Best Christmas Dinner In Edinburgh 2026

• Location: 11-14a West Maitland Street, EH12 5DS
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £36.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: whether you're after a team meal, a festive family celebration or even a feast on the big day, you can find it all here

Looking for the best Christmas Day lunch in Edinburgh? Pairing a traditional pub atmosphere with scrumptious food, The Haymarket really is a fabulous dining destination.

In between bites of turkey accompanied by all the trimmings or a tasty nut roast, sip bubbles, beer or cocktails. Plus, their delicious apple and cinnamon crumble pie is waiting for afterwards.

• Location: 112 Hanover Street, EH2 1DR
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £29 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this place is friendly, welcoming ands affordable - a top pick for hearty pub fare with friends or family

On the hunt for an affordable Christmas dinner in Edinburgh? Hanover Tap's seasonal menu comes in at just £32 for three sumptuous courses, or £29 if you book Monday to Thursday.

Expect classic fare alongside unique creations, including a pizza topped with stuffing, melted brie and caramelised turkey bacon. Plus, the relaxed boozer offers a comfortable setting for you to dine in, ideal for groups of all sizes.

• Location: 55-57 Rose Street, EH2 2NH
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £41.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: from the high-quality cask ales to the festive plates, this city centre brewery knows how to prepare a sumptuous feast

If you can't be bothered to toil around the oven this year, you're in luck - Rose Street Brewery will be pulling out all of the festive stops this winter. Get ready to tantalise your tastebuds with hand-carved turkey breast, sirloin steak or a beautifully prepared nut roast, washed down with fresh cask ales.

There's a lot of history to this place too - it was designed by 23-year old architect James Craig who won a competition back in 1766, and has been a firm favourite among locals ever since.

• Location: 20 Hanover Street, EH2 2QW
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £40 for a feasting-style menu
• Why we recommend: this menu is perfect for sharing and offers something a little different from the usual, and the interiors are truly beautiful as well

Nestled in a charming Grade I-listed building on Hanover Street, Mowgli Edinburgh is a delightful Indian restaurant whose décor features whimsical swings and twinkling fairy lights, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

This Christmas, Mowgli invites you to indulge in their special festive menu, showcasing a selection of delectable street food and refreshing cocktails. For just £40 per person, guests can kick off their meal with a welcome drink, followed by a variety of mouth-watering dishes such as fenugreek kissed fries, gunpowder chicken, and the irresistibly rich Himalayan cheese toasties.

• Location: 113-115 George Street, EH2 4JN
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £35 for two courses, or £39 for three
• Why we recommend: the affordable menu offers a wide variety of bites, and the two-for-one cocktails are a real bonus

Slug and Lettuce is always a crowd-pleaser with its pink furnishings, neon-lit signs and fun tunes. They know how to throw a party here, complete with two-for-one cocktails and scrumptious, affordable eats.

Christmas time is no different, as this joint is satiating your cravings with delights such as a chicken and cranberry burger, or the classic turkey accompanied by stuffing, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings and gravy.

• Location: Rutland Court, 9-13 Shandwick Place, EH2 4RG
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £24.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this is a fun, laid-back restaurant that's putting an Italian spin on festive fare, perfect for something a little different

City centre restaurant ASK Italian is mixing up your usual festive fare with their signature Italian twist. Expect casual decor and a relaxed environment, alongside a menu that really packs a punch.

Their classic Christmas offering includes bruschetta, linguine carbonara and roasted artichoke pizzas, to name just a few dishes. For £5 more, you can upgrade to their premium menu, featuring everything from king prawn tagliatelle to orange panettone pudding.

• Location: 50 Lothian Road, EH3 9BY
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £22.95 for a buffet
• Why we recommend: you'll find some of the very best craft beer around at BrewDog, which pairs nicely with their sumptuous spreads of pizzas and burgers - a nice change from turkey

For those of you sick of roast dinners, BrewDog on Lothian Road is cooking up enticing finger food spreads. The venue features quirky neon signs and industrial-style interiors, as well as countless taps of refreshing craft beer.

So, while you get stuck into the enviable beer selection, nibble on a range of scrumptious pizzas and burgers, with plenty of seasonal ingredients included on both.

• Location: 131-133 High Street, EH1 1SG
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £44.50 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this historic venue is a cosy, relaxed dining destination with plenty of character, and all tastes are catered for in their Christmas menu

An absolute corker of a pub to pop a bottle of fizz or two in, The Mitre has a fantastic selection of grub on the menu this year. This historic venue has been around since 1814, though the site was previously occupied by John Spottiswood, the Bishop of St Andrews.

Throughout the festive season, including on the 25th of December, it's whipping up hand-carved turkey, pan-roasted salmon and a delicious nut roast.

• Location: St James Quarter, St Andrew's Hall, Little King Street, EH1 3AR
• When: from 17th November to 24th December 2026
• Price: from £26.95 for two courses, or £34.95 for three
• Why we recommend: this stunning venue offers everything you could ask for, from botanical decor and drinks to twists on festive flavours

This beautiful bar is swapping botanics or baubles this season. The Botanist is one show-stopping setting for a festive celebration; expect an indulgent menu, live music and themed tipples. Dance the night away and end the year on a high.

Tuck into the likes of pan-fried sea bass, mushroom bourguignon pie or their famous turkey hanging kebab. Afterwards, indulge in a millionaire's brownie.

• Location: 131-133 George Street, EH2 4JS
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £50 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this sophisticated restaurant offers high-end British dining at a reasonable price, perfect for a more elegant meal out during winter

Restaurants open on Christmas Day in Edinburgh? Showing off elegant interiors, including round leather booths and unique light fixtures, Browns Brasserie & Bar is an absolute beauty. This joint is not only slinging out classic roast turkey, but also a moreish root vegetable roast and stellar starters.

They're also offering a killer menu in the leadup to the big day, and whenever you're visiting, you can enjoy luxurious cocktails or Champagne with your meal.

• Location: 26 George IV Bridge, EH1 1EN
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: buffet from £30 per person
• Why we recommend: this is a great choice for laid-back Christmas meals and parties, with a hearty buffet accompanied by a range of delicious German beer

If you're after something a little more casual this Christmas, then check out Frankenstein / Bier Keller in the Old Town. This monster-themed bar promises cracking German beer, killer DJ sets and plenty of dining space, with a private room available too.

Their festive buffet menu comes in at £30 per person, featuring all sorts of seasonal bites. We're talking cranberry-glazed pigs in blankets, smoked salmon and cream cheese rolls, hot honey turkey goujons and more.

• Location: 30-34 Candlemaker Row, EH1 2QE
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £17.50 for a buffet
• Why we recommend: their hearty buffets are a great way to celebrate as a group, with both cheap and more premium options to suit all budgets

Get merry among friends at this winning winter venue. The Greyfriars Bobby isn't just a spot to escape the cold; inside you'll find a brilliant belly-warming menu, featuring a stonking roast, bubbly drinks packages and plenty of mince pies to go round. 

Get stuck into their festive buffet, with three different tiers available. These include everything from salmon and dill fishcakes to mini pigs in blankets and beer-battered mushrooms.

• Location: 4th Floor, 33 Castle Street, EH2 3DN
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £42 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this rooftop spot offers absolutely stunning views of the city, and their Thai menu provides a welcome change from the classic turkey dinners this winter

If you're looking for a Christmas dinner with a twist, Chaophraya is the restaurant for you. The stunning rooftop will have you lapping up sky-high views of the city while chowing down on Thai delicacies, with a series of stunning set menus to choose from - both classic and vegan.

Take a set in their gorgeous main dining room, or book a private space for up to 16 guests. You'll begin by sharing a selection of delicious starters, before diving into the likes of crispy chilli garlic pork belly, roast duck with cinnamon and orange sauce and panang sirloin steaks, finishing off with a white chocolate bombe.

• Location: 47-49 Deanhaugh Street, EH4 1LR
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £41.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: for Stockbridge locals, this is a top choice, promising classic Scottish boozer vibes and a menu that will have you leaving feeling full

Trendy boozer Hector's is inviting you to join it for dinner this Christmas. Over at the stylish watering hole in Stockbridge, you can chow down on a three-course feast or opt for a snazzy buffet spread, which is ideal if you're hosting a big bash.

On the menu, you'll find everything from chargrilled sirloin steak to spiced parsnip and sweet potato soup or shallot and camembert tart tatin, followed by apple and cinnamon crumble pie.

• Location: 4 Alvanley Terrace, EH9 1DU
• When: from 3rd November to December 2026
• Price: from £40 for three courses and a glass of fizz
• Why we recommend: the festive decor here is truly gorgeous, and we all love a glass of prosecco being thrown into the meal

Feeling festive this season? Check out Black Ivy and get stuck into three delicious courses from £40. You'll get to chow down on the likes of lip-smacking nut roasts and hot smoked salmon, finishing off with a banoffee cheesecake.

Their seasonal decor is bound to add an Instagrammable element to your experience, from the 20-foot Christmas tree to Santa's snug and lots of glowing lights.

• Location: 414 St James Quarter, EH1 3AE
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £39.95 for four courses
• Why we recommend: their theatrical cocktails are an exciting addition to any Christmas meal, and the international menu puts a fun twist on festive fare

With sites in St James Quarter and George Street, The Alchemist is one of the top spots for an Edinburgh Christmas lunch. Not only is the food delicious, but their creative cocktails add a fun element to the meal - served bubbling, smoking or even changing colour.

Fill your boots with three enticing courses, where you can snap up international plates like buttermilk turkey with fries and an aromatic jus, as well as a next level chocolate orange brownie.

• Location: 9-11 Hope Street, EH2 4EL
• When: November and December 2025
• Price: from £35 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this is one of the most stunning restaurant bars in the city, so if you're all about aesthetics alongside great food, head here

If you're left wondering where to have Christmas dinner in Edinburgh city centre, this stylish hangout is sure to meet all of your festive needs. Kick off your celebrations with a creative cocktail or two, before diving into the food.

Expect beautiful decor alongside a mouthwatering menu that showcases juicy turkey, seared trout or roasted celeriac, followed by an indulgent cinnamon cheesecake.

• Location: 25 West Register Street, EH2 2AA
• When: 24th November to 24th December 2026
• Price: £38 for three courses
• Why we recommend: there's an impressive drinks menu to order from, and the premium plates come in at a reasonable price too

For fabulous Christmas dining, snap up a table at Lady Libertine. This swish space is whipping up a stellar menu of seasonal eats for you to enjoy in cool Art Deco surrounds. And if that wasn't enough, this joint flaunts a mega drinks list.

Delve into plates of pancetta-rolled turkey breast, ox cheek with roasted garlic and potato puree or roasted beetroot and goat's cheese risotto, followed by classic Christmas puddings.

• Location: 16 George Street, EH2 2PF
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £30 per person for a buffet
• Why we recommend: from festive buffets to afternoon teas and cocktail masterclasses, these guys really know how to spice up your Christmas plans

Le Monde is one impressive Christmas party venue in Edinburgh, with eye-catching Art Deco-style interiors. Offering special set menus and mouthwatering buffets throughout the season, this restaurant showcases global flavours that are sure to wow the whole gang.

Tuck into the likes of cranberry-glazed pigs in blankets, veggie haggis quesadillas and hot honey turkey goujons, or opt for a three-course, sit-down meal instead for £39 each.

• Location: 152-154 Rose Street, EH2 3JD
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £36.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this place is both cosy and buzzing, and their festive desserts are particularly delicious

The Kenilworth has gained quite the reputation as one of the best places for Christmas dinner in Edinburgh. Home to leather booth seating, enchanting window detailing and a bustling atmosphere, it's a great choice for delving into traditional dishes.

On the menu, think turkey, slow-cooked pork belly and much more for mains. And when it comes to dessert? The dark chocolate truffle torte is to-die-for.

• Location: 29-31 George Street, EH2 2PA
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £39.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: they offer both classic Christmas dishes and unique plates featuring festive flavours, and their extensive cocktail menu is a great addition to the meal

For brilliant Christmas lunch deals in Edinburgh, make way for All Bar One on George Street. With three-course meals available from just £39.95, including camembert and chorizo burgers, paupiette of turkey and so much more, you're for a fabulous festive feast.

They serve a wide range of affordable cocktails here too, and you can expect a relaxed but stylish vibe to the bar.

• Location: 71-73 York Place, EH1 3JD
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £41.95 for three courses
• Why we recommend: this warm, welcoming pub is oh-so enticing at Christmastime, and we love the wide range of options on their seasonal menu

Wondering where to have Christmas dinner in Edinburgh? Serving up gorgeous buffet spreads, special set menus and Christmas Day feasts, The Conan Doyle is a cosy and atmospheric pub that's ideal for putting your feet up and having all the hard work done for you.

Wondering what's up for grabs? We're talking festive nut roasts, hand-carved turkey breast with sage and onion stuffing or slow-cooked pork belly.

• Location: 1A Market Street, EH1 1DE
• When: 28th November to 19th December 2026
• Price: £38 for three courses
• Why we recommend: from festive afternoon teas to set menus and themed brunches, there's so much seasonal dining to indulge in here

Brewhemia is decking the halls with fabulously festive decor, making it a supreme space to get stuck into a Christmas lunch. Chow down on quirky but oh-so-delicious bites like Scottish feather blade of beef, roasted celeriac steak or pan-fried turkey schnitzel.

There's plenty more going on here over the festive period too. Think Christmas party bookings, seasonal themed brunches, yuletide afternoon teas and so much more.

• Location: 22-26 Castle Street, EH2 4LS
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £22 for two courses, or £25 for three
• Why we recommend: from classic festive meals to unique burgers and desserts, you can have exactly the kind of Christmas meal you want at Amber Rose

A fabulous, much-loved local in Edinburgh city centre, Amber Rose is coming in hot with its Christmas dinner offering. Whether you fancy a winter wellington or a classic turkey roast dinner, just make sure to keep room for the lineup of lush desserts.

There are also buffets for larger groups, starting from only £19 per person. Think pigs in blankets with cranberry sauce, garlic breaded mushrooms, grilled corn ribs and so much more.

• Location: 9 Advocates Close, EH1 1ND
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £38 for three courses
• Why we recommend: you won't find a more impressive collection of whiskies than the one at this venue, and the historic interiors are pretty cool too

Celebrate Christmas in style over at The Devil's Advocate Bar & Kitchen. This is found in a former Victorian pump house, which features traditional decor like bare brick walls, raw wood and stone. What's more, they offer a collection of over 300 Scottish and global whiskies.

Whether you fancy a festive lunch or dinner, you can dive into a lip-smacking three-course feast for £38, featuring dishes like pan-roasted chicken breast, butternut squash with Brussels sprouts and venison haunch.

• Location: 3-7 West Richmond Street, EH8 9EF
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £22 for three courses, or £19 for two
• Why we recommend: this is a cosy boozer that serves hearty, affordable plates, with a range of scrumptious meat and plant-based options to choose from

When it comes to festive dining, The Southsider keeps things simple and satisfying. This Old Town favourite serves up classic Christmas plates in a relaxed setting, perfect for those who want good food without the fuss.

Expect generous portions of chicken breast topped with smoked streaky bacon, veggie and vegan options that don't feel like an afterthought, and desserts that hit the sweet spot. Pair your meal with a pint or a seasonal cocktail and you've got yourself a proper winter warmer.

• Location: 16 South Andrew Street, EH2 2AU
• When: 19th November to 24th December 2026
• Price: £35 for a sharing feast
• Why we recommend: you get a huge amount of food in this indulgent sharing feast, giving you a chance to try a wide variety of Latin American cuisine

Have a not-so-traditional (but just as delicious) Christmas dinner at Wahaca. The sharing menu is full of Mexican favourites, and costs just £35 per person - available for groups of four or more.

Expect DIY tacos, mouth-watering sides and chocolate-covered churros. Don't forget to wash it down with an obligatory margarita... it's what Santa would want.

• Location: 4 Grassmarket, EH1 2JU
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £37.50 for three courses
• Why we recommend: we love the Scottish flavours across their menu, and the drinks selection here is second-to-none

Cold Town House will have you chomping away on a stunning three-course dinner from £37.50 per person, including slow-cooked beef with black pudding mash and a traditional turkey roast.

That's not all though, as this place usually pairs its feasts with live music and gorgeous views of the castle. Plus, there'll be plenty of prosecco and craft beer on the cards too.

• Location: 141-143 George Street, EH2 4JY
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: from £20 for two courses
• Why we recommend: their tapas-style menu puts a new spin on festive fare, and it's a great budget-friendly choice too

Spice up your seasonal celebrations by snapping up a table at Las Iguanas. The South American-inspired restaurant is slinging out scrumptious dishes, from chicken burgers topped with camembert and pigs in blankets to sizzling fajitas and cinnamon-dusted churros.

You can also opt for a tapas-style sharing feast at £20 per head. To wash it all down? There are a huge variety of exotic-tasting cocktails on offer.

• Location: 4a St Andrews Square, EH2 2BD
• When: November and December 2026
• Price: £45 for three courses
• Why we recommend: from the sustainable steaks to classic turkey dinners, this is a great choice for meat-lovers at Christmas, and we always feel fancy at this stylish spot

Flaunting eye-catching decor that really packs the wow factor, Gaucho is a must-visit this jolly season. Yes, you can find turkey on the menu, but that's not all - get stuck into aubergine Milanese, pumpkin ravioli and juicy steaks, with Christmas pudding to finish, of course.

You won't be short on drinks options here either. They've got an extensive wine list on offer, as well as a selection of refined cocktails.