May_2026 Looking for where to eat in Edinburgh? Discover the best restaurants in Edinburgh for 2026, from cheap eats and hidden gems to fine dining and local Scottish food.
Finding the best restaurants in Edinburgh can be overwhelming. One minute you’re walking down a medieval close in the Old Town, and the next you’re in a trendy Leith bistro. With so many options, from cozy local spots to Michelin-starred fine dining, where should you actually spend your money?
I’ve spent years eating my way through this city from the grease-stained chippies to the white-tablecloth spots to bring you this ultimate 2026 guide. Whether you want a romantic date night, a cheap family lunch, or a taste of real haggis, I’ve got you covered.
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh:
If you’re in a rush, here are the absolute must-try restaurants in Edinburgh for 2026:
- The Witchery by the Castle: Best for Gothic romance and high-end Scottish dining.
- Dishoom: Best for famous Bombay-style breakfast and vibrant atmosphere.
- Oink: Best for a quick, legendary hog roast roll (perfect cheap eat).
- Timberyard: Best for modern, ingredient-led fine dining in a rustic setting.
- The Scran & Scallie: Best for a “posh” gastropub experience in Stockbridge.
- Makars Gourmet Mash Bar: Best for comfort food (sausage and mash lovers!).
- Fhior: Best for innovative, clean Scottish flavors.
- Howies: Best for affordable, seasonal Scottish menus.
- Ting Thai Caravan: Best for spicy, authentic Thai street food.
- L’Alba D’Oro: Best for world-class fish and chips with a gourmet twist.
Best Restaurants in Edinburgh City Centre
The city centre (New Town and Old Town) is where most visitors start. While there are plenty of “tourist traps,” these spots are the real deal.
`1. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (The Mound):
If you want to feel like you’re getting a hug from a Scottish grandmother, come here. They specialize in local sausages and different types of mash (the horseradish one is a game-changer). It’s right near the Royal Mile, making it a perfect pitstop between sightseeing.
2. Dishoom (St Andrew Square):
Yes, it’s a chain, but the Edinburgh branch is spectacular. The 1920s Bombay cafe vibe fits perfectly in the New Town. Their “Bacon Naan Roll” for breakfast is legendary, and the “Black Daal” for dinner is something you’ll dream about for weeks.
3. Ting Thai Caravan (Teviot Place):
Born from a festival stall, this place is loud, cramped, and serves some of the best Thai food in the UK. Their “Pad Thai” and “Jungle Curry” are authentic and punchy. It’s a favorite for students and foodies alike.
Best Cheap Restaurants in Edinburgh:
Eating in the capital doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find incredible “cheap eats” if you know where to look.
1. Oink (Victoria Street / Canongate):
A simple concept: roast pig, stuffing, and sauce in a roll. You can see the whole roast pig in the window. It’s fresh, filling, and under £10. Get the “Grumpy Hog” size with apple sauce and crackling.
2. The Mosque Kitchen (Potterrow):
For years, this has been the go-to for locals seeking affordable, authentic curry. It’s cafeteria-style, no-frills, and incredibly cheap. The portions are massive, and the flavors are home-cooked and hearty.
3. Civerinos Slice (Old Town):
New York-style pizza by the slice. It’s cool, the music is loud, and the pizza is thin and crispy. Perfect for a quick lunch while wandering the Royal Mile.
Best Fine Dining & Luxury Restaurants:
For a special occasion, Edinburgh’s fine dining scene is world-class. In 2026, the focus is on “New Scottish” cuisine—traditional ingredients used in modern ways.
1. Timberyard (Lady Lawson St):
Located in an old warehouse, Timberyard is all about foraging, butchery, and smoking. It feels very Nordic-Scottish. The tasting menu is an artistic journey through Scotland’s larder. It’s sophisticated but doesn’t feel stuffy.
2. The Kitchin (Leith):
Tom Kitchin’s philosophy is “From Nature to Plate.” This Michelin-starred spot in Leith is an institution. If you want to try Scottish game or seafood prepared with French techniques, this is the place.
3. The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage:
Perched on top of Calton Hill, this restaurant offers the best views in the city. The floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the Firth of Forth. The food is delicate and seasonal, making it a “must-try” for luxury seekers.
Best Local Scottish Restaurants:
You can’t visit Edinburgh without trying the local fare. These spots focus on quality Scottish produce: beef, lamb, seafood, and, of course, haggis.
1. Howies (Victoria Street / Waterloo Place):
Howies is a classic for a reason. They offer great value set menus featuring Scottish salmon, venison, and Cullen Skink (a creamy smoked fish soup). The Victoria Street location is inside a beautiful old building with high ceilings.
2. Wedgwood the Restaurant (Royal Mile):
Paul Wedgwood is a master of Scottish ingredients. This is “fine dining” but in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s one of the few places on the Royal Mile that locals actually frequent.
Must Try: Their pigeon or foraged herb dishes.
Romantic Restaurants in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh is arguably the most romantic city in the UK. If you’re looking to impress a partner, these spots deliver on atmosphere.
1. The Witchery by the Castle:
This is the most famous romantic restaurant in Edinburgh. Think candlelit tables, oak-paneled walls, and velvet tapestries. It’s located right at the gates of the Castle. It’s expensive, but for an anniversary or proposal, it’s unbeatable.
2. Cafe St Honoré (North Thistle St Lane):
Tucked away in a cobbled lane, this feels like a secret Parisian bistro in the heart of the New Town. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh. It’s intimate, quiet, and very charming.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Edinburgh:
Traveling with kids? You need space, a friendly staff, and a menu that doesn’t scare the little ones.
1. The Scran & Scallie (Stockbridge):
This is a gastropub run by Michelin-starred chefs, but it’s incredibly welcoming to families. They have a dedicated kids’ menu and even a small play area. The food is top-tier (try the steak pie!), but the vibe is relaxed.
2. Vittoria on the Walk (Leith Walk):
A legendary Italian family-run restaurant. It’s loud, fun, and the portions of pasta and pizza are huge. They’ve been serving Edinburgh families for generations, and they know how to make kids feel welcome.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Edinburgh:
Want to escape the crowds? Head to these spots that tourists often miss.
1. Noto (Thistle Street):
An independent restaurant inspired by New York dining. It’s small, minimalist, and serves incredible small plates. The “North Sea Crab” with warm butter is a dish people talk about for years.
2. Razzo Pizza Artigianale (Leith):
Forget the fancy pizza places in the centre. This tiny spot in Leith makes some of the best Neapolitan pizza I’ve ever had. It’s casual, authentic, and worth the trek down the Walk.
3. The Palmerston (Haymarket):
A bakery and bistro that focuses on “nose-to-tail” cooking. The menu changes every single day. It’s honest, delicious food served in a beautiful, airy room.
Best Restaurants for Lunch & Dinner:
- Best for Lunch: The Outsider (Old Town). It has a great view of the Castle and a daily-changing lunch menu that is surprisingly affordable.
- Best for Dinner: Six by Nico (New Town). They do a themed 6-course tasting menu that changes every six weeks. It’s high-concept food at a very accessible price point.
Restaurant Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Best For | Price Range | Location |
| Makars Mash Bar | Comfort Food/Haggis | £20–30 PP | Old Town (The Mound) |
| Oink | Quick Cheap Eat | £6.45_10.95PP | Victoria St / Royal Mile |
| The Witchery | Romance/Luxury | £34.50–37.50 PP | Castlehill |
| Dishoom | Breakfast/Indian | £15–25 PP | St Andrew Square |
| The Scran & Scallie | Families/Gastropub | £30–70‧PP | Stockbridge |
| Ting Thai Caravan | Thai Street Food | £15_30 PP | Teviot Place |
| Timberyard | Modern/Fine Dining | £55 _130 PP | Lady Lawson St |
| Howies | Local Scottish Food | £10.95–11.95 PP | Victoria St |
How to Choose the Right Restaurant in Edinburgh
- Budget: Edinburgh can be expensive. For budget meals, stick to the Southside (near the University) or Leith. For luxury, the New Town is your best bet.
- Location: If you’re staying near the Royal Mile, you have plenty of options, but they fill up fast. Stockbridge and Leith are 15-20 minutes away but offer a more local feel.
- Cuisine: Don’t just stick to Scottish food. Edinburgh has world-class Italian (thanks to a historical immigrant community), Thai, and Indian food.
- Reviews: Always check recent Google reviews. In 2026, places change owners or chefs quickly!
Dining Tips for Edinburgh Visitors:
- Book in Advance: For weekends or during the Fringe Festival (August), you need to book popular spots 2–4 weeks in advance.
- Peak Times: Dinner usually peaks at 7:30 PM. If you’re a walk-in, try going at 5:30 PM or after 8:30 PM.
- Tipping Culture: Tipping 10-12% is standard in restaurants. Check your bill; many places now add a “discretionary service charge” automatically. If it’s there, you don’t need to tip extra.
- Try the “Chippy Sauce”: If you get fish and chips, ask for “salt and sauce.” It’s a unique Edinburgh brown sauce/vinegar mix you won’t find in Glasgow or London!
FAQs
What are the best restaurants in Edinburgh?
The “best” depends on your taste, but for overall quality and experience, The Witchery, Dishoom, and Timberyard are consistently ranked at the top for 2026.
Where can I eat cheap in Edinburgh?
For affordable meals, head to Oink for roast pork rolls, The Mosque Kitchen for curry, or Ting Thai Caravan for street food. Most lunch spots also offer cheaper set menus compared to dinner.
Are restaurants expensive in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is one of the more expensive cities in the UK, similar to London in some areas. Expect to pay £15–£25 for a main course in a mid-range restaurant. However, “cheap eats” are still available for under £10.
What food is Edinburgh famous for?
Edinburgh is famous for Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties, Cullen Skink (smoked fish soup), and Fresh Seafood (especially mussels and oysters from the coast). Don’t forget the Deep-Fried Mars Bar for a (very) unhealthy local snack!
Do I need reservations in Edinburgh?
Yes, especially for dinner. While you can find walk-in spots in the Southside or Leith, most city centre restaurants are fully booked on Friday and Saturday nights.
Edinburgh’s food scene in 2026 is more exciting than ever. Whether you’re tucking into a mountain of mash at Makars or enjoying a 10-course tasting menu at Timberyard, there is something for every palate and budget.
If you’re also planning the rest of your trip, check out my guides on Things to do in Edinburgh, Best places to visit in Edinburgh.
Which restaurant are you excited to try first? Let me know in the comments below!