Edinburgh offers a tremendous selection of eating establishments from Michelin starred restaurants like Martin Wishart to self-service vegetarian fare at Henderson’s on Hanover Street. Dining out needn’t be a drama with so many options in Edinburgh.
Restaurants like Howies (of which there are a few in the city) offer excellent local produce served at an affordable price. George Street, the Royal Mile, the Grassmarket and Leith are just some of the areas where you’ll find a range of restaurants to suit all palettes. Dining outside regular lunch and dinner times will make it easier to get the whole family around a table if you haven’t already booked a table. Here are some of our favourites.
Vittoria’s
This family friendly Anglo Italian restaurant has two branches, one on Leith Walk and a newer one close to the action on the George IV Bridge. Attentive waiters, a vast menu and some of the best ice cream in the city.
www.vittoriarestaurant.com
Henderson’s Vegetarian Restaurant
Have it your way at Henderson’s. This restaurant has it all, an organic bakery, a relaxed canteen style basement and a more formal restaurant upstairs. The basement is the most spacious and best for families.
www.hendersonsofedinburgh.co.uk
Harvey Nichols Forth Floor Restaurant
Treat the family to the Forth Floor experience. Past the fashion labels is a family friendly floor of fine dining. Accommodating staff and fantastic views come at a price but you and your family are worth it.
www.harveynichols.com
Bell’s Diner
One of the longest-established restaurants in Edinburgh, Bell's Diner is a Stockbridge institution and favourite among locals for its straightforward menu of burgers, beers and brilliant deserts. (7 St. Stephen St.)
The Outsider
Atrendy city centre restaurant with a starter free menu of delicious dishes. The ambience is cosy and if you’re lucky enough to be seated at the back, the view of the Castle is magical. (15-16 George IV Bridge)
The Dogs
Compact, cheery and serving top-notch food for not very much, this place is a treat. The menu champions local ingredients in dishes that will comfort and excite. (110 Hanover St.)
www.thedogsonline.co.uk
Joseph Pearce’s
Pearce’s (23 Elm Row) is a locals’ favourite on the top of Leith Walk. A laid back Swedish vibe mixes with friendly Scottish hospitality to create one of Edinburgh’s best bars. If you like that you’ll love sister bars, Victoria (265 Leith Walk), Boda (229 Leith Walk) and Sofi’s (65 Henderson St.).
There are also tons of cheap eating options in Edinburgh, which can be discovered by a good walk, and careful consultation of The List Eating and Drinking Guide. The city also hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday on Castle Terrace, 9am - 2pm – check out the range of wholesome, natural produce from the local area. Here are three of our favourites:
Shakespeare for Breakfast
Man cannot live on plays alone and as a staple of the Fringe, the Shakespeare for Breakfast show provides 60 minutes of entertainment and more importantly free coffee and croissants starting your day with a festival freebie.
The Baked Potato Shop
On the top of Cockburn St (pronounced Co-burn, in case you ask for directions!) this star of festival sustenance dishes out massive baked potatoes with delicious vegetarian fillings. These hearty portions will keep you going all day and are incredible value.
The Mosque Kitchen
Behind the Festival Theatre and next to the Edinburgh Central Mosque is a makeshift outdoor canteen serving some of the best curry in Edinburgh. At £4 for a two-course meal this is as jaw dropping as any of the shows you’ll see. During the summer festivals The Pleasance Dome hosts another branch in the venue.
Edinburgh is really spoiled for choice, so why not visit The List website for a full guide to all the eating and drinking establishments in Edinburgh.
