Top 6 Places to Eat in Edinburgh

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price
28/08/2025
A stunning view of Edinburgh's skyline featuring the iconic Balmoral Clock Tower during fall.
Laura Meinhardt, Pexels

Edinburgh's culinary landscape is a dynamic blend of traditional Scottish fare and vibrant international influences, catering to discerning foodies, couples seeking intimate settings, and those looking for casual, authentic experiences. The city prides itself on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing a range from exquisite fine dining to bustling street food.

1. The Witchery By The Castle

Cuisine: Scottish Fine Dining

Nestled at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, this restaurant offers an opulent, gothic 16th-century setting, steeped in history and atmosphere. It serves a fine dining menu that highlights the best of Scotland's larder, including game from Perthshire and beef from the Scottish Borders. The experience is one of exceptional food and service, making it an ideal choice for a very special, romantic dinner.

Price: ££££ (Expect £80+ per person for dinner, a two-course lunch menu is available around £34.50 per person)

Getting There: Located on Castlehill, Royal Mile, EH1 2NF, it is a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and other Old Town attractions.

2. The Little Chartroom

Cuisine: Modern European with Scottish Produce

Situated in Leith, this elegant yet understated restaurant features an open kitchen and a confident, relaxed atmosphere. The concise and ambitious menu adapts regularly to showcase the best of Scottish produce, elevating simple ingredients to gourmet standards. Expect attentive yet unintrusive service.

Price: £££ (Expect £50-£70+ per person for dinner, depending on courses and drinks)

Getting There: Found in Leith, a short journey from central Edinburgh. It is accessible by local bus services or taxi from the city centre.

3. Dishoom

Cuisine: Indian (Irani Cafe style)

This popular establishment recreates the lively, welcoming ambiance of Bombay's Irani cafés. The all-day menu features fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared Anglo-Indian dishes, from invigoratingly spiced lamb curries to delicious breakfast naans. The staff are attentive, and the immaculate setting creates an immersive dining experience.

Price: ££ (Expect £25-£40 per person for a shared meal; breakfast is more affordable)

Getting There: Located in the New Town, just past Princes Street, it is easily walkable from the city centre.

4. The Devil's Advocate

Cuisine: Modern Scottish, Seasonal

Tucked away in Advocates Close, just off the Royal Mile, this intimate and upmarket restaurant is housed in an old Victorian pump house. It features a dining area above a stylish bar known for its extensive whisky collection. The menu changes monthly, emphasizing seasonal and carefully sourced Scottish ingredients, making it ideal for a romantic or special occasion.

Price: £££ (Expect £30-£50+ per person for a main course and drinks)

Getting There: Located off the Royal Mile in Advocates Close, EH1 1RE. It is easily accessible on foot from Edinburgh's Old Town attractions.

5. Ting Thai

Cuisine: Thai Street Food

This vibrant eatery brings the dynamic energy and bold flavors of Bangkok's street food scene to Edinburgh. The relaxed, unfussy setting, with communal wooden tables and an open kitchen, makes for a social dining experience. The menu focuses on fast, fresh, and powerfully flavored dishes, including various curries, noodles, and customizable soup bowls, with good vegetarian and vegan options.

Price: £ (Most main dishes are between £7-£15)

Getting There: With multiple central locations, including Lothian Road (West End) and Teviot Place (near the university), it is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.

6. Oink

Cuisine: Scottish Hog Roast

Oink is a simple yet popular spot renowned for its hog roast rolls, serving succulent pulled pork directly from a whole roasted pig. Customers can customize their roll with a choice of white or brown bread, traditional sage and onion or haggis stuffing, and various sauces like apple sauce, mustard mayo, or chilli cheese. It offers a quick, delicious, and authentic Scottish fast-food experience.

Price: £ (Hog roast rolls typically cost £5-£10, depending on size)

Getting There: Oink has several convenient locations, including Grassmarket (Victoria Street) and Canongate (Royal Mile), making it easily walkable from many Old Town sights.

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