Discover the Best Restaurants in Edinburgh for Lunch

Edinburgh is a cultural hub of the UK, with its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant food scene. If you’re looking for a mouth-watering lunch, you’re in the right place. Edinburgh boasts some of the best restaurants in the world, offering a wide range of cuisine that will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Scottish dishes or international favorites, you’ll find something here that will delight your taste buds.

Why Edinburgh is a Foodie’s Paradise

Edinburgh is a melting pot of cultures, offering a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street food vendors, there’s something for everyone. The city is home to some of the freshest produce in Scotland, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Edinburgh’s chefs use these ingredients to create innovative dishes that showcase Scotland’s culinary heritage.

The Best Restaurants in Edinburgh for Lunch

Ready to indulge in some of the best food that Edinburgh has to offer? Check out our top picks for lunch spots:

The Dogs 🐶

If you’re in the mood for traditional Scottish food, The Dogs is the place to be. This cozy restaurant offers delicious Scottish dishes with a modern twist. From haggis to venison, all their ingredients are locally sourced. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and friendly staff while indulging in their mouth-watering food.

Brew Lab ☕️

Looking for a quick lunch on-the-go? Look no further than Brew Lab. This small coffee shop offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made fresh to order. They also serve specialty coffee that will give you the perfect pick-me-up for the rest of your day.

L’Escargot Bleu 🐌

If you’re in the mood for French cuisine, L’Escargot Bleu is the perfect spot. This charming restaurant offers classic French dishes with a Scottish twist. From escargot to coq au vin, you’ll find something that will satisfy your cravings. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and excellent service make it a must-visit spot for lunch.

The Scran and Scallie 🍽

The Scran and Scallie is a gastropub that offers delicious Scottish dishes. This trendy spot is perfect for a casual lunch with friends or family. Their menu includes classic pub food as well as more refined dishes, all made with locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on their Sunday roasts, which are a local favorite.

Mother India’s Cafe 🍛

If you’re looking for Indian food, Mother India’s Cafe is the place to be. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of Indian dishes, including vegetarian options. Their tapas-style dishes are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t forget to try their famous lamb curry, which is a must-try dish.

The Witchery by the Castle 🧙‍♀️

The Witchery by the Castle is an iconic restaurant located in a 16th-century building. This romantic spot offers a luxurious dining experience, with a focus on Scottish cuisine. Their menu includes classic dishes such as haggis, as well as more refined options. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle make it a must-visit spot for lunch.

The Bon Vivant 🍽

The Bon Vivant is a chic restaurant that offers a range of Scottish and international dishes. This trendy spot is perfect for a stylish lunch with friends or colleagues. Their menu includes classic dishes as well as more innovative options, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to try their signature cocktails, which are a local favorite.

The Outsider 🌅

The Outsider is a hidden gem located in the heart of Edinburgh. This restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu that focuses on Scottish cuisine. Their menu includes classic dishes as well as more refined options, all made with locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on their delicious desserts, which are a perfect way to end your lunch.

Cafe St Honore ☕️

Cafe St Honore is a charming French restaurant that offers a range of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. This cozy spot is perfect for a lunch date or a catch-up with friends. Their menu includes classic French dishes as well as more innovative options. Don’t forget to try their amazing cheese plate, which is a must-try for cheese lovers.

The Kitchin 🍴

The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a range of Scottish dishes. This elegant spot is perfect for a special occasion lunch. Their menu includes classic dishes as well as more innovative options, all made with locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on their tasting menu, which is a culinary journey through Scotland.

The Mosque Kitchen 🍛

The Mosque Kitchen is a hidden gem located near Edinburgh’s Old Town. This canteen-style restaurant offers delicious Indian food for a fraction of the price of other Indian restaurants in the city. Their menu includes classic dishes as well as more innovative options, all made fresh to order. Don’t forget to try their famous chicken curry, which is a local favorite.

The Devil’s Advocate 🥃

The Devil’s Advocate is a trendy bar that also offers a range of food options. This spot is perfect for a casual lunch with friends or colleagues. Their menu includes classic pub food as well as more refined dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss out on their amazing whiskey selection, which is a must-try for whiskey lovers.

David Bann 🌱

David Bann is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of innovative dishes. This cozy spot is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Their menu includes classic dishes as well as more innovative options, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to try their amazing desserts, which are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Baba 🍴

Baba is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a range of dishes from the Middle East. This trendy spot is perfect for a stylish lunch with friends or colleagues. Their menu includes classic Middle Eastern dishes as well as more innovative options, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on their amazing cocktails, which are a local favorite.

FAQs

What is the average price range of these restaurants?

The average price range of these restaurants is between £10-£30 per person.

What type of cuisine is available in these restaurants?

These restaurants offer a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Scottish dishes to international favorites.

Do these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options?

Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options.

Do I need to make a reservation before visiting these restaurants?

It is recommended to make a reservation before visiting these restaurants, as they can get busy during peak hours.

Are these restaurants child-friendly?

Many of these restaurants are child-friendly, but it is recommended to check with the restaurant before visiting.

Do these restaurants offer gluten-free options?

Yes, many of these restaurants offer gluten-free options. It is recommended to check with the restaurant before visiting.

Are these restaurants open for lunch on weekends?

Many of these restaurants are open for lunch on weekends, but it is recommended to check with the restaurant before visiting.

Do these restaurants offer outdoor seating?

Some of these restaurants offer outdoor seating, but it is recommended to check with the restaurant before visiting.

What is the dress code for these restaurants?

The dress code for these restaurants varies, but it is recommended to dress smart-casual.

Do these restaurants offer private dining?

Yes, some of these restaurants offer private dining. It is recommended to check with the restaurant before visiting.

What is the best way to get to these restaurants?

The best way to get to these restaurants is by public transport or taxi.

What is the busiest time to visit these restaurants?

The busiest time to visit these restaurants is during peak lunch hours, between 12 pm and 2 pm.

What is the best restaurant for a romantic lunch for two?

The Witchery by the Castle is the perfect spot for a romantic lunch for two, with its cozy atmosphere and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of cuisine that will satisfy any craving. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Edinburgh for lunch, you can’t go wrong with our top picks. From traditional Scottish dishes to international favorites, there’s something for everyone. So why not indulge in some mouth-watering food today?

Don’t forget to make a reservation