Where to Eat
The best spots for refueling as you enjoy the city
Dishoom
This restaurant is home to some of the best Indian food we've ever had. They don't take dinner reservations, so prepare to settle in for a long wait - but, trust us, it is well worth your time. Everything from this restaurant is absolutely stellar. Our personal recommendations are the Goan Monkfish Curry, the Charred Lamb Chops, and the Dishoom House Chaat.
Lannan
This bakery isn't in a touristy part of town, but it's still flooded with visitors. Lannan is one of the most well-regarded bakeries in the city, and its morning crowds reflect that. Plan to get in line bright and early if you want to snag one of their divine pastries. Take note that their menu changes on a daily basis, so there's no telling what will be waiting there for you!
Le Bistrot
This cozy little French spot is a little bit hidden, tucked away behind the door of the French Institute, but it's still easily accessible from the Royal Mile. After our own visit, we can say with certainty that everything is wonderful - but, that being said, we highly recommend the lamb shank, the pan-fried duck breast, and the gambas.
Timberyard
This Michelin-starred restaurant is on every local's must-visit list, and it's for good reason. Located in a warehouse dating back to the 19th century, they serve an ever-changing menu of farm-to-table creations. Timberyard would be a great place for a nice dinner with a larger group, considering that they have a private room you can reserve. But it'd also be the perfect date night spot for anyone who wants to have a nice dinner with their partner while they're in town.
Tipo
Tipo is an Italian(-ish) restaurant with a small, curated menu that is perfect every single time. The real star of the show, though, is their weekday £30 three-course/£25 two-course lunch menu. You can walk away from Tipo with a full stomach and a full wallet. And if you decide to have dinner there, then we can't recommend their pork chop enough.
Cafe St Honorė
A small French restaurant in Edinburgh's New Town with a rotating seasonal menu. All ingredients are sourced from local suppliers, meaning that they always have the freshest Scottish produce on hand. This cozy, romantic spot is perfect for a date or a dinner with a small group of friends. When we asked locals what their favorite restaurant was, this was one of their top answers.
Alby's
Boasting two locations, this little shop has a small menu of sandwiches served on thick slices of fresh-baked focaccia bread. No bells, no whistles - just some of the best sandwiches in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Street Food
Are you with a group that can't agree on what to eat? Then this is the place you need to herd everyone towards. With over a dozen independent stalls, Edinburgh Street Food is considered to be the best food hall in the city. You'll be able to choose between everything from Peruvian to Indian to Japanese - and none of it will break the bank.
Chez Jules
This hole-in-the-wall French Bistro is small but extremely well-regarded. They have all the French classics that you could want, and they sweeten the pot with some fantastic lunch deals that can get you a full plate for less than £15. If you want a good meal on a budget, then this is a great option.
Pomelo Cafe
If you need your Asian food fix while you're in the UK, then we'd suggest checking out Pomelo. They have an incredible Chinese-fusion lunch and dinner menu, as well as a family-style brunch on Sundays. We particularly loved their hand-pulled noodles and their fried chicken sandwich.
The Outsider
Known for its beautiful views of the castle, The Outsider is a great option for both lunch and dinner. They've built a menu entirely made up of locally-sourced produce, seafood, and meat to make a fantastic meal for a fair price. Their prices are especially great at lunchtime, and you could get yourself a hot, filling meal for around £10. And don't forget to add on an order of mussels if that's your thing!
The Palmerston
A European-inspired restaurant with a brand new menu every day based on what's in season. They work closely with local farmers to get you the freshest produce possible, and they even have their own on-site butchery to eliminate food waste. And speaking of avoiding waste, they don't want to waste your money either. So, they offer a £26 three-course/£23 two-course set lunch menu. And if that wasn't enough, they also serve house-made pastries throughout the day, and a stellar multi-course dinner every night.
Banh Mi Brothers
A casual Vietnamese sandwich shop just below the castle that's perfect for a quick lunch bite while you're out and about on the town. And if you've never had Banh Mi before, then consider giving it a go. You'll thank yourself later! Just note that this spot is only open on weekdays.
Makars Mash
If you're a meat-and-potatoes person, then this is the spot for you. They serve a range of Scottish comfort food, but their real specialty is mashed potatoes - of all types and flavors - covered in a variety of meats and gravies. It's basically any red-blooded American's (or Scotsman's) dream. Just note that it is extremely popular with the tourists, so you may have to secure a reservation or wait in a queue to be seated.
Society Bar & Kitchen
One of the most popular brunch spots in the city, served every day from 8 am to 3:30 pm. It could be an excellent choice for our guests who want a pick-me-up the morning after the wedding. They also have a great dinner menu, and you could get an evening meal for under £30.
Where to Drink
The best spots for libations and overall merriment
Panda & Sons
A speakeasy-style bar that's become famous for its innovative cocktails and mixology. If you decide to check it out, we highly recommend sitting at the bar to watch the bartenders work their magic.
The Guilford Arms
One of the most popular recommendations for those who want a casual pub rather than a cocktail bar
1820 Rooftop Bar
Johnnie Walker's famous rooftop whiskey bar, complete with a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle
Lady Libertine
A stylish bar with fancy cocktails, fusion dishes, and the occasional DJ set
Sandy Bells
Traditional pub and folk music bar with a menu full of Scottish malt whiskies and cask ales. Features nightly folk music sessions.
The Antiquary
Basement pub with poker nights (Tuesdays), trivia nights (Wednesdays and Sundays), and live folk music (Thursdays)
Bramble
Small, understated, cozy cocktail bar with a menu full of unique drinks. Has been featured on multiple national and international "best cocktail bar" lists.
The Cocktail Geeks
A themed cocktail bar that features a nerdy theme (and menu) that rotates every few months. Past themes include Stranger Things, Studio Ghibli, and Norse mythology.
Where to Find a Spot of Tea (and Coffee)
Tea, coffee, brunch, a pick-me-up...it's all here
The Source
If you're a coffee snob, then you should probably check this place out. They carry some of the most unique coffee in the city, and it's widely considered to be have one of the best roasts around.
Lowdown Coffee
A self-proclaimed "basement brew bar" that serves a rotating menu of coffee sourced from roasters from all around Europe
The Signet Library
This High Tea gives book lovers the opportunity to enjoy their scones amongst the shelves of a beautiful historic library. It's definitely a bit of a splurge, but we'd say it's probably worth it.
Singapore Coffee House
Singapore-style coffee house, featuring Chinese, Indian, Malay, Indonesian, and British flavors. You can find drinks like Kopi and Chai, as well as Singaporean-style breakfast foods.
The Castle Rock Cafe
A tiny, cozy coffee shop tucked inside Makars' Court, right next to the Writer's Museum
The Spence
If you want a more glamorous High Tea while you're in Scotland, then this is the place for you. They also have lunch and dinner, so if you want to eat somewhere a bit more glitzy, then this would be a great choice. For other high-end High Tea options, consider also checking out Palm Court at the Balmoral.
Cairngorm Coffee
Good, solid coffee shop known for roasting their own coffee at their roaster just outside the city. This spot was recommended to us by more than one local!
The Ivy
Looking for a more affordable High Tea? Your best bet is The Ivy. For less than £40, you can get the whole monty, scones and all. This tea also gives tea-haters the option to order coffee instead.
Cult Coffee Roasters
Specialty coffee roasters that are some of the best-rated in the city. They also have a great breakfast menu for anyone who wants to have an egg sandwich with their espresso.
Books n' Cup Cafe
If you care less about coffee quality and more about **vibes** then this would be a great spot for you. Books n' Cup has exactly what it advertises: books and cups of coffee (plus some comfy armchairs for maximum coziness).
Waterstones
Looking for a room with a view? Then check out the cafe in the Waterstones bookshop. Not only could you pick up a new book to enjoy during your coffee break, but you can also enjoy one of the most iconic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Fortitude
Widely considered to have some of the best coffee in the city. A great place to try if you care about the quality of your roast.