
We had lunch at the Timberyard Restaurant and appreciated the discreet charm of this former warehouse. The white-painted bricks and dark wood of the large tables give the place a sober, warm look. Natural light floods the room, enlivened by touches of greenery from the garden. The setting is perfect for taking your time and savoring creative cuisine at the foot of Edinburgh Castle.
We began our meal with tasty cheddar gougères, served warm, before continuing with green asparagus, enhanced by a light, flowery sauce and hazelnut slivers. The perfectly cooked fish of the day was accompanied by melting potatoes. After an aged cheddar, we shared the two iced desserts on the menu. A delight from start to finish!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: near Grassmarket, a few minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle
- Restaurant type: Modern gastronomic, 1 star
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: Yes (small outdoor courtyard)
- Price range: Between €70 and €100 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialties: Yes (local Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservation here
2. Restaurant Tipo (Michelin BIB)
In the lively New Town district, Restaurant Tipo offered a relaxed contemporary dining experience. The decor focuses on the sobriety of light-colored wood and the proximity of the tables, which favors a dynamic, convivial atmosphere. The soft lighting and attentive service make for a pleasant experience, perfect for an informal dinner.
While we waited for our order, we tried a homemade focaccia, served warm with excellent olive oil. Next, the bigoli cacio e pepe was perfectly creamy, with just the right amount of pecorino. The dish of fried whole sea bream surprised us with its crispness and the spiciness of the chilli. A simple, precise cuisine, where every flavor is brought to the fore.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Restaurant type: Bistronomic, inspired by Mediterranean flavours
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
3. Restaurant Condita (1 Michelin star)
In a quiet residential area to the south of Old Town, we found Restaurant Condita, which keeps a low profile behind its signless façade. Inside, the atmosphere is intimate, with few tables and a minimalist, meticulous decor dominated by wood and natural materials. Subdued lighting and attention to detail offer a hushed experience, ideal for a special dinner away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
We were seduced by the surprise tasting menu, based on local seasonal produce. The cuisine is refined and inventive. It plays on textures and original combinations to create a sequence of delicate, perfectly mastered dishes. Food and wine pairings bring out often unexpected flavors. Each service is conceived as a moment in itself.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Southside
- Restaurant type: Gastronomic, 1 star
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: €160 per person (excluding drinks)
- Specialities of the destination: Yes (revisited Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
4. The Scran & Scallie Restaurant (Michelin BIB)
North of the city, in the Stockbridge district, we loved The Scran & Scallie Restaurant. The decor of this modern gastropub, with its leather banquettes and vintage furniture, offers a cosy, family atmosphere. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed. Smiling, efficient service puts you at ease from the moment you arrive.
The cuisine revisits the great Scottish pub classics, focusing on the quality of local produce. The recipes are generous. We found comforting dishes such as fish & chips and steak pie, served with care and simplicity. The whole experience is tasty and unpretentious, perfect for discovering a carefully-crafted version of the region’s must-tries, accompanied by a fine selection of craft beers.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Stockbridge
- Restaurant type: Gastropub
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes (Scottish classics revisited)
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
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Best vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh
5. Restaurant Pulse PlantBased HomeCooking
Nestled in the vaulted crypt ofSt John’s Church, Pulse PlantBased HomeCooking Restaurant offered us a unique experience in an unusual setting, facing St Cuthbert’s Kirkyard. The room, all wrapped in green, is punctuated by bouquets of fresh flowers placed on the tables. The atmosphere is soft and vegetal, and the welcome particularly attentive, in a spirit of conviviality.
We really enjoyed the tasty plant-based cuisine, made with local, fresh and organic produce. Whether it was the “Fab things on toast”, which revisited ratatouille with vegetables slowly simmered in herbs, or the melting Turkish eggplant with sweet chili pepper, we were in for a treat. The meal ended with a light and original vegan tiramisu. As for drinks, we opted for a house mocktail with spicy botanical notes. Indeed, at the time of our visit, the restaurant was alcohol-free.
Practical information:
- Neighbourhood: Near Prince’s St Gardens
- Restaurant type: Creative vegetarian, home cooking with organic products
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: yes
- Price range: Between €20 and €35 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations by telephone on +44 (0) 7930 801074
6. David Bann Restaurant
InOld Town, not far from the Royal Mile, Restaurant David Bann discreetly displays its navy blue façade. Inside, the rust-colored walls and dark wood furnishings create a warm ambience. The setting is pleasant and relaxing, and the staff attentive. We found the place ideal for a vegetarian brunch in a relaxed atmosphere.
Here, vegetarian cuisine is open to influences from around the world, while emphasizing local products. However, despite the gnocchi, eggplant keftas and homemade hummus, we opted for the vegetarian version of a traditional brunch and sampled the local cheeses, including a Strathdon blue cheese.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Old Town, near the Royal Mile
- Restaurant type: Vegetarian
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €20 and €35 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
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Best restaurants with international influences in Edinburgh
7. Restaurant Baba (Mediterranean)
In the heart of New Town, just off Charlotte Square, we loved the Oriental-influenced decor of Restaurant Baba. Velvet banquettes, shimmering carpets and subdued lighting create a warm, cosy atmosphere. A popular spot, it attracts diners for its relaxed, lively atmosphere. Reservations in advance are recommended.
The menu combines Middle Eastern flavors with Scottish produce. For dinner, we shared Lebanese-influenced plates made with carefully selected local produce. Labneh with grilled asparagus, burnt butter and macadamia was a gentle opener, followed by falafel, marinated artichokes , beet hummus and guindillas, all served with a soft grilled pita.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Restaurant type: Mediterranean cuisine, bistronomic style
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
8. Restaurant La Garrigue (French)
Just off the Royal Mile, we spotted Restaurant La Garrigue. The decor, all blue and rough wood, is strewn with colorful paintings depicting the landscapes of the South of France. The setting is warm and unpretentious. It’s reminiscent of a country bistro.
The menu features the flavors of the Languedoc region, with traditional French dishes prepared with care. At the time of our visit, the daily menu featured coq au vin blanc, a dish simmered over a long period in a rich, fragrant sauce, and baba au rhum for dessert.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Canongate
- Restaurant type: Traditional French cuisine, Languedoc-inspired
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €40 and €60 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Best restaurants in luxury hotels
9. Rhubarb Restaurant (Prestonfield House Hotel)
In the sumptuous setting of thePrestonfield House Hotelat the foot of Arthur’s Seat, the Rhubarb Restaurant plunged us into a luxurious atmosphere. Between the wood panelling, thick curtains and majestic chandeliers, the décor displays a classic elegance with baroque touches, facing the verdant park. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, perfect for a romantic or special dinner, in a setting reminiscent of the great Scottish residences of the period.
Here, we enjoyed classic, precise cuisine that makes the most of quality products. The starter combined marinated beet with Pavé Cobble sheep’s milk cheese for a fresh appetizer. The main course, pan-fried hake fillet, was accompanied by melting fennel and saffron mashed potatoes. For dessert, a lemon tart provided a tangy, gourmet finish to this meal in an exceptional setting.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Prestonfield
- Restaurant type: Gastronomic
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: Yes (in the hotel gardens, in season)
- Price range: Between €70 and €100 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialties: Yes (quality Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
- Stay at Prestonfield House Hotel, See prices, photos and availability
10. Restaurant Aizle (Kimpton Hotel, Michelin Mention)
Right in the heart of the elegant New Town district, we loved Restaurant Aizle and its bright, contemporary ambience. The décor plays on natural tones and materials, punctuated by greenery, under a huge veranda that resembles a greenhouse. The atmosphere is calm and refined, supported by a professional and attentive team, for a moment out of time.
We liked the concept of a surprise tasting menu, based on the seasons and local produce. Stuart Ralston ‘s team works hand-in-hand with Scottish producers to bring out the best in the local produce: sourdough bread, homemade butter, cocktails based on aged kombucha or homemadeaquavit. The experience is based on precise know-how, bold combinations and constant attention to product quality.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town, in the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
- Restaurant type: Creative gastronomy, seasonal tasting menu
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No, but bright veranda
- Price range: Between €120 and €160 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes (home-made Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
- Stay at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, See prices, photos and availability
11. Restaurant The Spence (Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel)
In the elegant Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel, The Spence Restaurant impressed us with its decor. Housed in a refurbished former bank room, we loved the high ceilings, sculpted columns and central cupola. The ambiance is both chic and relaxed, perfect for an elegant brunch or an exceptional dinner in a grandiose setting.
The cuisine celebrates the best of Scottish produce, worked with simplicity and precision. We noted that the menu evolves with the seasons, combining classic dishes revisited with more contemporary inspirations. Highland meats, fresh fish, vegetables from small-scale producers: every plate showcases the local bounty.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town, St Andrew Square
- Restaurant type: Chic brasserie, contemporary Scottish cuisine
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €40 and €70 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialties: Yes (quality Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
- Stay at Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel, See prices, photos and availability
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Best whisky restaurant in Edinburgh
12. Amber Restaurant
It was inside The Scotch Whisky Experience boutique, at the top of the Royal Mile, that we discovered Restaurant Amber. A sober, warm setting of light wood, contemporary touches and discreet reminders of theworld of whisky. The atmosphere is relaxed, with attentive service, ideal for a lunch or dinner focused on discovering Scottish flavors and tasting whisky.
The menu features Scottish produce, with simple, tasty dishes often inspired by local traditions. Regionally sourced meats, artisan cheeses, smoked fish and seasonal vegetables make up a generous and accessible cuisine. We also enjoyedexploring the carefully thought-outpairings between food and different whiskies.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: At the top of the Royal Mile, at the foot of Edinburgh Castle
- Restaurant type: Traditional Scottish cuisine
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes (Scottish dishes and products, whisky pairings)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Best pubs to eat in
13. Greyfriars Restaurant Bobby Bar
Located at the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard, this iconic pub pays tribute to the touching story of Bobby, a small Skye Terrier who became a local legend for keeping vigil over his master’s grave for 14 years. The statue of the dog, right in front of the pub, attracts many visitors. Inside, the atmosphere is resolutely Scottish. Dark wood panelling, leather armchairs, tartan patterns and vintage touches create a warm, authentic decor.
It’s the ideal place to try Scottish classics. We tried the crisp, tasty fish & chips. The pies (including a vegetarian version with lentils and vegetables) as well as the haggis and smoked salmon, are among the must-tries on the menu. As for drinks, Nicholson’s Pale Ale, brewed in Cornwall for the company that runs the establishment, is a sure bet.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Old Town, at the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard
- Restaurant type: Traditional Scottish pub
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: a few tables in season
- Price range: Between €20 and €40 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
14. Restaurant The Inn on the Mile
On the Royal Mile, The Inn on the Mile Restaurant occupies a building steeped in history, once the headquarters of the British Linen Bank. This pub-hotel elegantly combines the heritage of the past with a contemporary atmosphere. The interior plays on subtle contrasts: dark wood panelling, weathered leather, metallic elements, all enhanced by subdued lighting that lends a warm, sophisticated ambience. The address attracts both passing travellers and local regulars who come to enjoy the live concerts.
The menu features classic pub fare. We opted for a Caesar salad, balanced and generous, with perfect soft-boiled eggs. For dessert, a fruity crumble with a scoop of ice cream brought a comforting conclusion to the meal. The pub also offers a wide range of craft beers, house cocktails and Scotch whiskies, ideal for accompanying a dish or simply taking a break on the Royal Mile.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Royal Mile
- Restaurant type: Pub
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: yes
- Price range: Between €25 and €45 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
- Stay at The Inn on the Mile, See prices, photos and availability
Best addresses for a gourmet break
15. Restaurant Clarinda’s Tea Room
Close to Holyrood Palace, Clarinda’s Tea Room Restaurant took us back in time. This charmingly old-fashioned tea room cultivates a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere. The decor is a tribute to British traditions: floral tablecloths, fine china and wooden furniture. The atmosphere is warm and peaceful, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade.
While tea is in the spotlight, the home-made pastries and typical savory dishes are well worth a visit. The menu features fresh scones, fluffy carrot cakes, filling sandwiches and soups of the day. Don’t miss the Victoria sponge cake or the traditional Scottish shortbread, served with a cup of tea or chocolate. Far from the trendy addresses, this family-run tearoom is all about simplicity and authenticity.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Royal Mile
- Restaurant type: Tearoom
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €10 and €25 per person
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- No reservation
16. Restaurant Larder
Just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile, Restaurant Larder is a popular spot for brunch lovers. At the time of our visit, the place was particularly busy, reflecting its popularity with locals and visitors alike. The decor, minimalist and warm, blends light wood and pale colors. The atmosphere is friendly and lively.
This is an ideal address for a simple, tasty meal in an artisanal spirit, committed to quality products. We found generous plates ofeggs of all kinds, waffles, porridges and sandwiches.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: near the Royal Mile
- Type of restaurant: Healthy and light
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €15 and €30 per person
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
- Reservations here
17. Restaurant The Black Medicine Coffee
Next door to the Surgeon Hall Museum, The Black Medicine Coffee Restaurant is a popular address for coffee lovers. We loved its moldings and rough-hewn wood furnishings. The atmosphere is particularly warm. Very popular, especially with students, the space offers the perfect setting for a coffee break or a computer work session.
We found a careful selection of hot and cold beverages, from smooth flat whites to full-bodied espressos. The emphasis is on the quality of the beans and the expertise of the baristas, guaranteeing an authentic experience for lovers of artisan coffee. As for side dishes, you’ll have a choice of home-made pastries, scones and savoury options such as sandwiches and soups for a light lunch.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- Restaurant type: café
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €5 and €15 per person
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes (but the atmosphere is more conducive to work or study breaks)
- No reservation
18. Mary’s Milk Bar
Just off Grassmarket, the queue stretching out in front of Mary’s Milk Bar caught our eye. Inspired by the milk bars of the 1950s, the decor plays on a pastel, minimalist aesthetic, with a sleek counter displaying the artisanal ice creams of the day. The atmosphere is joyful in the line of gourmands eager to discover the flavors of the moment.
Here, artisanal ice creams are homemade, with a daily selection of original and creative flavors. Flavors vary according to the season and the founder’s inspiration, from classics like Madagascar vanilla to more surprising combinations like chocolate and chili, fig and ricotta or honey lavender. In addition to ice creams, you’ll find creamy milkshakes and homemade hot chocolates.
Practical information:
- Neighbourhood: Grassmarket
- Restaurant type: Artisanal ice cream parlour
- Capacity: Less than 25 covers (takeaway, few seats)
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €5 and €10 per person
- Specialities of the destination: No, but local artisanal ice creams
- Particularly suitable for children: Yes
Other places to eat in Edinburgh
Restaurant Purslane (Michelin Mention)
In the Stockbridge district, Restaurant Purslane is an intimate place to sample modern British cuisine. The chef offers a refined tasting menu, sublimating seasonal Scottish produce with creativity and precision. The hushed ambience and attentive service make it an ideal address for gourmet dining in Edinburgh.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Stockbridge
- Restaurant type: Gastronomic, modern British cuisine
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €50 and €80 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes (seasonal Scottish produce)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Restaurant Dulse (Fish, Michelin-starred)
Just off Charlotte Square, we found Restaurant Dulse. It’s known for celebrating Scottish seafood through modern, refined cuisine, led by chef Stuart Ralston. A popular address for lovers of maritime cuisine.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: West End, near Princes Street
- Restaurant type: Seafood and fish, modern Scottish cuisine
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €40 and €70 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialties: Yes (Scottish seafood)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Restaurant Noto (Fusion, Michelin mention)
We didn’t eat there, but we did spot Restaurant Noto, which revisits Scottish gastronomy with a Japanese twist, through a menu of small plates to share. Also led by chef Stuart Ralston, this is an elegant address that will delight lovers of contemporary cuisine.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Restaurant type: Fusion cuisine, small plates to share
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €40 and €60 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No, but we do promote Scottish products.
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Restaurant Skua (Modern English cuisine, Michelin BIB)
Still in New Town, we spotted Restaurant Skua for its inventive cuisine where local produce (always local) is worked with a minimalist, contemporary approach. The menu is constantly evolving and accompanied by a fine selection of natural wines.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Restaurant type: Modern gourmet
- Capacity: Less than 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €50 and €80 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialties: Yes (sublimated Scottish products)
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
Restaurant St Bernard’s Bar (Scottish pub)
In the heart of Stockbridge, St Bernard’s Bar Restaurant is an authentic Scottish pub. We chose it for its excellent selection of craft beers and whiskies. With dark wood panelling and subdued lighting, the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: Stockbridge
- Restaurant type: Traditional pub
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €20 and €40 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: Yes
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- No reservation
Restaurant Le Di-Vin (Wine bar)
Our curiosity led us to Restaurant Le Di-Vin, a French wine bar housed in a former church. Here you’ll find a vast selection of wines from around the world, accompanied by mature cheeses, charcuterie and French dishes. With its high vaulted ceiling and subdued lighting, the place is perfect for a convivial evening over a drink.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Restaurant type: Wine bar, French cuisine and gourmet platters
- Capacity: Over 25 place settings
- Terrace: No
- Price range: Between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks)
- Destination specialities: No
- Particularly suitable for children: No
- Reservations here
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