Best Restaurants In Edinburgh Italian

Are you searching for the best restaurants in Edinburgh Italian? Look no further! Edinburgh is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the country. From traditional trattorias to modern bistros, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top Italian restaurants in Edinburgh and what makes them stand out.

🍝Cucina

Overview

Cucina is a contemporary Italian restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh’s city center. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen and bar area. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, using the finest ingredients sourced from Italy and Scotland.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout dishes at Cucina include their hand-made pasta dishes, such as the spinach and ricotta tortellini with sage butter. Their wood-fired pizzas are also a must-try, with toppings like nduja sausage and roasted red peppers. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as their tiramisu is one of the best in town.

Reservation Policy

Cucina accepts reservations online or by phone. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

🍝Tutto Matto

Overview

Tutto Matto is a family-run Italian restaurant located in the vibrant Leith area of Edinburgh. The restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly service and a homely feel. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout dishes at Tutto Matto include their homemade gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce and their slow-cooked beef ragù. They also offer a range of antipasti and sharing platters, perfect for groups. Don’t forget to try their house-made limoncello for a refreshing end to your meal.

Reservation Policy

Tutto Matto accepts reservations online or by phone. Walk-ins are also welcome, but it’s recommended to book in advance for weekend evenings.

🍝Locanda De Gusti

Overview

Locanda De Gusti is a cozy Italian restaurant located in the up-and-coming Broughton area of Edinburgh. The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife team who are passionate about traditional Italian cooking. The menu features classic dishes from all over Italy, using locally sourced ingredients.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout dishes at Locanda De Gusti include their slow-cooked veal ossobuco with saffron risotto and their homemade tagliatelle with wild mushroom sauce. They also offer a range of Italian wines to pair with your meal.

Reservation Policy

Locanda De Gusti accepts reservations online or by phone. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

🍝La Favorita

Overview

La Favorita is a popular Italian pizzeria located in the fashionable Leith Shore area of Edinburgh. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. The interior is bright and modern, with a bustling atmosphere.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout pizzas at La Favorita include their margherita with buffalo mozzarella and their spicy salami and chilli pizza. They also offer a range of gluten-free and vegan options. Don’t forget to try one of their homemade gelatos for dessert.

Reservation Policy

La Favorita accepts reservations online or by phone. Walk-ins are also welcome, but it’s recommended to book in advance for weekend evenings.

🍝Vittoria

Overview

Vittoria is a family-run Italian restaurant located in the lively Leith Walk area of Edinburgh. The restaurant has been serving up classic Italian dishes for over 40 years, and is a local favorite. The interior is cozy and traditional, with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout dishes at Vittoria include their spaghetti carbonara and their seafood linguine. They also offer a range of antipasti and sharing platters, perfect for groups. Don’t forget to try their house-made limoncello or tiramisu for dessert.

Reservation Policy

Vittoria accepts reservations online or by phone. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

🍝Howies

Overview

Howies is a Scottish-Italian restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The restaurant is known for its innovative dishes, combining Scottish and Italian flavors. The interior is rustic and cozy, with exposed stone walls and wooden beams.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout dishes at Howies include their haggis and sausage risotto and their roasted venison with juniper berry sauce. They also offer a range of Scottish and Italian cheeses for dessert.

Reservation Policy

Howies accepts reservations online or by phone. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

🍝Pizzeria 1926

Overview

Pizzeria 1926 is a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria located in Edinburgh’s West End. The restaurant is run by a team of Italian chefs who are passionate about authentic pizza-making. The interior is cozy and rustic, with exposed brick walls and wooden tables.

Menu Highlights

Some of the standout pizzas at Pizzeria 1926 include their margherita with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella and their diavola with spicy salami and nduja. They also offer a range of Italian wines and craft beers to pair with your pizza.

Reservation Policy

Pizzeria 1926 accepts reservations online or by phone. Walk-ins are also welcome, but it’s recommended to book in advance for weekend evenings.

🍝FAQs

What is Italian cuisine?

Italian cuisine is a style of cooking that originated in Italy and is characterized by its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, simple preparations, and bold flavors. Italian cuisine is known for its pasta dishes, pizza, and antipasti.

What is the difference between Italian and Scottish cuisine?

Italian cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, simple ingredients and bold flavors. Scottish cuisine, on the other hand, is known for its hearty, warming dishes made with locally sourced ingredients like haggis and seafood.

What should I wear to an Italian restaurant?

It’s recommended to dress smart-casual when dining at an Italian restaurant. Avoid wearing t-shirts and shorts, and opt for smart trousers or a dress instead.

Do Italian restaurants offer vegetarian options?

Yes, many Italian restaurants offer vegetarian options on their menu. These may include dishes like pasta with tomato sauce or vegetarian pizzas.

What is the best Italian restaurant for a romantic dinner?

Cucina and Locanda De Gusti are both great options for a romantic dinner, with their cozy atmosphere and intimate seating.

Can I bring my own wine to an Italian restaurant?

Some Italian restaurants may allow you to bring your own wine, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

What is the best Italian restaurant for families?

Tutto Matto and Vittoria are both great options for families, with their warm and welcoming atmosphere and range of dishes to suit all tastes.

What is the average price for a meal at an Italian restaurant in Edinburgh?

The average price for a meal at an Italian restaurant in Edinburgh is around £30 per person, including drinks.

What is the best Italian restaurant for a business lunch?

Cucina and Howies are both great options for a business lunch, with their central locations and range of dishes to suit all tastes.

Can Italian restaurants cater to dietary requirements?

Yes, many Italian restaurants can cater to dietary requirements like gluten-free or vegan options. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

What is the best Italian restaurant for a group celebration?

Tutto Matto and La Favorita are both great options for a group celebration, with their lively atmosphere and range of sharing platters and pizzas.

Do Italian restaurants serve breakfast?

Some Italian restaurants may serve breakfast, but it’s less common than lunch or dinner.

What is the best Italian restaurant for a solo diner?

Pizzeria 1926 is a great option for a solo diner, with its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

What type of wine should I order at an Italian restaurant?