Introduction
Visitors from all around the world flock to Edinburgh for culture, history, theatre and arts. Not to mention we’ve got some of the best restaurants and bars around!
Looking to discover the best places to eat and drink in Edinburgh? Here are our recommendations for the best restaurants and bars in and around the city…
Best Restaurants In Edinburgh
1. White Horse | Royal Mile
There’s seafood, then there’s White Horse. The delicately prepped dishes showcase the fresh, locally sourced ingredients, plus the passion of the chefs. Wash down their unrivalled selection of oysters with wine, champagne or cocktails from their carefully curated range.
You’ll find this Edinburgh restaurant on the Royal Mile, the heart of the famous Old Town. Head to their website to book.
2. Monteiths | Royal Mile
If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Monteiths is the Edinburgh restaurant for you. This intimate, refined spot for seasonal Scottish cuisine also serves cocktails in a smart traditional setting.
As popular as it is delicious, it’s always a good idea to book ahead at peak times.
3. The Prahna Indian Grill | Corstorphine
In the mood for an Indian? This Edinburgh restaurant is guaranteed to take your breath away with their authentic cuisine with a Scottish twist. Reviewers rave about Prahna’s friendly staff, delicious food and perfect presentation. Well worth a visit whether you’re a local or just visiting Edinburgh!
4. The Radhuni | Loanhead
This award-winning Indian restaurant in Edinburgh has it all: authentic flavours, family legacy and unforgettable dining. The restaurant is open Tuesday-Sunday with lunch options, an extensive, hearty à la carte menu and the incredible value Sunday banquet.
Located in Loanhead, the Radhuni is a perfect choice for those staying just south of the city.
5. Chop House | Waverley Arches
Best place to eat premium steak and drink artisan cocktails in Edinburgh? Undoubtedly it’s Chop House!
This contemporary restaurant is located under the arches, close to Waverley Station in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Perfect for feeding your hunger in between shows at the Edinburgh Fringe.
6. Dantes | Colinton
A traditional, fresh, family run Italian. Think classic Italian dishes, with a modern twist. Plus, if you’re looking for gluten free food in Edinburgh, Dantes have tons of options across their starters, mains and desserts!
Currently open for reservations and takeaway.
7. Paloma | Leith
Paloma is Leith’s new late night taco spot. Hand pressed corn tortillas and sharing plates are on the menu, chased by tequila, mezcal and more. This Leith restaurant is a short stroll from the beautiful shore, and super popular with locals.
8. Parrilla Argentinian Grill | Loanhead
Experience the fascinating mix of cultures that is Argentine cuisine at this Edinburgh restaurant. Ideal for a classic food and wine dining experience in the south of the city.
Parrilla works with some of the best butchers in Scotland and small, sustainable farms with high animal welfare. Their famous beef is dry-aged in a state-of-the-art Himalayan salt chamber – it’s a must try.
Best Bars in Edinburgh
9. The Lucky Liquor Co. | New Town
Lucky Liquor Co. is a cocktail bar and bottle shop in the gorgeous Edinburgh New Town.
Their M.O. is a delightful mix of cocktails, vinyl and pool. The vibes are somewhat exclusive with only 13 spirits in stock and 13 drinks on the menu at any one time, and they switch it up every 13 weeks so it’s well worth a visit while you’re in Edinburgh!
Did you know as well as being on the World’s 50 best restaurants list, The Lucky Liquor Co. also have their own fabulous range of liquors? Explore them here.
10. Nightcap Cocktail Bar | New Town
Fancy a Nightcap? This late-night hidden gem is THE place for expertly crafted cocktails in Edinburgh. The speakeasy setting provides an intimate ambience for sipping premium Scottish whisky and other nightcap style drinks.
Book a table for drinks and enjoy.
11. Skyline Sips | St James Quarter
If it’s Edinburgh views you’re after – Skyline Sips on the rooftop of St James Quarter will not disappoint. This super stylish pop-up bar is a must for drinks in Edinburgh during summer months.
Look out over Calton Hill and the jaw-dropping Edinburgh cityscape as you sip your Chambord.
Skyline Sips is open every day of the summer until 8th September, so book your table now via Stampede!
12. The Holyrood 9a | Holyrood
A warm and cosy bar in the heart of Edinburgh Old Town, featuring local craft ales, gluten free beer on draught and delicious cocktails.
This dog-friendly bar is also a great place to eat in Edinburgh thanks to their mouth-watering burgers and small plates.
13. The Red Squirrel | Lothian Rd.
Looking for somewhere to eat and drink in Edinburgh that’s also dog-friendly? It doesn’t get much better than the Red Squirrel. They offer great beer and a bite to eat, welcoming “friends, cohorts and fellow bon vivants.”
14. Ox184 | Cowgate
Cowgate’s Ox184 is renowned locally for its steaks and grills, craft beer and world whisk(e)y, making it the ideal spot to eat and drink in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
If (when) you find yourself craving a late night juicy steak, Ox184 serve food till 2am Wednesday – Sunday.
15. The Black Grape | Royal Mile
Small plates, wine and good times in the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile!
Enjoy a history soaked stroll through the Old Town before heading in to The Black Grape to indulge in food and drink that showcases the best of Scotland’s larder.
Conclusion
So, that was our round up of the best Edinburgh bars and restaurants to visit during the Edinburgh Fringe. Head to our socials to let us know your favs!
