Best Places To Eat Near Edinburgh University

Edinburgh University is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Scotland. It is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and food outlets. However, finding the best places to eat near Edinburgh University can be a daunting task, especially for visitors who are unfamiliar with the area. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the best places to eat near Edinburgh University, with detailed explanations and recommendations for each restaurant or cafe.

🍔 Restaurants

Edinburgh is famous for its culinary scene, and there are plenty of restaurants near Edinburgh University that offer a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are some of the best restaurants to check out:

The Tower – Restaurant & Bar

The Tower is a contemporary restaurant that offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline. The menu features a range of Scottish and international dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. The Tower is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Black Ivy

Black Ivy is a stylish restaurant that combines classic British dishes with international flavors. The menu features burgers, steaks, fish and chips, and other comfort food favorites, as well as a range of vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant also has a bar and a beer garden, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a night out.

Borough

Borough is a small, cozy restaurant that serves modern Scottish cuisine. The menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, game, and vegetables. The restaurant also offers a tasting menu, which is a great way to sample different dishes and flavors.

The Basement Bar & Restaurant

The Basement Bar & Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The menu features classic British dishes with a modern twist, as well as a range of cocktails, wines, and beers. The restaurant also hosts live music and comedy events, making it a great spot for a night out.

☕ Cafes

Edinburgh is also known for its thriving cafe culture, with plenty of cozy and welcoming cafes near Edinburgh University. Here are some of the best cafes to visit:

The Elephant House

The Elephant House is a historic cafe that has been serving coffee and food since 1995. It is famous for being the birthplace of Harry Potter, as J.K. Rowling wrote some of the early chapters of the book series in the cafe. The menu features a range of coffee and tea blends, as well as cakes, sandwiches, and soups.

Lovecrumbs

Lovecrumbs is a quirky, vintage-style cafe that serves homemade cakes, pastries, and desserts. The menu changes daily, but you can always find a selection of gluten-free and vegan options. The cafe also serves coffee and tea, as well as a range of alcoholic drinks.

The Milkman

The Milkman is a trendy cafe that offers a range of coffee blends, as well as homemade cakes, sandwiches, and salads. The cafe uses locally sourced ingredients and has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Mary’s Milk Bar

Mary’s Milk Bar is a colorful, retro-style ice cream parlor that serves homemade ice cream, hot chocolate, and coffee. The ice cream flavors change daily, but you can always find classic favorites like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. The parlor also serves vegan and gluten-free options.

🍲 Street Food

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty bite to eat, there are plenty of street food vendors near Edinburgh University that offer a range of flavors and cuisines. Here are some of the best street food options:

The Pitt

The Pitt is a street food market that takes place every Saturday and Sunday in Leith. The market features a range of food trucks and vendors, offering everything from burgers and hot dogs to tacos and falafel. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, making it a great spot for a weekend lunch.

Love Fried Chicken

Love Fried Chicken is a street food vendor that serves crispy, juicy chicken wings and strips. The chicken is cooked to order and served with a range of sauces and dips. The vendor is located in the Old Tolbooth Market, just a short walk from the university.

Baba Budan

Baba Budan is a coffee shop that also serves delicious toasties and grilled sandwiches. The shop has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of seating inside and outside. The menu features classic combinations like ham and cheese, as well as more adventurous options like chorizo and sweet chili sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best restaurants near Edinburgh University?

Some of the best restaurants near Edinburgh University include The Tower – Restaurant & Bar, Black Ivy, Borough, and The Basement Bar & Restaurant. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with a range of cuisines and flavors.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants near Edinburgh University?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants near Edinburgh University, including Holy Cow, Paradise Palms, and Henderson’s Salad Table. These restaurants offer a range of plant-based dishes, as well as vegan and vegetarian options for non-plant eaters.

What are the best cafes near Edinburgh University?

Some of the best cafes near Edinburgh University include The Elephant House, Lovecrumbs, The Milkman, and Mary’s Milk Bar. Each cafe has its own unique style and atmosphere, with a range of coffee blends and homemade desserts.

Is there any street food near Edinburgh University?

Yes, there are several street food vendors near Edinburgh University, including The Pitt, Love Fried Chicken, and Baba Budan. These vendors offer a range of flavors and cuisines, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch.

What is the best time to visit the street food market on The Pitt?

The Pitt street food market takes place every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 10pm. It is best to visit in the afternoon or early evening, as it can get crowded during peak hours. However, it is worth the wait for the delicious food and lively atmosphere.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a quick snack, there is something for everyone near Edinburgh University. We hope this guide has helped you discover some of the best places to eat in the area, and we encourage you to try them all and find your own favorites. Bon appetit!

Disclaimer

This article is based on the author’s personal experiences and opinions, and is intended for informational purposes only. The author is not affiliated with any of the restaurants, cafes, or street food vendors mentioned in the article, and does not guarantee the accuracy or quality of their services or products. Readers are advised to use their own discretion and judgment when visiting these establishments.