Best Restaurants In Edinburgh

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For a true taste of Scottish dining in the heart of the capital, Cannonball Restaurant & Bar is a standout choice. This award-winning spot, located at the head of the Royal Mile beside Edinburgh Castle, delivers seasonal menus that showcase Scotland's rich larder. From Shetland mussels to Stornoway black pudding and Isle of Mull cheddar, every dish tells a story of provenance and flavour.

The restaurant's modern yet warm interiors, friendly service, and focus on quality ingredients make it a top choice, and whether you're enjoying a leisurely à la carte dinner or sampling their oyster happy hour, Cannonball delivers.

Located on Castle Street in the city centre, TGI Fridays is a top choice for all occasions. From a relaxed meal to break up a long day of shopping to a fun group outing or date night, this is exactly where you want to be for scrumptious American dishes.

Get stuck into juicy bacon cheeseburgers, loaded nachos or Cajun chicken pasta, to nae just a few options. Even better? They offer two-for-one cocktails all day, every day.

Get on down to Lady Libertine in the city centre for cool Art Deco-style interiors, not to mention some seriously mouthwatering munch. Here, you can devour everything from brunches and Sunday roasts to small plates and divine dinner dishes.

When it comes to delicious brunches and dinners, Edinburgh does 'em best and Black Ivy is no exception. You'll get to enjoy everything from beetroot hummus and Scottish steaks to mango salads and much more.

Luckenbooths is a top choice of Edinburgh restaurants in Old Town, thanks to its unique look and love of Scottish produce. Expect to find local ingredients across a mix of modern and traditional dishes, from breakfast through to dinner.

While Angels Share is a boutique hotel, it's also home to one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh city centre. Ideal for dinner dates in slinky surrounds or chilled-out afternoons tucking into fish and chips, this joint is up there as a real dining destination.

Packing in everything from super spicy curries to regional delicacies, Nok's menu takes you on a tour of Asian tastiness. The Thai dining experience is brought to life with street art covered walls, statement lighting and botanical decorations.

In its plush leather booths, you can tuck into the likes of massaman curry and pad Thai or try your tastebuds at chef's specials like Nok Nutty Curry and Khao Soi Short Rib. The drinks list is just as exciting, serving up Thai beer, fine wine and Asian-inspired cocktails.

Looking for Edinburgh restaurants with a view? Chaophraya is as pretty as they come. Head up to its rooftop space, which boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and a beaut outdoor terrace, for plates of scrumptious Thai cuisine, quirky cocktails and, of course, stunning vistas.

Bringing its legendary Neapolitan pizzas to Scotland's capital, Pizza Pilgrims has quickly become one of Edinburgh's most exciting dining destinations.

The menu is packed with standout options like the rich and velvety margherita, the indulgent mushroom and truffle, and the fiery double pepperoni with hot honey, all made using high-quality ingredients. The two-floor space on Rose Street is more than just a restaurant - it's a lively hub for food and entertainment, with an upstairs area designed for private events, live music, and even hands-on pizza-making experiences.

Located within The Scottish National Gallery, The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant is a award-winning eatery that specialises in locally sourced, sustainable Scottish fare. Most of their produce is sourced from the nearby Contini Kitchen Garden, prepared into breakfast, lunch and dinner - as well as afternoon tea.

Get stuck into the likes of Cullen skink, buffalo mozzarella salad or open coronation chicken sandwiches, followed by a selection of homemade cakes. The venue itself is just as enticing, featuring minimalist decor and lots of pretty lights. Plus, the large windows look out over the beautiful gardens outside.

Whether you fancy a bottomless brunch complete with endless cocktails or a delicious dinner, Laila in New Town and Old Town are coming up trumps in our books. For cool restaurants in Edinburgh, this pink venue is decked out with floral decor and ambient lighting.

One thing that BrewDog doesn't do? Ever scrimp on flavour. Taking inspiration from the Deep South, this US-style eatery slings out all kinds of lip-smacking comfort food. Whether you fancy towering burgers or mouthwatering wings, you're sure to get your fill here.

For those seeking the best dining experience in Edinburgh, Contini George Street stands out with its exceptional blend of Italian passion and Scottish quality produce. The restaurant's stunning Florentine-inspired setting perfectly complements a menu that changes daily to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients.

From crispy arancini and fresh burrata starters to rich risottos and perfectly grilled sirloin steak, Contini delivers a memorable culinary journey. Their focus on authenticity and quality, combined with warm hospitality, makes it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.

If you're looking forward casual restaurants in Edinburgh, you can't go wrong with a meal at Le Monde. Cool with a touch of elegance and plates to match, this eatery delivers everything from breakfast through to lunch without ever compromising on style or flavour.

One for the meat lovers, Rio Steakhouse can be found inside the iconic Assembly Rooms at 54 George Street. The elegant space features ornate high ceilings, dark decor and pretty plants, with comfy velvet armchairs to relax in while you dine.

Kick off your meal at the gourmet salad bar, which features all sorts of traditional Brazilian fare, from cured meats to healthy vegetable dishes. You'll then be served by their talented Gaucho chefs, who'll carve Churrasco meat right at your table. And the best part? the meat doesn't stop coming until you're full.

Exciting, enticing and hunger-inciting, The Alchemist is a cool hideout in the city centre that's ideal for date night dinners. While in sultry surrounds, chow down on East Asian-inspired bites, such as bao buns and gyozas, or opt for a next-level burger. Another top-notch venue? There's also a site on George Street.

Situated in New Town, Mowgli is one of our favourite restaurants on this list. Not only does it have a whole host of signature cocktails and snacks, but its Indian cooking reigns supreme. We recommend the lamb chops with turmeric chips or sizzling ginger chicken.

Fronting spiced roasted cauliflower, smoked fish platters and slow cooked rare breed pork belly, The Devil's Advocate Bar & Kitchen is one of our favourite restaurants. Perfect for date night, the venue also has delish cocktails and a top-notch whisky menu.

For a home-cooked, hearty Italian feast in the heart of Edinburgh, head over to Scarpetta on George Street. Its creamy pastas, perfectly cooked pizzas and seafood dishes are just like Nonna used to make.

Its warm, floral interiors only add to the Italian kitchen vibe, while its drinks list of Campari spritz, sgroppino and Amaretto sours will have you shouting bellissimo before you've even had a chance to taste the tiramisu.

Perhaps one of the best Japanese restaurants in Edinburgh, YO! on Princes Street is a must-visit for sushi-lovers. Choose your dishes from the conveyer belt or order direct from the menu to scoff down nigiri, maki, stir-fries and curries in a quirky setting.

One place that you can always rely on for sleek interiors and enticing eats is Browns Brasserie & Bar. Whether you fancy sumptuous steaks, luxurious lobster or even just a good ol' pie, this beaut is ready to fill your tum and then some.

Based on the ever-bustling George IV Bridge, The Outsider's suave decor works in tandem with the menu of fresh flavours and traditional recipes to create a feeling of serious sophistication. Charming and relaxed, it's easily one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh Old Town.

If you haven't got The Spence on your restaurant hot list, then add it now. The brass-adorned, all-day restaurant is located in Gleneagles Townhouse, equipped with a wowing dome roof. The menu features modern Scottish cuisine using local fish and meats, plus there's a brunch club and afternoon tea, too.

Number One has made its way into the Michelin Guide for over a decade, and for good reason. Based inside the world-famous Balmoral Hotel, the charm, style and incredible flavours of this icon firmly place it at the top of the city's culinary circle.

Aizle in Edinburgh offers a modern, ingredient-led tasting menu crafted by renowned chef Stuart Ralston, with dishes that change monthly based on the freshest seasonal produce from Scotland's natural larder. The restaurant combines sleek, minimalist interiors with warm, attentive service, creating an intimate yet contemporary dining atmosphere.

Recognised for its innovation and quality, Aizle has earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including finalist for Fine Dining Experience at the Edinburgh Restaurant Awards and a spot in the Michelin Guide.

Up there as one of the very best restaurants in the city, Fhior is well-known for its delectable four to 10-course tasting menus. Each dish is made with either foraged ingredients or those from the country's highly regarded suppliers, resulting in mouthwatering, eye-pleasing creations.

Timberyard in Edinburgh is a gorgeous, family-run restaurant set in a repurposed warehouse. It doesn't get trendier than this, with its rustic bare-brick walls, intimate candle lighting and wooden tables. Pop by for eye-catching plates of British fare amplified using international flavours.

Located on St James Square you'll find the dazzling dining experience that is Duck & Waffle. Not only are they all-day brunch enthusiasts, but also they whip up incredible cocktails and delicious Sunday roasts. Don't miss out on their signature dish featuring crispy leg confit, fried duck egg drizzled in mustard maple syrup.

The chefs over at The Little Chartroom know what's up in the good grub department, as it cooks up gorgeous dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. From beef rump with haggis pie to cured monkfish accompanied by rhubarb, it makes the most of what Scotland has to offer.

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Waverly Train Station, Elliot's Bar and Restaurant in Apex Waterloo is cooking up delicious food in a very chic setting. Head inside the Georgian building to enjoy classic dishes while listening to live jazz.

Ideal if your date is a big fan of the firewater spirit, Whiski Rooms couples authentic Scottish dishes with traditional drinks; think elevated fish and chips, haggis and neeps, plus so much more. While you tuck in, sip many a dram of the good stuff from international bottles, many of which are rare.

Fronting locations in Roxburgh and the city centre, El Cartel is a great restaurant to check out. Enjoy everything from pork carnitas tacos to street corn with mayo and mango chicken wings. To top it off, pair your meal with a frozen margarita.

This gorgeous hotspot is dedicated to serving the finest, freshest gifts from the ocean. As The White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar sources its ingredients using local suppliers, there won't be dishes quite like these anywhere else.

Dishoom is a firm local favourite. Modelled after the Iranian cafés of Bombay, the interiors are elegant and old fashioned at heart, with retro signs and wooden furnishings perfectly matching the menu of authentic cuisine. Think gunpowder potatoes, keema pau and matter paneer.

Only at The Palmerston would you find crispy pig's head with mustard mayonnaise and pickled celery then fried pumpkin, honey, chilli and Branzi on the menu. This Michelin guide-featured restaurant's ethos surrounds whole animal cooking along with a dedication to showcasing Scottish suppliers, with the result being dishes to die for.

Situated in a Georgian townhouse on the Royal Terrace, Lyla is a refined fine dining restaurant from Michelin-starred Scottish chef Stuart Ralston. From the Krug champagne trolley to the crisp white tablecloths, there are plenty of classy touches here.

This personalised experience promises chefs finishing and serving dishes at the table. Their tasting menus range from five to ten courses and change often, featuring the likes of line-caught fish and organic meats.

Condita is blowing it out of the water with its culinary offering, which has made it one of the only Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh. Settle into the cute, cosy surrounds, where you'll receive a surprise multi-course tasting menu from the highly acclaimed chef, Conor Toomey.

After a buffet restaurant in Edinburgh? Dishing out food from around the world, with all-you-can-eat to boot, COSMO is just the place for the indecisive (and hungry). Tuck into the likes of curries, sushi, duck panacakes, pizza and more for a fixed price.

Tuk Tuk shows its guests what casual Indian dining is all about. Whether you're shovelling down fiery sheesh kebabs, enjoying a rogan josh curry or snacking on some moreish pakoras, this is sure to satiate your cravings for cool restaurants in Edinburgh.

Based across the road from the iconic McEwan Hall, Ting Thai Caravan gives you a taste of East Asia right here in the city. Fronting rustic-chic decor, including bare-brick walls and wooden benches, this is definitely one of the best Thai restaurants in Edinburgh.

A restaurant that never disappoints is Wahaca. A beautiful venue decked out with vibrant colours and indoor plants, it slings out mouthwatering Mexican morsels of deliciousness. So, pop over to munch on tacos, quesadillas, burritos and salads. To wash it down? Margaritas, of course.

Headed up by Michelin-starred chef Stuart Muir, Dine is a brilliant restaurant on Cambridge Street that has won multiple awards over the years. Expect a combination of luxury dining with a relaxed atmosphere, featuring comfy seating, grey brick walls and a fairy light-adorned tree in the centre.

Whether you're dining inside or out on the streetside tables, you can tuck into everything from cured Scottish mackerel to Moroccan slow-cooked lamb shoulder and caramelised onion tarts. Plus, they serve some cracking cocktails too.

The contemporary Chinese restaurant Tattu is one you won't forget in a hurry after dining there. Boasting elegant, floral decor and dark furnishings, this eatery serves up innovative dishes like Shanghai black cod and Mongolian mock beef, along with creative cocktails and exclusive wines.