Edinburgh is a city that never fails to surprise.
It does so with its majestic architecture, its atmosphere suspended between history and legend, and its landscapes that look as if they were painted. But there’s another, more intimate and sensorial way to experience the Scottish capital: through its flavours.
During my latest trip, I explored the city with my palate too, letting curiosity guide me toward new, authentic — and, ça va sans dire — beautiful places. From the gothic charm of a restaurant just steps from the castle, to the laid-back vibe of a hidden bistro in Leith, each spot has a story to tell. And every dish becomes a way to take a piece of the journey home.
In this article, I’ve gathered some of my favourite restaurants in Edinburgh: places where aesthetics meet quality, where the service is attentive but never intrusive, and where every detail — from the mise en place to the wine list — truly matters. Whether you’re planning a weekend in the city or simply want to discover a more contemporary, refined side of Scotland, this guide is for you.
Bon voyage — and bon appétit.
📌 The Spence, 39 St Andrew Square Edinburgh
A menu rich in local ingredients, an enchanting atmosphere and top-tier quality make this spot a must-visit food destination in Edinburgh. The cuisine blends modern classics with seasonal inspiration, while the wine list features a balanced selection of traditional and emerging producers. You can dine here all day long — from early morning breakfast to dinner (which I highly recommend), including brunch and afternoon tea.
Not to be missed: Chicken and ham hock terrine, Lamb croquettes, and Spiced aubergines with tahini, preserved lemon and pickled chilli.
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📌 The Witchery by the Castle, 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh
Just a few steps from Edinburgh Castle, almost hidden from sight, lies a truly special garden: the Secret Garden. Candlelit and steeped in the legendary history of Edinburgh, diners here are surrounded by walls that have witnessed centuries of Scottish heritage — adorned with opulent tapestries and an intricately carved oak tree.
The setting alone is worth the visit, but the menu certainly lives up to the atmosphere. Guests can opt for à la carte dining, or enjoy the Two-Course Lunch, served daily from noon to 4:30 PM — the perfect way to explore local flavours with great value.
Not to be missed: Ham hock terrine with piccalilli and Lamb roulade with apricots and harissa-glazed carrots.
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📌 The Outsider, 15-16 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh
Famous for offering one of the most stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, The Outsider captivates from the very first step inside. The space is elegant, sophisticated and modern, enriched with artistic touches that make it truly unique.
The cuisine is love at first bite — an international menu of the highest quality that embraces local traditions while taking you on a journey through flavours inspired by different corners of the world.
If you have the chance to dine here at sunset, your experience will become even more unforgettable.
Not to be missed: Steamed mussels with white wine, cream, pancetta, pine nuts, Parmesan and fresh basil, Whole roasted lobster with garlic butter, salad, fries and garlic mayo, and Pan-seared duck breast with pear and brie spanakopita, pickled carrots, port reduction and dukkah.
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📌 Fishers at The Shore, 1 Shore, Leith Edinburgh
The location couldn’t be more local: a 17th-century watchtower that now houses a restaurant with two charming dining rooms — one more refined, dressed in white linen and overlooking a circular bar, and the other with a cosy bistro feel.
The menu reflects the spirit of the sea and of Leith itself: excellent, ultra-fresh ingredients prepared with care and respect, celebrating traditional flavours with a contemporary touch.
Not to be missed: Mussels in butter, Spaghetti with wild garlic pesto, ‘nduja and smoked almond gremolata, and Whole West Coast lobster with garlic butter, fries and salad.
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📌 Ting Thai, 55-57 Lothian Rd Edinburgh
Authentic Thai street food served in a small, unassuming spot in the university district — so good we went back a second time. If you’re a Thai food lover, this is definitely one to highlight in your travel notebook.
Not to be missed:
PENG GAI KAO PRIK — spicy Bangkok-style chicken wings
MASSAMAN GAI — chicken in coconut milk with Massaman curry sauce, potatoes, onion, peanuts and palm sugar
KAI LOOK-KUEY (SON-IN-LAW) — fried egg with crispy shallots, dried chilli and Ting’s chilli jam
PAD THAI — flat noodles with king prawns/chicken/beef/vegetables, peanuts, egg, nam pla, palm sugar, tamarind, bean sprouts, chilli and spring onion.
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📌 Under The Table, 3A1, Dundas St, Edinburgh
A delicious and modern bistro nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s beautiful New Town. The menu strikes a perfect balance between local flavours and European inspiration, always following the rhythm of the seasons. With a strong focus on premium ingredients, Under The Table brings out the best that Scotland has to offer through a truly exciting and thoughtful culinary experience.
Not to be missed:
Warm smoked salmon salad, Courgettes with peas, feta, lemon and capers,
Braised beef cheek with Parmesan polenta, rainbow chard and salsa verde,
Cod with puttanesca sauce and roasted purple potato, and
Chocolate crémeux with pistachio crumble and raspberry.
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📌 Fava Restaurant, 248 Morrison St Edinburgh
If you’re in Edinburgh and craving Greek flavours, this is a must-visit. At Fava Restaurant, you’ll be fully immersed in the ingredients and recipes that have made Greek cuisine so iconic — all at a great value for money.
Not to be missed:
Greek fava — split pea purée with leeks, peppers, celery, carrots, garlic, thyme, onions and olive oil
Tzatziki — Greek yoghurt with grated cucumber, garlic, dill and olive oil
Hummus — blended chickpeas with lemon juice, tahini, cumin, garlic and olive oil
Fava mixed grill — lamb, chicken, pork belly, beef meatballs and sausages served with tzatziki and crushed baby potatoes.
Immagini nel testo Laura Renieri, foto di copertina Garvit Nama | Tutti i diritti sono riservati