Edinburgh’s 20 Best Restaurants To Try In 2025
Looking for the best dining experiences in Edinburgh? Here are 20 top restaurants to try in 2025, featuring Michelin-starred spots, local favorites, and hidden gems.
Apr 01, 202548.2K Shares679K Views
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a really old city with lots of cool buildings and interesting stuff to see. But it's also got amazing food! You can find all sorts of places to eat, from fancy restaurants to small, cozy ones.
If you're a big food lover or just want a good meal, Edinburgh has something for you. These 20 restaurants are the best of the best.
1. The Witchery By The Castle
- Cuisine:Fine Dining
- Address:Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NF, UK
Located just a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is one of the city’s most atmospheric and luxurious dining establishments. Stepping into this restaurant feels like entering a lavish, historic retreat, with its rich Gothic décor, candlelit interiors, and dramatic oak paneling.
The opulent setting exudes old-world charm, making it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner or an extravagant celebration. Guests can choose between the grand dining room or the Secret Garden, an enchanting hidden courtyard filled with fairy lights and climbing ivy.
The menu at The Witchery is a tribute to the finest Scottishingredients, featuring indulgent dishes such as hand-dived Orkney scallops, lobster thermidor, and perfectly cooked Angus beef fillet. Many of these dishes draw inspiration from Scottish recipes, ensuring an authentic taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage while adding a refined, contemporary touch.
2. The Kitchin
- Cuisine:French-Scottish Fusion
- Address:Commercial Quay, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6LX, UK
Owned and operated by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, this renowned restaurant in Leith is a celebration of Scotland’s natural larder combined with classical French culinary techniques. The Kitchin follows the philosophy of “from nature to plate,” with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Scottish farmers, fishermen, and foragers.
The elegant yet understated interior allows the food to take center stage, providing a sophisticated dining atmosphere that appeals to food connoisseurs and casual diners alike. Signature dishes at The Kitchin include the famous “rockpool,” a beautifully presented seafood medley served in an actual rockpool-style dish, featuring hand-dived scallops, razor clams, and langoustines.
3. Fhior
- Cuisine:Modern Scottish
- Address:36 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SB, UK
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Fhior, meaning "true" in Gaelic, lives up to its name by offering a dining experience rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and creativity. This modern Scottish restaurant places a strong emphasis on purity of flavor, using locally sourced ingredients in their ever-changing tasting menus.
The restaurant’s minimalist interior, with its neutral tones and contemporary design, reflects the simplicity and elegance of its cuisine, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere for diners. The menu at Fhior is driven by seasonal produce, meaning no two visits are the same. Dishes are crafted with precision, allowing the natural flavors of each ingredient to shine.
Expect beautifully plated courses featuring elements like foraged herbs, fresh seafood, and locally reared meats. With a deep respect for Scottish traditional food, Fhior reinterprets classic flavors in a contemporary way, ensuring that each dish pays homage to Scotland’s rich culinary heritage while offering a fresh and innovative approach.
4. Timberyard
- Cuisine:Modern European
- Address:10 Lady Lawson St, Edinburgh EH3 9DS, UK
Housed in a former warehouse, Timberyard seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary elegance. The restaurant’s industrial-chic design, featuring exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and large communal tables, creates a warm and inviting space for diners.
Family-run and fiercely committed to sustainability, Timberyard sources its ingredients from local farms, foragers, and artisan producers, ensuring that every dish tells a story of provenance and quality. The menu at Timberyard is inspired by nature, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and simple yet refined flavors. Signature dishes include venison tartare with wild herbs, smoked trout with pickled vegetables, and earthy mushroom-based creations.
5. Aizle
- Cuisine:Seasonal Tasting Menus
- Address:107-109 St Leonard’s St, Edinburgh EH8 9QY, UK
Aizle takes the concept of seasonal dining to a new level with its unique approach to menu creation. Instead of offering a fixed menu, the restaurant presents a “harvest board” listing the freshest available ingredients, from which the chef crafts an ever-evolving tasting menu.
This ensures that each visit to Aizle is a new experience, with innovative dishes that showcase the best of local produce in unexpected ways. The intimate and modern setting, with its soft lighting and minimalist décor, allows guests to focus on the artistry of the cuisine. Past menus have featured dishes such as miso-glazed cod, slow-cooked lamb with fermented vegetables, and delicate desserts made with house-fermented ingredients.
6. The Little Chartroom
- Cuisine:Modern Scottish
- Address:30 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN, UK
Small in size but big on flavor, The Little Chartroom is a cozy, intimate restaurant that has gained widespread acclaim for its inventive take on Scottish cuisine. Chef Roberta Hall-McCarron draws inspiration from classic Scottish flavors and transforms them with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that are both nostalgic and innovative.
The restaurant’s nautical-themed interior, with its deep blue walls and wooden accents, adds to its charm and character. The ever-evolving menu highlights Scotland’s rich natural bounty, with dishes like mackerel with kohlrabi broth, venison with smoked beetroot, and perfectly cooked scallops with seasonal accompaniments.
7. The Gardener’s Cottage
- Cuisine:Farm-to-Table
- Address:Royal Terrace Gardens, London Rd, Edinburgh EH7 5DX, UK
Set in a quaint 19th-century cottage within Royal Terrace Gardens, The Gardener’s Cottage is a truly unique dining destination that emphasizes sustainability, seasonality, and communal dining. With its rustic charm, wooden communal tables, and cozy interior, the restaurant creates an intimate atmosphere that makes guests feel as though they are dining in a friend’s home.
The experience is centered around fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which come from their garden or nearby Scottish farms. The menu at The Gardener’s Cottage changes frequently, reflecting the best of what is available seasonally. Guests can enjoy dishes like smoked haddock with garden vegetables, slow-roasted lamb with foraged herbs, and homemade sourdough bread served with creamy Scottish butter.
8. Forage & Chatter
- Cuisine:Scottish Contemporary
- Address:1A Alva St, Edinburgh EH2 4PH, UK
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Edinburgh’s West End, Forage & Chatter is a hidden gem that lives up to its name. Specializing in locally foraged ingredients and showcasing Scotland’s finest produce, this restaurant is dedicated to crafting dishes with depth and creativity. The intimate dining space, featuring soft lighting and rustic wooden accents, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed yet refined meal.
The service is warm and personal, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and well cared for. The menu highlights bold flavors and expert cooking techniques, with dishes such as wild venison with juniper jus, Scottish crab with citrus dressing, and tender lamb paired with seasonal root vegetables. Freshly picked herbs and wildflowers add an extra layer of freshness to each plate, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
9. Kanpai Sushi
- Cuisine:Japanese
- Address:8-10 Grindlay St, Edinburgh EH3 9AS, UK
For sushi enthusiasts, Kanpai is the ultimate destination in Edinburgh. Located near the city’s cultural district, this sleek and stylish Japanese restaurant is known for its expertly crafted sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese dishes. The modern, minimalist décor and dimly lit ambiance create a sophisticated setting that makes for an exceptional dining experience.
The sushi here is meticulously prepared using the freshest seafood, with options like buttery salmon sashimi, delicate yellowtail nigiri, and specialty rolls filled with a combination of flavors. Beyond sushi, Kanpai also offers hot dishes such as grilled miso-marinated black cod, crispy tempura, and fragrant ramen bowls.
10. BABA
- Cuisine:Mediterranean/Levantine
- Address:130 George St, Edinburgh EH2 4JZ, UK
BABA brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean and the Levant to the heart of Edinburgh, offering an exciting menu filled with bold spices, smoky flavors, and fresh ingredients. The restaurant’s stylish interior, featuring deep jewel tones, plush seating, and striking Middle Eastern artwork, creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
With an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work, BABA delivers a sensory dining experience that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The menu is designed for sharing, featuring mezze dishes such as creamy smoked hummus, charred aubergine with pomegranate, and fluffy pita bread fresh from the oven. Larger plates include succulent lamb shawarma, harissa-spiced grilled chicken, and slow-roasted cauliflower with tahini dressing.
11. Hawksmoor
- Cuisine:Steakhouse & Seafood
- Address:23 W Register St, Edinburgh EH2 2AA, UK
Hawksmoor is a must-visit for meat lovers in Edinburgh, offering a dining experience that combines top-quality steak with a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Known for sourcing their beef from British farms, the restaurant specializes in dry-aged, charcoal-grilled cuts that are cooked to perfection. From a juicy ribeye to a decadent chateaubriand, every steak is full of rich flavor and paired with a selection of indulgent sides like triple-cooked chips and creamed spinach.
The dimly lit, sophisticated interior enhances the dining experience, making it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Beyond steak, Hawksmoor also excels in seafood, featuring fresh oysters, roasted scallops, and a seafood platter packed with the finest catches of the day. Their Sunday roast, featuring slow-roasted beef served with crispy Yorkshire puddings and bone marrow gravy, is a local favorite.
12. Civerinos Slice
- Cuisine:Pizza & Casual Dining
- Address:Hunter Square, Edinburgh EH1 1QW, UK
For pizza lovers, Civerinos Slice is the go-to spot for oversized, New York-style slices loaded with bold and creative toppings. This lively eatery is known for its relaxed, street-food-inspired vibe, featuring graffiti-style artwork and an open kitchen where guests can watch the pizzaiolos at work. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a full pizza feast, the quality of the dough fermented for 72 hours to achieve the perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness ensures an unforgettable slice.
Signature pizzas include the indulgent “White Truffle” with mushrooms, parmesan, and truffle oil, as well as the spicy “Meat Sweats” topped with nduja sausage and pepperoni. If you're in the mood for something unique, their rotating specials introduce bold flavor combinations that keep customers coming back.
13. The Stockbridge Restaurant
- Cuisine:Seasonal Scottish Cuisine
- Address:54 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AL, UK
Located in the charming Stockbridge neighborhood, The Stockbridge Restaurantis a hidden gem known for its intimate atmosphere and ever-evolving menu. The cozy interior, with soft candlelight and elegant décor, creates a warm and inviting dining space perfect for a romantic evening or a refined culinary experience.
The restaurant takes pride in using the best seasonal produce from local Scottish suppliers, ensuring each dish is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The menu frequently changes to highlight the best of the season, but diners can expect expertly crafted dishes like venison stew with juniper berries, pan-seared salmon with a rich beurre blanc, and slow-braised lamb shank served with root vegetables. Desserts are just as enticing, with options like traditional cranachan or a decadent chocolate tart.
14. El Cartel Mexicana
- Cuisine:Mexican Street Food
- Address:Thistle St., Edinburgh EH2 1EN, UK
Bringing a vibrant slice of Mexico to Edinburgh, El Cartel Mexicana is a lively eatery that specializes in bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and an unbeatable selection of mezcal cocktails. With colorful décor, a buzzing atmosphere, and an open-plan kitchen, this restaurant feels like an authentic taqueria, drawing in locals and visitors eager for a taste of real Mexican street food.
The menu is designed for sharing, making it perfect for groups looking to enjoy a fun and flavorful dining experience. The tacos are the stars of the show, with must-try options like pork belly tacos with pineapple salsa, braised beef cheek tacos, and Baja-style fish tacos with a crispy batter. Alongside the tacos, diners can enjoy homemade guacamole, smoky esquites (Mexican street corn), and tangy ceviche.
15. Leith Chop House
- Cuisine:Steakhouse
- Address:Constitution St., Leith EH6 6RS
Located in the heart of Leith, the Leith Chop House is a stylish, modern steakhouse dedicated to serving top-quality beef with exceptional attention to detail. Specializing in dry-aged Scottish beef, this restaurant takes pride in sourcing its meat locally and aging it in-house to enhance its flavor and tenderness. With a sleek, industrial-style interior and a focus on great service, the Leith Chop House offers a contemporary take on the classic steakhouse experience.
The menu features a variety of expertly cooked cuts, from tender fillet steaks to flavorful ribeyes, all cooked over an open-flame grill for the perfect sear. To elevate the meal, diners can pair their steak with rich sides like bone marrow mac and cheese or their famous dripping-cooked chips. Beyond steak, the menu also includes indulgent options like slow-cooked short ribs and dry-aged burgers.
16. Noto
- Cuisine:Asian-Inspired Small Plates
- Address:47A Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DY, UK
Noto is a contemporary dining spot that embraces the art of small plates with a strong influence from East Asian flavors. Founded by chef Stuart Ralston, this Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant offers a unique fusion of Scottish produce and Asian-inspired techniques, creating dishes that are both innovative and full of depth. The minimalist yet cozy interior complements the refined approach to dining, making it a favorite for those who appreciate high-quality, shareable plates.
Diners can expect a rotating menu that includes standout dishes like beef tartare with black garlic potato rösti, Arbroath smokie croquettes, and hand-dived Orkney scallops with yuzu butter. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the best available ingredients, ensuring each visit is a new experience. Pair your meal with one of Noto’s carefully selected natural wines or sake offerings for a truly exceptional dining experience.
17. Ondine Oyster & Grill
- Cuisine:Seafood
- Address:2 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD, UK
For seafood lovers, Ondine Oyster & Grill is the ultimate destination in Edinburgh. Situated near the Royal Mile, this elegant yet contemporary restaurant is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and the freshest seafood sourced from Scotland’s pristine waters. With floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning city views, Ondine offers an upscale dining experience where the seafood truly shines.
The menu showcases an exquisite selection of oysters, which can be enjoyed freshly shucked or grilled with indulgent toppings like garlic butter and parmesan. Beyond oysters, signature dishes include hand-dived scallops, grilled langoustines, and a beautifully cooked whole lemon sole. For those seeking a heartier meal, the seafood platters provide a generous mix of the best daily catches.
18. Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill
- Cuisine:Brazilian Steakhouse
- Address:102 George St, Edinburgh EH2 3DF, UK
Bringing the spirit of Brazil to Edinburgh, Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill offers a traditional churrasco dining experience where guests can enjoy an endless selection of expertly grilled meats carved tableside. Inspired by the Rodizio-style restaurants of Brazil, Fazenda provides a lively and interactive dining atmosphere that’s perfect for meat lovers.
With stylish décor featuring warm lighting and plush seating, the restaurant delivers both comfort and elegance. Diners are given a card to signal when they’re ready for more cuts of meat, with options including picanha (Brazilian-style rump steak), lamb cutlets, pork belly, and slow-cooked beef ribs. The experience is complemented by a gourmet salad bar, featuring a variety of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and Brazilian side dishes. To complete the meal, a selection of South American wines and caipirinhas add to the authenticity.
19. Number One At The Balmoral Hotel
- Cuisine:Fine Dining (Michelin-Starred)
- Address:1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, UK
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Located within the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Number One is Edinburgh’s premier Michelin-starred restaurant, offering a luxurious fine-dining experience. The restaurant’s sophisticated setting, featuring plush red furnishings and contemporary Scottish artwork, sets the stage for an evening of culinary excellence. Led by a team of highly skilled chefs, Number One is known for its meticulously crafted tasting menus that showcase the finest Scottish ingredients with modern European techniques.
Each dish is a masterpiece, with highlights including Orkney scallops with smoked butter, Highland wagyu beef, and hand-dived Isle of Skye lobster. Every element on the plate is thoughtfully paired to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The experience is further enhanced by an exceptional wine list curated by expert sommeliers. Just as Scottish gamescelebrate tradition, skill, and craftsmanship, Number One embraces Scotland’s culinary heritage by blending time-honored flavors with innovative techniques, making every dining experience truly special.
20. Scran & Scallie
Cuisine:Gastropub
Address:1 Comely Bank Rd, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1DT, UK
Owned by renowned Michelin-starred chefs Tom Kitchin and Dominic Jack, Scran & Scallie brings a refined approach to traditional Scottish comfort food. Situated in the charming Stockbridge neighborhood, this gastropub seamlessly blends a cozy pub atmosphere with top-tier culinary craftsmanship. The rustic-chic interiors, featuring wooden beams and tartan accents, create a warm and inviting setting that makes diners feel right at home.
The menu is packed with hearty, well-executed dishes such as Highland wagyu burgers, fish and chips made with fresh North Sea haddock, and a rich, slow-cooked beef and ale pie. Seasonal ingredients take center stage, ensuring the freshest flavors in every bite. Alongside the food, Scran & Scallie offers an impressive selection of Scottish ales, craft beers, and expertly mixed cocktails.
People Also Ask
Is Edinburgh A Foodie City?
Edinburgh has beaten London to the title of the most exciting food destination in the UK from a prestigious guide. The Scottish capital scooped the top award ahead of The Good Food Guide's annual awards on Monday.
What Time Do People Eat In Edinburgh?
When to Have Lunch and Dinner in Edinburgh? In Edinburgh, the opening times of restaurants and fast-food places are very similar to other North European countries. Lunch is normally served between 12 noon and 2 pm and dinner begins at 6 pm and finishes at 8:30 - 9 pm.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Edinburgh For Food Lovers?
The summer festival season (August) offers pop-up food events alongside the city’s renowned restaurants.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh has all kinds of food, just like its long history. You can find quick snacks or really fancy meals. No matter where you are, in the old part of town or the lively Leith area, these restaurants will give you amazing meals that show you what Edinburgh is all about.
Jump to
1. The Witchery By The Castle
2. The Kitchin
3. Fhior
4. Timberyard
5. Aizle
6. The Little Chartroom
7. The Gardener’s Cottage
8. Forage & Chatter
9. Kanpai Sushi
10. BABA
11. Hawksmoor
12. Civerinos Slice
13. The Stockbridge Restaurant
14. El Cartel Mexicana
15. Leith Chop House
16. Noto
17. Ondine Oyster & Grill
18. Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill
19. Number One At The Balmoral Hotel
20. Scran & Scallie
People Also Ask
Final Thoughts
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