The Best Bars and Edinburgh Restaurants

So Much To Choose From…

If an array of outstanding and award-winning Edinburgh restaurants, cafes and bars is on your menu, you have come to the right place! First off, we promise eating will be a culinary and wonderful delight! Plus, there are options enough to appeal to all tastes, preferences and budgets. And here, we will tell you all about a few of our favourites…

What To Expect

Firstly, you can expect a little history and culture in our older cafes, bars. Or some culture with epic street food during our many festivals and outdoor markets. Or if the the “Edinburgh foodie” scene is up your street, why not partake in a fine dining experience? With so many Michelin star restaurants under our belt, a night with a taster menu and wine to match have not to be missed. But where to start? Pick from a few of our favourites below…

Where To Dine: Night One

As you have just arrived in our wee Scottish City, you may be a little tired from your travels. So, it’s time to settle in for a lovely relaxing evening of wonderful Scottish food. And super hospitality, of course, at MP’s Bistro in the lovely Parliament House Hotel. And, as this hotel and restaurant are based on the iconic Calton Hill, you’re such to be set in a top location. The food here is sublime, simple and Scottish with a European influence. So, you can be sure to find something to suit all. And to fill the hungriest of tummies.

Time To BeWitched By Taste

Well, one of the most famous and cultural locations to eat in Edinburgh has to be The Witchery overlooked by Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy a unique and magical venue situated right below the historic Edinburgh Castle. Yes, the Witchery has been treating diners back to historic times. And has now established itself as an institution of dining in Edinburgh. Even as Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber said; “Is this the prettiest restaurant ever? I think so”. Of all Edinburgh restaurants, it has to be said that The Witchery has a reputation as lasting as the castle it hosts.

Lobster dish set on fancy table outside in gardens

Tall Tastes For Fine Views

As Edinburgh is such a breathtaking city for its views, it seems only right that one should dine overlooking this historic land. And so, now we take you to one of the top Edinburgh restaurants. Top not only for its fine dining menu. But, for its heights too! The Tower Restaurant and Terrace offers outstanding views and fantastic food overlooking the city and castle. And, being a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile, it truly is the perfect place to treat yourself. Admire the magnificent views around you. Delight in some delicious cocktails. On top of the National Museum of Scotland, why not have a quick tour, enjoy the art, and then enjoy an unforgettable meal.

Roof top restaurant in Edinburgh

Where The Locals Go

But where to eat whilst exploring the streets? There are luncheries, cafes and great pubs for good grub all around. If, however, you want to experience some of our local favourites here are but a few.

Cultural Lunches

Walk along the Water of Leith to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Here, in the Cafe Modern One, you are in for a trEAT. From sumptuous and exciting sales. To hearty casseroles. To delicious, if decadent, home baking. This cafe is regularly packed with locals catch up over a delightful bite.

Pop up Bites

Pop along to one of our many open-air markets, such as the Leith or Stockbridge Markets. Here you are sure to grab some delicious bites. Lunch made of the finest local produce, delivered with a smile. Experience some delightful treats. Plus, during the Edinburgh Festival and Christmas Market, the streets are busy with traders selling delicious delights to keep you smiling.

Burger Bites

So, it’s been a busy day walking the streets and absorbing as much of the city as you can. And, inevitably, you’re craving a feast! Or a bit of carb? Well, we have some super burger bars and restaurants in Edinburgh, to way surpass the usual fast food outlets. If its gourmet burger or super vegan options you are looking for, look no further than Bread Meats Bread. But be sure to go in hungry and clear the afternoon. You will be well and truly satisfied afterwards! For something a little tighter on budget, but with the same quality taste, head along to BRGR. Lunch may be on a budget here. But they certainly don’t scrimp on quality. This is a great one for the kids too.

Dram of Delight

If whisky is your thing, the Scotch Malt Whisky Society is for you. Hidden in a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s new town, it offers a private whisky experience that even the most educated of connoisseurs will enjoy. With traditional Scottish scallops being the accompaniment of choice, the Whisky Society provides the most traditional and enjoyable Scottish experience.

Bon Apetit at Bon Vivant

If a classy drink after a scrumptious delight at one of the top Edinburgh restaurants is what you are in search of, look no further than Bon Vivant. With its ever-growing cocktail list, a champagne selection to knock you right off the stool and wine list suitable for the finest of pallets, Bon Vivant is Edinburgh’s finest. If you’re spoiled for choice, they also conduct blind tastings with customers, giving the extra spice of adventure. Definitely worth a visit.

A bar with bottles on it