The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants Bars in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city steeped in history, culture and gastronomy. With an abundance of restaurants and bars, it can be overwhelming for visitors to decide where to go and what to eat. To help you make the most of your dining experience, we’ve put together a guide to the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh.

The Best Restaurants Bar Edinburgh: A Local’s Perspective

With so many different places to choose from, it can be tricky to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, based on our own experiences and those of local residents. From traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, this guide has something for everyone.

The Best Scottish Cuisine

🍴 The Kitchin – This Michelin-starred restaurant in the Leith area of Edinburgh offers a modern take on traditional Scottish cuisine. With a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, The Kitchin serves up dishes like Perthshire Roe Deer and West Coast Halibut.

🍴 The Witchery by the Castle – This iconic restaurant sits in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle and offers a luxurious dining experience. The menu features classic Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties, as well as modern twists on traditional cuisine.

🍴 Howies – With several locations throughout the city, Howies is a popular choice for those looking for traditional Scottish fare. The menu includes dishes like Cullen Skink (a smoked haddock soup) and haggis, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options.

The Best International Cuisine

🍴 Ting Thai Caravan – This popular eatery serves up delicious Thai street food in a casual setting. With an open kitchen and shared tables, Ting Thai Caravan is the perfect place to grab a quick and tasty meal.

🍴 El Cartel – If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, El Cartel is the place to go. This trendy bar and restaurant serves up authentic tacos and margaritas in a lively atmosphere.

🍴 Dishoom – This Indian restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh offers a unique dining experience with its vintage decor and Bombay-inspired menu. From spicy curries to grilled meats, Dishoom has something for everyone.

The Best Bars in Edinburgh

🍸 Panda & Sons – This speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind a barber shop and offers a wide selection of cocktails and craft beers. With its quirky decor and cozy atmosphere, Panda & Sons is a must-visit for cocktail lovers.

🍸 The Devil’s Advocate – Housed in a former Victorian pump house, this bar offers an impressive selection of over 400 whiskies, as well as craft beers and cocktails. With its exposed brick walls and vaulted ceilings, The Devil’s Advocate is a unique and atmospheric spot for a drink.

🍸 The Bon Vivant – This stylish bar and restaurant serves up delicious cocktails and tasty small plates. With its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, The Bon Vivant is the perfect place for a night out with friends.

FAQs

1. What is the best restaurant for traditional Scottish food?

🍴 The Kitchin is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh for traditional Scottish cuisine. With a Michelin star and a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, The Kitchin offers a modern take on classic Scottish dishes.

2. Where can I find the best Mexican food in Edinburgh?

🍴 El Cartel is a popular choice for those in search of authentic Mexican cuisine in Edinburgh. This trendy bar and restaurant serves up delicious tacos and margaritas in a lively atmosphere.

3. What is the best bar for cocktails in Edinburgh?

🍸 Panda & Sons is a hidden gem in the heart of Edinburgh, with a speakeasy-style bar serving up a wide selection of creative cocktails and craft beers.

4. Where can I find vegetarian options in Edinburgh?

🍴 Howies is a great choice for vegetarians, with a menu featuring a variety of meat-free options, including vegetarian haggis.

5. What is the dress code for restaurants in Edinburgh?

👔 Dress codes vary depending on the restaurant, but many upscale restaurants in Edinburgh have a smart-casual dress code. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm their dress code.

6. What is the best time to visit Edinburgh’s restaurants and bars?

🕒 The best time to visit Edinburgh’s restaurants and bars can vary depending on the establishment. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant or bar’s hours of operation and make a reservation if possible.

7. Can I bring my own wine to a restaurant in Edinburgh?

🍷 Many restaurants in Edinburgh allow customers to bring their own wine, but corkage fees may apply. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s policy before bringing your own wine.

8. What is the best restaurant for a romantic dinner in Edinburgh?

🍴 The Witchery by the Castle is a romantic and luxurious restaurant located in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. With its elegant decor and delicious menu, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

9. What is the best restaurant for a family meal in Edinburgh?

🍴 Howies is a great choice for families, with a menu featuring a variety of kid-friendly options and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

10. What is the best bar for craft beer in Edinburgh?

🍸 The Hanging Bat is a popular spot for those in search of craft beer in Edinburgh. With a wide selection of local and international beers on tap, it’s a must-visit for beer lovers.

11. Where can I find the best views in Edinburgh?

🌅 The Tower Restaurant, located at the top of the National Museum of Scotland, offers stunning views of Edinburgh’s skyline. With a menu featuring modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive wine list, it’s a great spot for a special occasion.

12. What is the best restaurant for seafood in Edinburgh?

🍴 Ondine is a seafood-focused restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. With a menu featuring fresh, local seafood and an impressive wine list, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.

13. Where can I find the best whisky in Edinburgh?

🥃 The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a unique and immersive experience for whisky lovers. With a museum, tasting sessions and a shop selling over 300 whiskies, it’s the perfect place to learn more about Scotland’s national drink.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a city that truly has something for everyone when it comes to dining and drinking. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Scottish fare or international cuisine, there’s a restaurant or bar that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. We hope this guide has helped you navigate Edinburgh’s culinary scene and discover some new favorites.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!

Disclaimer

Please note that all information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication, but restaurants and bars may change or close without notice. We recommend checking each establishment’s website or calling ahead to confirm their hours of operation and menu offerings. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions in this article.