Where to Eat in Edinburgh?

Looking for the best food in Edinburgh? Whether you're exploring for the first time or coming back for more, Edinburgh is full of flavorful surprises – from hearty Scottish classics to comforting ramen and cheese boards by candlelight.

In this guide, I'm sharing 5 restaurants in Edinburgh that I've personally tried and genuinely recommend. These aren't just places with great food – they have a special atmosphere, a story, or that extra something that makes them memorable.

You'll also find tips on what to eat in Edinburgh,ideas for where to eat in Edinburgh Old Town, and recommendations for birthdays and anniversaries.

Howies Victoria - don’t forget to book ahead

1. Howies Victoria – Classic Scottish Food with a View

Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:

classic Scottish dishes, local ingredients
relaxed dining
location on one of the most photographed streets in Europe
ideal for romantic dinners or celebrating birthdays, anniversaries

Howies Victoria, just a few minutes from Edinburgh Castle, is my go-to spot when I'm in the mood for classic Scottish food done right. The haggis here is honestly one of the best I've had – served with creamy mashed potatoes and neeps (turnips), it's comfort food with a local twist.

It's a fantastic restaurant with delicious food and a warm atmosphere, ideal for celebrating birthdays or anniversaries.

📍Good to know:
The restaurant is situated in a 19th-century school building and takes pride in using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from Scottish farmers and fishers.

👉What to do nearby:
Take a walk through Princes Street Gardens or explore the Castle Esplanade before heading to lunch or dinner.

Location: Old Town
Address: 10-14 Victoria Street, Edinburgh

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2. The Sheep Heid Inn – A Pub with Over 650 Years of History

Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:

cozy pub vibes
traditional meals
historical charm. The Sheep Heid Inn is one of the oldest pubs in Scotland
charming dining area and cozy bar
lunch and weeknight specials

If you want more than just food – a proper atmosphere, a bit of history, and a pint in hand – The Sheep Heid Inn is the place to go. Located in the quaint village of Duddingston, at the base of Arthur's Seat, this is Scotland's oldest pub, dating back to 1360. The inn's historical charm, with its original skittle alley gifted by King James VI, adds a unique element to your dining experience.

Their lamb roast and fish & chips are excellent, and if you're up for it, try a game of vintage Skittles (bowling) in their charming little back room. I also suggest it for celebrating special occasions.

📍Fun fact:
It's said that King James VI gifted the pub its original skittle alley so he could play while visiting nearby Holyrood Palace.

Did you know that The Sheep Heid is the oldest surviving public house in Scotland, as well as one of the oldest restaurants in the world?

👉What to do nearby:
Hike Arthur's Seat in the morning and reward yourself with a hearty lunch afterwards – you've earned it!

Location: near Artur Seat
Address: 43-45 The Causeway, Edinburgh

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3. Makar's Mash Bar – Comfort Food, Scottish Style

Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:

creative Scottish comfort food, hearty portions
mash potato and haggis lovers
food place in Old Town, just off the Royal Mile
reasonably priced, good place to taste haggis and other local dishes

This place turns humble mash into an art form. Makar's Mash Bar, situated right off the Royal Mile, offers comforting dishes such as slow-cooked beef with truffle mash or vegetarian haggis with whisky sauce. The name 'Makar', an old Scots word for poet, reflects the restaurant's approach to food, treating it like poetry — celebrating humble ingredients with creativity and heart.

📍Fun fact:
"Makar" is an old Scots word for poet – and this restaurant treats food like poetry, celebrating humble ingredients with creativity and heart.

👉What to do nearby:
Perfect after visiting St Giles' Cathedral, Camera Obscura, or exploring Edinburgh's Old Town.

Location: Old Town
Address: 9-12 Bank St, Edinburgh

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4. Maki & Ramen – A Taste of Japan in the Heart of Edinburgh

Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:

authentic Asian cuisine in Scotland's capital - ramen, sushi, casual Japanese eats
delicious food, great service
modern vibe and the reasonably price dishes

If you're craving something cosy and slurp-worthy, Maki & Ramen is a must. Their rich, slow-cooked ramen broth warms you right up – especially on a chilly Edinburgh day. They also serve sushi rolls and other Japanese sides, perfect for sharing.

My favorite Maki and Ramen restaurant is in Fountainbridge, though there are several more.

📍Good to know:
Their ramen broth is simmered for up to 10 hours, and the restaurant was started by two friends who trained in Japan before bringing their passion to Edinburgh.

Location: 4 restaurants in different locations in Edinburgh

Address:

80 Nicolson St, Newington, Edinburgh
97-101 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh (my favorite)
37 Leith St, Edinburgh
1 Leith St, Edinburgh

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5. Pickles – Wine, Cheese, and Candlelight

Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:

wanderful cheese and meat platters, local chutneys, patés
relaxed wine bar vibe
charming and cozy atmosphere

Pickles is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret. Small, intimate, and full of charm, it's known for its cheese and charcuterie boards, served with homemade chutneys and fresh local bread. Pair it with a good glass of wine, and you're all set.

📍Good to know:
Pickles makes many of its chutneys in-house and sources ingredients from local Scottish producers. Their menu is intentionally small – they focus on doing a few things exceptionally well.

👉What to do nearby:
Located on Broughton Street, this is a great pre-or post-walk spot near Calton Hill – one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.

✨ Local tip: Make reservations if you can – especially for Pickles and Sheep Heid Inn – they're popular for good reason

Location: New Town
Address: 60 Broughton St, Edinburgh

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