Italian food is far more than just pizza and pasta, it's a way of life. And Edinburgh? It's home to numerous restaurants smashing the classics, as well as those offering unique twists on favourites. From romantic Old Town hotspots whose recipes have been passed down generations to contemporary wine bars that know their way around a lasagne, here are the very best Edinburgh Italian restaurants.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 12th June 2024
Gusto is a stylish, sophisticated restaurant found on George Street, with simple white and blue interiors and a cracking menu of authentic Italian fare. Their extensive offering includes scallop and prawn ravioli, lemon pepper-crusted tuna steak, hand-stretched sourdough pizzas and so much more, with plenty of wines or cocktails to boot. What's more, their brunch with bubbles includes six drinks and a two-course meal for just £37 per person.
Founded in 2013 by Nino Caruso, who dreamed of sharing his love of food and wine, Veeno now boasts locations across the UK, importing bottles from Caruso & Minini, his family vineyard in Sicily. But it's not just about the extensive drinks list here - it's also one of the best Italian restaurantd in Edinburgh city centre. Located on the ever-popular Rose Street, this casual yet intimate space is perfect for date nights clinking glasses over cured meats and cheeseboards. Or if you fancy something a little more substantial? Chow down on freshly prepared pizza (such as the speck e gorgonzola for £12.95), indulgent pasta (the tagliatelle al ragu for £10.95 is a standout) and their tiramisu (£5.50) - just like nonna used to make.
Encompassing the corner of St Andrew's Square, Amarone is a bustling Milanese restaurant that's become quite the local hotspot, decked out in marble flooring and hanging decorations. Delve into a menu of traditional lasagna, roasted chicken with pesto and a whole load of mouthwatering pizzas, with an extensive wine list to pair with your meal.
The clue is in the name at Novapizza, these guys know how to whip up some seriously tasty slices in their charming, traditional eatery. Everything here is 100% vegetarian or vegan, the only Italian restaurant in the city to do so, with toppings like roasted aubergine, plant-based pepperoni and black olives, as well as a great selection of pasta dishes.
One of the most traditional Italian restaurants in Edinburgh, Locanda De Gusti is a laidback spot serving home-style cooking made from Scottish ingredients. All the recipes here are inspired by the owner's aunt and mother in Naples, so you know you're in for some truly authentic fare, ranging from monkfish with cannellini beans to stuffed Sicilian peppers and fresh ravioli.
A popular restaurant and bar found in the Old Town, Civerinos is all about pizza, though they have also got a cracking choice of pasta and small plates too. They've got art deco-inspired interiors, retro light fittings and a bright blue roof, with everything from truffle fries to pumpkin risotto or vegan calzones on the menu. This spot is pretty affordable too, with dishes coming in at £15 or less.
One of the best Italian restaurants in Edinburgh Old Town, Divino Enoteca is a rustic venue with stripped-back walls, colourful seating and wine bottles lining the walls. Perfect for date nights or a classy group meal, you can expect delicious dishes like nduja polenta, pesto risotto and seafood gnocchi, paired with a fantastic choice of classic cocktails.
