Britannia Spice

Britannia Spice offers an award-winning culinary journey through Indian, Bangladeshi, Nepali and Thai flavours. Housed in a former whisky bond on Leith's docks, its nautical-themed interior, complete with ship's wheels and smartly uniformed staff, pays homage to the nearby Royal Yacht Britannia. The modern setting, paired with its picturesque waterside location, creates a memorable backdrop for a diverse and flavourful meal.

• Web:

  www.thebritanniaspice.co.uk

• E-mail:

  info@thebritanniaspice.co.uk

• Address:

  150 Commercial Street, Leith, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 555 2255

• Opening hours:

  Tue–Sun 4pm–10:30pm, Mon closed

Cafe Royal

Cafe Royal is a stunningly preserved Victorian bar and restaurant that has operated since 1863. Stepping inside is like entering a museum of 19th-century grandeur, famed for its series of large, Royal Doulton tile portraits depicting famous inventors like James Watt and Benjamin Franklin. The atmosphere is one of timeless elegance, from the gilded ceilings and chandeliers to stained-glass windows illustrating Scottish sports. As Scotland's oldest oyster bar, its menu is a celebration of classic Scottish fare, featuring fresh seafood platters, haggis, and an extensive selection of cask ales and malt whiskies.

• Web:

  www.caferoyaledinburgh.com

• Address:

  19 West Register Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 556 1884

Contini George Street

Set in one of Edinburgh’s most stunning rooms — a grand, columned Georgian hall — Contini is a family-run restaurant that offers an authentic modern Italian dining experience. With a commitment to quality, the restaurant sources its produce directly from the markets in Italy, ensuring the freshest ingredients for its ever-evolving monthly menus. Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade pasta and mouthwatering Puglian focaccia, made fresh each morning. Make sure to save room for some tiramisu!

• Web:

  www.contini.com

• Address:

  103 George Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 330 164 9385

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 9am–11pm, Sat 10am–11:30pm, Sun 10am–10pm

Kanpai Sushi

Kanpai offers an authentic taste of Japan, from delicate sushi to crisp tempura. The experience is tailored to your preference: watch the chefs at work from the kitchen counter, join the buzz of the main dining room, or secure a private space for your party. True to its name — 'Kanpai' is the Japanese equivalent of 'cheers' — the atmosphere is consistently warm and convivial.

• Web:

  www.kanpaisushiedinburgh.co.uk

• Address:

  8-10 Grindlay Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 228 1602

• Opening hours:

  Tue–Sat noon–2:15pm / 5pm–10:30pm; Sun & Mon closed

Locanda De Gusti

Locanda de Gusti embraces the essence of Naples-inspired cuisine, offering a delightful array of fresh artisan Southern Italian dishes. From exquisite seafood to handmade pasta, their menu showcases the best ingredients sourced from both Italy and Scotland. Locanda De Gusti's commitment to quality is unwavering, as everything is meticulously prepared from scratch each day, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

• Web:

  www.locandadegusti.com

• E-mail:

  locandadegusti@gmail.com

• Address:

  102 Dalry Road, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 346 8800

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Wed 5:30pm–10pm; Thu & Fri 12:30pm–3:30pm / 5:30pm–10pm; Sat 12:30pm–10pm, Sun closed

Mussel Inn

Located right in the heart of the city, the Mussel Inn is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking a lively and informal bistro experience. From indulgent seafood chowder and succulent king prawns to kilo pots of mussels, scallops, oysters, shellfish pasta, and sea bass, the Mussel Inn is a treasure trove of classic seafood dishes that will delight your taste buds.

• Web:

  www.mussel-inn.com/seafood-restaurant-edinburgh

• Address:

  61-65 Rose Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 225 5979

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri noon–2:30pm / 5pm–9:30pm; Sat & Sun noon–9:30pm

Bailie Bar

A beloved local institution, Bailie Bar is a traditional basement pub known for its authentic atmosphere and commitment to Scottish brewers, with a focus on cask ale. The classic pub menu features well-executed staples like fish and chips, burgers and haggis, all served by exceptionally friendly staff. Its popularity with locals adds to the genuine, welcoming vibe. Alongside a solid whisky selection, the pub is a lively venue for watching sports and hosts regular live folk sessions, making it a dependable and characterful spot for a pint and a meal.

• Web:

  www.thebailiebar.com

• Address:

  2-4 Saint Stephen Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 225 4673

• Opening hours:

  Daily 11am–midnight

Bennets Bar

A steadfast relic of old Edinburgh, Bennets Bar has been a fixture since 1839, retaining the opulent interior from its 1906 refit. It’s the real deal, with stained-glass windows, ornate tiling, and a gleaming wooden bar complete with a brass water tap for diluting whisky. Its most charming feature is the original "snug" — a small, sequestered room with its own service hatch, historically reserved for women and those wishing to drink discreetly. While the atmosphere is the main draw, the pub offers a solid Scottish menu and an impressive selection of over 150 malt whiskies. Located next to the King's Theatre, it’s a favourite for a pre-show pint but remains a genuine local haunt, offering a rare, unpretentious glimpse into the city’s social history.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/bennetsbar

• Address:

  8 Leven Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 229 5143

Dragonfly

If cocktails are your cup of tea, then you must visit the Dragonfly. This elegant 20s-style cocktail bar and lounge is a paradise for those who appreciate the art of mixology. With an extensive cocktail menu that showcases a wide range of spirits expertly combined with fresh juices and fruit-infused alcohol, every sip is a delightful journey for the taste buds. The Dragonfly also hosts weekend DJ sessions, infusing the atmosphere with vibrant energy.

• Web:

  www.dragonflycocktailbar.com

• E-mail:

  info@dragonflycocktailbar.com

• Address:

  52 West Port, Old Town, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 228 4543

Frankenstein

Housed within a Gothic 19th-century church, Frankenstein is a unique themed pub featuring 3 bars over 3 levels, an eclectic menu, and a monster show. The bar's interior is meticulously designed to resemble Frankenstein's laboratory, complete with a body on a gurney awaiting the infusion of lightning. Adding to the ambience, the original film adaptation is screened, bringing Mary Shelley's literary masterpiece to life.

• Web:

  www.frankensteinedinburgh.co.uk

• Address:

  26 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 622 1818

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu noon–midnight, Fri & Sat noon–1am

Ghillie Dhu

For a truly Scottish experience, treat yourself to dinner and a pint before enjoying a lively ceilidh (a Gaelic gathering with folk music and dancing) at this traditional yet strikingly modern Scottish pub and live entertainment venue. Look out for the surprising architecture, live music many nights of the week, and the special events on weekends in the auditorium.

• Web:

  www.ghillie-dhu.co.uk

• E-mail:

  info@ghillie-dhu.co.uk

• Address:

  2 Rutland Place, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 222 9930

Indigo Yard

A fixture in Edinburgh's West End since 1996, Indigo Yard is a rustic bar and restaurant that thrives as a social hub. Its appeal is versatile: by day, it serves breakfast and lunches; later, the focus shifts to craft beers, creative cocktails and a menu of Scottish classics like gourmet burgers and their famously massive 'Indigo Munro' nachos. The week builds to a buzz with a competitive Wednesday pub quiz and live music on weekends. With its dark wood interior and reliable, crowd-pleasing formula, it’s a go-to for everything from a casual meal to a night out.

• Web:

  www.indigoyardedinburgh.co.uk

• E-mail:

  info@indigoyardedinburgh.co.uk

• Address:

  7 Charlotte Lane, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 220 5603

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–1am

Cult Coffee Roasters

Cult Coffee Roasters offers top-notch coffee and brunch fare in a modern space. Known for its inclusive vibe, the café sources seasonal, high-quality beans, masterfully roasted at their Turnhouse Court facility. Enjoy local baked goods and expertly brewed coffee in a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.

• Web:

  www.cultcoffeeroasters.com

• Address:

  104 Buccleuch Street, Newington, Edinburgh

Dovecot Studios Cafe

Dovecot Studios is an art gallery that hosts textile exhibitions, workshops and art events. It is also home to a modern and bright café, which serves freshly prepared sandwiches, soups and salads, as well as other delicious treats, including crispy pastries. Try the Artisan Roast espresso!

• Web:

  www.dovecotstudios.com/visit/dovecot-cafe

• Address:

  10 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 550 3660

Lannan Bakery

Lannan Bakery in Stockbridge opened in summer 2023 and quickly became a hit on TikTok. Led by self-taught Darcie Maher, the bakery is famous for its pastries, often causing long queues. Highlights include cardamom buns and pain suisse. With a charming interior featuring timber and brass accents, it’s easy to see how Lennan became a hit on social media. Visit early to avoid the wait!

• Web:

  www.lannanbakery.com

• Address:

  29-35 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh

• Opening hours:

  Tue–Sun 9am–4pm, Mon closed

• More info:

  The name of the bakery is derived from the Scottish Gaelic for ‘house’.

Lovecrumbs

Step into the whimsical world of Lovecrumbs, a delightfully quirky café that never fails to surprise. The tableware here is mismatched, there's lots of plants, and there's even a piano waiting to be played. Indulge your sweet tooth with an enticing selection of handmade cakes, artfully arranged on a wooden dresser. Pair your treat with a cup of expertly crafted artisanal coffee.

• Web:

  www.lovecrumbs.co.uk

• E-mail:

  shop@lovecrumbs.co.uk

• Address:

  155 West Port, Edinburgh

Mary's Milk Bar

In Edinburgh, there's a place for the sweet-tooth and the history lover, the gelato addict and the photographer: this place is Mary's Milk Bar. Instagram-worthy ice creams, intense hot chocolates, sweet treats, and a breathtaking view over Edinburgh Castle: what more could one possibly want?

• Web:

  www.marysmilkbar.com

• E-mail:

  hello@marysmilkbar.com

• Address:

  19 Grassmarket, Edinburgh

MatchaMind

Portobello’s MatchaMind, Scotland's first matcha-inspired bar, offers a variety of matcha-based drinks. Founded by Zoe, who transformed her health with this Japanese green tea drink, it offers unique drinks like matcha spritzers, iced blends, and superfood lattes. Enjoy delicious snacks like granola yogurt pots and fresh sushi. The inviting space promises great service and a modern atmosphere.

• Web:

  www.matchamind.co.uk

• Address:

  19 Brighton Place, Portobello, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  Thu–Sun 10am–4pm, Mon–Wed closed