Must-visit restaurants in Edinburgh: a taste of Scotland's capital

Collaborative Post | Edinburgh is not only the city of ancient castles and picturesque cobbled streets but a city of a rich culinary scene that is a bright combination of tradition and innovation. To tourists who are on a mission to find good hotel deals in Edinburgh, finding restaurants that embody the eclectic nature of the city can make their whole experience that much better. Whether it is a classic Scottish fare or a gastronomic adventure, these outstanding restaurants offer mouthwatering experiences, and they help to bring to light the gastronomic identity of Edinburgh.

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Classic Scottish flavours at The Kitchin

Located along the picturesque waterfront of Leith, The Kitchin is renowned for offering quintessential Scottish dishes with contemporary flair. Chef Tom Kitchin, a celebrated culinary visionary, champions locally sourced, seasonal produce. Diners frequently rave about his Orkney scallops and Highland venison. Every dish narrates Scotland’s rich bounty, making meals here unforgettable.

Modern innovation at Timberyard

Timberyard is hidden in a former warehouse and combines urban style with a menu based on innovative gastronomy. Its focus on sustainability and creativity provides dishes in which local seafood is combined with freshly grown garden vegetables. Every mouthful is brimming with novelty, with combinations such as wood pigeon and earthy beetroot being interesting. This unique restaurant boldly outlines the modern culinary narrative of Edinburgh.

Cosy comfort at The Scran & Scallie

To those who seek comfort as well as culinary perfection, Tom Kitchin has a second restaurant, The Scran & Scallie, which welcomes its guests into its cozy and casual atmosphere. Its well-thought-out menu marries comfort foods, such as juicy beef pies and sticky toffee puddings, and a touch of elegance. Customers are served strong Scottish ales, which perfectly match heavy dishes. It is the exact point where casual dining and excellent quality come together.

Seafood spectacular at Ondine

Seafood aficionados shouldn't miss Ondine, centrally situated near Edinburgh's historic Old Town. This seafood-focused venue showcases fresh oysters, langoustines, and sustainably caught fish, elevated by elegant yet unfussy preparations. With a lively ambience matched by oceanic freshness, Ondine gracefully combines coastal simplicity and culinary finesse, perfectly capturing Scotland’s maritime heritage.

Whimsical elegance at The Witchery

Eating in The Witchery by the Castle is like stepping into a fairy tale. This luxurious restaurant, located next to the Edinburgh Castle, surrounds the visitors with the theatrical, medieval-style environment. Delicious foods like smoked salmon and indulgent beef Wellington are expertly cooked and tease the tastebuds under a fluttering candlelight. It is a perfect selection for celebratory nights and romantic adventures.

Vegetarian delight at David Bann

David Bann is a master in drawing attention to the plant-based gastronomy with Scottish twists. This modern restaurant never ceases to amaze patrons with innovative vegetarian dishes, such as beetroot and blue cheese risotto or vegetable tarts with many layers. The dishes that Bann has to offer are a delicious surprise to even the staunchest meat-eaters, so no matter who comes to visit, they will find new and surprising tastes.

Casual charm at Oink

For authentic casual dining, Edinburgh locals flock to Oink, beloved for its famous pulled pork rolls. Slow-roasted hog sandwiches, generously topped with tangy apple sauce or hearty haggis, perfectly exemplify no-frills culinary pleasures. Friendly service combined with simple yet mouthwatering fare makes Oink an essential stop for anyone seeking genuine Scottish street eats.

Sweet endings at Mary's Milk Bar​

No gastronomical adventure ends without dessert. Marys Milk Bar is a lovely old-fashioned gelateria located in Grassmarket and serves wonderful artisan ice cream and chocolates that are made fresh every day using fresh ingredients. Creative tastes such as whisky marmalade or salted caramel keep seducing adventurous taste buds with sweet memories of the capital of Scotland.

From traditional taverns to avant-garde kitchens, Edinburgh's vibrant restaurant landscape invites exploration and indulgence, giving visitors countless tasty reasons to keep returning to Scotland.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.