Best Dinner Edinburgh Old Town: A Guide to Fine Dining in Scotland

Edinburgh is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, and its old town is a treasure trove of delicious dining options. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot or a tourist in search of the best cuisine in the city, this guide will help you narrow down your search. Follow along as we explore the best dinner options in Edinburgh’s old town.

🍴 The Tower Restaurant

The Tower Restaurant is located atop the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and offers stunning views of the city. The menu features classic Scottish dishes with a modern twist, such as venison tartare and Scottish langoustine. The elegant atmosphere and first-class service make this one of the best fine dining experiences in the city.

🎉 Special Occasions

The Tower Restaurant is a popular venue for special occasions, such as weddings or anniversaries. With its picturesque setting and exceptional cuisine, it’s no wonder why couples flock here for their big day.

🥂 Cocktails

The Tower Restaurant also has an impressive cocktail menu, featuring classic cocktails with a Scottish twist, such as the Thistle Sour and the Scottish Bramble. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a fancy drink after dinner, this is the spot.

🍴 Angels with Bagpipes

Angels with Bagpipes is a cozy restaurant located on the Royal Mile, offering traditional Scottish fare with a contemporary twist. The menu features dishes such as haggis bonbons and grilled Orkney scallops, all made with locally-sourced ingredients.

🎁 Gift Vouchers

If you’re looking for a unique gift for a foodie friend, Angels with Bagpipes offers gift vouchers that can be used for dinner at the restaurant. It’s the perfect way to give the gift of a delicious dining experience.

🍷 Wine List

Angels with Bagpipes also has an extensive wine list, featuring both classic and new world wines. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect pairing for your meal.

🍴 The Witchery by the Castle

The Witchery by the Castle is an iconic Edinburgh restaurant located in the heart of the old town. The menu features classic Scottish dishes with a luxurious twist, such as roast grouse and lobster thermidor. The opulent setting, complete with oak-panelled dining rooms and candlelit tables, make this one of the most romantic and unforgettable dining experiences in the city.

👻 Ghost Stories

The Witchery by the Castle is rumored to be haunted, and there are plenty of ghost stories surrounding the restaurant. If you’re a fan of the supernatural, ask the staff for a spooky tale or two.

🎭 Theatrical Dining

The Witchery by the Castle also offers a theatrical dining experience, complete with costumed servers and dramatic performances. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a fun night out with friends.

🍴 Ondine

Ondine is a seafood restaurant located on the historic George IV Bridge, offering fresh seafood dishes made with sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients. The sleek and modern atmosphere make this a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

🐟 Seafood Platters

Ondine is known for their impressive seafood platters, featuring a variety of fresh and delicious seafood. It’s the perfect way to sample a little bit of everything.

🍸 Gin & Tonic Menu

Ondine also has an extensive gin and tonic menu, featuring classic and contemporary gin cocktails. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect gin to complement your meal.

🍴 The Devil’s Advocate

The Devil’s Advocate is a bar and restaurant located in a historic Victorian pump house, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu features classic Scottish dishes with a contemporary twist, such as haggis and neeps croquettes and Cullen skink.

🍺 Whisky Tasting

The Devil’s Advocate is also known for their impressive whisky selection, featuring both classic and new world whiskies. They offer whisky tastings for those looking to learn more about this iconic Scottish spirit.

🍔 Burgers

If you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, The Devil’s Advocate also has a great selection of burgers. Made with locally-sourced ingredients, these burgers are some of the best in the city.

🍴 The Dining Room

The Dining Room is a cozy and intimate restaurant located in the heart of the old town. The menu features classic Scottish dishes with a modern twist, such as roast venison and Perthshire pigeon.

🥃 Whisky Flights

The Dining Room is known for their impressive whisky collection, featuring both classic and rare whiskies. They offer whisky flights for those looking to sample a variety of whiskies.

🍽️ Tasting Menu

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable dining experience, the tasting menu at The Dining Room is a must-try. Featuring a variety of dishes and flavors, it’s the perfect way to experience the best of Scottish cuisine.

🍴 Wedgwood the Restaurant

Wedgwood the Restaurant is a cozy and inviting restaurant located on the historic Royal Mile. The menu features classic Scottish dishes with a contemporary twist, such as Borders lamb and Perthshire pigeon.

🍾 Champagne

Wedgwood the Restaurant also has an impressive champagne menu, featuring both classic and new world champagnes. It’s the perfect way to add a little sparkle to your dinner.

🍷 Wine Pairings

The knowledgeable staff at Wedgwood the Restaurant can help you choose the perfect wine pairing for your meal. Whether you prefer red or white wine, they have a great selection to choose from.

🍴 Scran & Scallie

Scran & Scallie is a cozy and inviting gastropub located in the heart of the old town. The menu features classic Scottish pub fare with a modern twist, such as haggis sausage rolls and Cullen skink.

🍺 Local Beer

Scran & Scallie is known for their impressive selection of local beers, featuring both classic and new world brews. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a casual dinner with friends.

🍔 Pub Classics

If you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, Scran & Scallie also has a great selection of pub classics. From fish and chips to burgers, they have something for everyone.

Now that you know the best dinner spots in Edinburgh’s old town, it’s time to start planning your culinary adventure. Try out a few of these restaurants and let us know which ones are your favorites!

FAQs

1. What is the dress code for these restaurants?

The dress code for these restaurants varies, but most are on the formal side. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand to make sure you’re dressed appropriately.

2. Are these restaurants expensive?

Most of the restaurants on this list are on the pricier side, but the quality of the food and the experience make it worth it.

3. Do I need to make a reservation?

It’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially at the more popular restaurants on this list.

4. Are these restaurants kid-friendly?

Some of these restaurants may not be suitable for young children, so it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

5. What is the best time to go to these restaurants?

Most of these restaurants are busiest during peak dinner hours, so it’s best to make a reservation and plan accordingly.

6. Do these restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?

Most of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

7. What is the best way to get to these restaurants?

Most of these restaurants are located in the heart of the old town and are easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.

8. Are these restaurants wheelchair accessible?

Most of these restaurants are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

9. Do these restaurants offer private dining?

Most of these restaurants offer private dining options for special occasions or events.

10. What is the payment method for these restaurants?

Most of these restaurants accept credit cards and cash, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

11. What is the tipping policy for these restaurants?

The tipping policy varies, but most