The Best Restaurants in Edinburgh Time Out

Discover the top-rated restaurants in Edinburgh with Time Out’s comprehensive guide

Edinburgh is a hub of culinary delights, boasting a diverse range of restaurants serving up everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine. But with so many options to choose from, it can be a daunting task to find the best restaurants in Edinburgh. That’s where Time Out’s guide comes in.

Our team of food experts has scoured the city to bring you the ultimate list of Edinburgh’s best restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a casual eatery, or a hidden gem, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the top-rated restaurants in Edinburgh and start planning your next culinary adventure.

🍴 The Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Edinburgh 🍴

For a special occasion or a luxurious night out, these fine dining restaurants in Edinburgh are sure to impress.

The Kitchin

The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Leith area of Edinburgh. Chef Tom Kitchin’s philosophy is to showcase the best of Scotland’s ingredients, with a menu that changes daily to reflect what’s in season. The elegant dining room and impeccable service make for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Number One

Located in the prestigious Balmoral Hotel, Number One is another Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Head Chef Brian Grigor creates innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on Scottish seafood.

Restaurant Martin Wishart

Restaurant Martin Wishart is a French-inspired fine dining restaurant located in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith. Chef Martin Wishart’s culinary creations are a celebration of the best local produce, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

🍔 The Best Casual Dining Restaurants in Edinburgh 🍔

If you’re looking for a more laid-back dining experience, these casual restaurants in Edinburgh are sure to hit the spot.

Burger

As the name suggests, Burger is a restaurant that specializes in burgers. But these aren’t your average burgers – they’re made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and come with creative toppings like haggis, blue cheese, and smoked bacon.

Bodega

Bodega is a Mexican street food restaurant located in the city center. The colorful and vibrant decor sets the mood for a fun and casual dining experience, with dishes like tacos, burritos, and nachos that are perfect for sharing.

The Dogs

The Dogs is a quirky restaurant that serves up hearty and comforting British classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and steak and kidney pie. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot with locals and visitors alike.

🍣 The Best Japanese Restaurants in Edinburgh 🍣

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, these restaurants in Edinburgh are not to be missed.

Maki & Ramen

Maki & Ramen is a Japanese restaurant that specializes in – you guessed it – sushi rolls and ramen noodles. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Kanpai Sushi

Kanpai Sushi is a small and intimate sushi bar located in the city center. The sushi is made fresh to order, with an emphasis on using the freshest and most sustainable ingredients possible.

Harajuku Kitchen

Harajuku Kitchen is a family-run restaurant that serves up authentic Japanese cuisine. The menu includes dishes like udon noodles, donburi rice bowls, and bento boxes, all made with high-quality ingredients.

🌮 The Best Street Food in Edinburgh 🌮

If you’re on the go and want a quick and tasty bite, these street food options in Edinburgh are sure to satisfy.

ShrimpWreck

ShrimpWreck is a seafood truck that serves up fresh and delicious seafood dishes like fish tacos, crab cakes, and lobster rolls. The bright and colorful truck can be found at various locations around the city.

Chompsky

Chompsky is a street food vendor that serves up Asian-inspired dishes like Korean fried chicken, bao buns, and noodle bowls. The food is flavorful and inventive, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients.

Barnacles & Bones

Barnacles & Bones is a food truck that specializes in shellfish and meat dishes. The menu changes regularly, but you can expect to find dishes like lobster mac and cheese, pulled pork sliders, and crab cakes.

🍦 The Best Desserts in Edinburgh 🍦

No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and these dessert spots in Edinburgh are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Mary’s Milk Bar

Mary’s Milk Bar is a charming ice cream parlor that serves up delicious and inventive ice cream flavors like lavender, rhubarb and custard, and dark chocolate and orange. The vintage decor and friendly staff make it a popular spot with locals and tourists alike.

Cuckoo’s Bakery

Cuckoo’s Bakery is a cupcake bakery that offers a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more unusual options like blueberry and basil and gin and tonic. The cupcakes are beautifully decorated and make for the perfect Instagram shot.

The Elephant House

The Elephant House is a cafe that’s famous for being the spot where J.K. Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book. But aside from its literary connections, it’s also known for its delicious cakes and pastries, with options like Victoria sponge, lemon tart, and chocolate brownie.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions 🤔

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

The Kitchin and Number One are both great options for a romantic dinner, with their elegant dining rooms and impeccable service.

2. What is the best restaurant for vegetarian food in Edinburgh?

David Bann is a vegetarian restaurant that offers creative and flavorful dishes like beetroot and goat cheese tart and wild mushroom risotto.

3. Where can I find the best fish and chips in Edinburgh?

The Tailend is a fish and chip shop that’s been awarded numerous accolades for its delicious seafood dishes.

4. What is the best restaurant for a group dinner in Edinburgh?

Bodega is a great option for a group dinner, with its fun and lively atmosphere and shareable dishes like tacos and nachos.

5. Where can I find the best Indian food in Edinburgh?

Dishoom is a popular Indian restaurant that’s known for its delicious and authentic Bombay-style dishes.

6. What is the best restaurant for a business lunch in Edinburgh?

For a stylish and sophisticated business lunch, try The Ivy on the Square, with its elegant decor and menu of classic British dishes.

7. Where can I find the best pizza in Edinburgh?

Civerino’s is a pizza restaurant that serves up Neapolitan-style pizzas with creative toppings like black truffle oil and smoked salmon.

8. What is the best restaurant for a pre-theater dinner in Edinburgh?

The Witchery is a luxurious restaurant located near the Royal Mile, making it the perfect option for a pre-theater dinner.

9. Where can I find the best coffee in Edinburgh?

Artisan Roast is a specialty coffee shop that’s known for its high-quality beans and expertly brewed coffee.

10. What is the best restaurant for a Sunday roast in Edinburgh?

The Scran and Scallie is a gastropub that serves up delicious Sunday roasts with all the trimmings.

11. Where can I find the best Chinese food in Edinburgh?

Kweilin is a Chinese restaurant that’s known for its delicious dim sum and seafood dishes.

12. What is the best restaurant for a view in Edinburgh?

The Tower Restaurant, located atop the National Museum of Scotland, offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline.

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

The Voodoo Rooms is a stylish cocktail bar that offers expertly crafted drinks and a glamorous atmosphere.

👋 Conclusion 👋

There you have it – our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Edinburgh Time Out. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or casual eats, Japanese cuisine or street food, we’ve got you covered. So why not start planning your next foodie adventure in Edinburgh? Bon appetit!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the time of publication. Please check with individual restaurants for the latest information on their menus, opening hours, and booking policies.