Insider’s Guide on Where to Eat in Edinburgh
Updated March 2025. Originally published in December 9, 2022.
Between walking up the Royal Mile or wandering through the Grassmarket, you’re definitely going to want to stop for a bite. The good news is that Edinburgh has plenty of great options. Whether you’re after a casual lunch, a cozy coffee shop, or a nice spot for dinner, here are a few places to eat in Edinburgh.
For Scottish cuisine
If you’re looking for traditional Scottish food in Edinburgh, Amber Restaurant in Old Town is a great pick. It’s cozy and has plenty of atmosphere. It has a warm, castle-like vibe. The chefs here have been earning awards for over 20 years, thanks to their creative take on classic Scottish dishes.
One of the highlights? Their whisky selection—over 450 bottles, ranging from familiar favorites to lesser-known gems. You can come for lunch, dinner, or try their Taste of Scotland menu. Dishes include traditional or vegetarian haggis, roast Highland venison, and roasted salmon. And don’t skip dessert—Sticky Toffee Pudding or a selection of Scottish cheeses are perfect to end the meal.
If you’re wondering where to eat in Edinburgh for authentic Scottish food, Amber Restaurant definitely deserves a spot on your list.
For a casual lunch
If you’re after a great lunch in Edinburgh with amazing castle views, The Outsider is a solid choice. It’s casual and relaxed, with a split-level layout and big windows that look out over Edinburgh Castle and those iconic layers of old stone buildings.
The lunch menu has something for everyone.
And if you’re into dessert, don’t skip it here. They’re known for having some pretty standout sweets. For the view alone, The Outsider is worth a visit—but luckily, the food holds up, too.
For pastries & a coffee break
Edinburgh has no shortage of cozy coffee shops. They’re perfect for ducking in from the rain or settling in with a good book and something sweet. A favorite is The Milkman, especially the one at the bottom of Cockburn Street.
The coffee’s fantastic, and the views of Warriston’s Close Stairs give it that classic Edinburgh charm. You’ll usually find a lineup of fresh pastries too, like buttery croissants and cinnamon rolls.
It’s a small space inside, but the window seat with cushions is a great little spot if you can snag it. Otherwise, there are a couple of big tables outside if you’d rather sit in the fresh air.
Since it’s right near Waverley Station, Princes Street Gardens, and the Royal Mile, it’s a great place to start your morning before heading out to explore the city.
For a Michelin-star dinner
Housed in a former warehouse, Timberyard mixes industrial-chic style with a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The space feels warm and cozy with wood-burning stoves, candles, rustic floors, and whitewashed brick walls that give it a stylish but relaxed vibe.
The food is just as thoughtful. They offer a modern British 4-course dinner menu that changes regularly, with vegetarian and vegan options available. There’s also a tasting menu if you’re in the mood to try a bit of everything, plus a solid cocktail list and a well-stocked wine cellar to round things out.
For Indian cuisine
Indian food is a favorite across the UK, so it’s definitely worth making time for while you’re in Edinburgh. One of the best spots in town is Mother India’s Cafe.
This laid-back, two-story restaurant serves Indian-style tapas, flavorful curries, and some seriously good naan. The small plates setup means you can try a bit of everything, which is always a win.
It’s also in a great location, right in the heart of the city, making it an easy and delicious stop during your Edinburgh adventures.
For vegan cafe food
Holy Cow is a cozy vegan spot that’s been around for a while, and for good reason. It’s one of the first fully vegan restaurants in Edinburgh, and it’s still one of the best.
They serve up organic cafe dishes, burgers, sandwiches, smoothies, and a drool-worthy selection of cakes. Their Afternoon Tea is especially worth checking out. The space is colorful and welcoming, and the food is the kind that even non-vegans will love.
If you’re looking for a casual, plant-based meal in Edinburgh, Holy Cow is a solid pick.
For laid-back dinner & drinks
If you’re after some seriously good soul food in a place where you’ll want to hang out for a while, Paradise Palms is it. The vibe is super chill, the cocktails are great, and the food? All plant-based and totally drool-worthy. It’s the kind of spot that’s perfect for gathering with open-minded friends who are down to try something new.
Think buffalo wings, BBQ brisket, southern-fried seitan, and all the classic sides, which are made vegetarian and vegan-friendly. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. Plus, the outdoor seating and fun atmosphere make it even better.
If you’re looking for somewhere in Edinburgh that works for different dietary needs, this place has you covered. The whole menu is vegetarian and vegan, with options for gluten- and nut-free diets too.
For health food
If you’re in the mood for something fresh and healthy, Hula Juice Bar & Café is a great pick. It’s bright, colorful, and filled with leafy plants – basically the kind of place that makes you feel good just walking in.
The menu leans all-in on healthy options, from tropical açaí bowls to vibrant poké bowls. The drinks are just as fresh, with smoothies, juices, and turmeric lattes all on deck.
It’s tucked just off the busy Grassmarket and around the corner from the famously colorful Victoria Street, so it’s a perfect little escape. For fresh, feel-good food in Edinburgh, Hula definitely hits the spot.
