Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. From its stunning architecture to its world-class museums and galleries, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city. But, let’s be honest, one of the most important aspects of any trip is the food. And, in Edinburgh, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to delicious dining options. In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at where to eat in Edinburgh city centre, covering everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors and everything in between.
Whether you’re a foodie, a budget-conscious traveler, or just looking for a quick bite to eat, Edinburgh’s city centre has something for everyone. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes and street food stalls, the options are endless. And, with a rich history and cultural heritage, the city’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and want to know where to eat in the city centre, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and eateries, highlighting the must-try dishes, drinks, and desserts that you won’t want to miss.
Traditional Scottish Cuisine
Scotland is famous for its hearty and comforting cuisine, and Edinburgh’s city centre is the perfect place to try some traditional Scottish dishes. From haggis to neeps and tatties, and from Cullen skink to Aberdeen Angus beef, there’s no shortage of delicious options to try.
The Kitchin
Located in the heart of the city, The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up modern Scottish cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, but some of their signature dishes include roasted scallops, pan-seared halibut, and lamb’s tongue.
Address: 78 Commercial St, Edinburgh EH6 6LX
Edinburgh Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday, the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market sets up shop in the city centre, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local specialties. From Scottish cheeses to handmade chocolates, and from fresh bread to local honey, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to try.
Address: Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2JG
The Royal McGregor
Located in the heart of the city, The Royal McGregor is a traditional Scottish pub that serves up a wide range of classic dishes, including haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.
Address: 6-8 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1DD (See Also: Where to Eat in Sm Sucat? Best Kept Secrets)
International Cuisine
Edinburgh’s city centre is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. From Indian and Chinese to Italian and Mexican, there’s no shortage of international flavors to try.
Malmaison Edinburgh
Located in the heart of the city, Malmaison Edinburgh is a stylish hotel that serves up a wide range of international cuisine, including French, Italian, and Spanish dishes. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for couples or business travelers.
Address: 1 Tower St, Edinburgh EH6 7DB
Edinburgh’s Chinatown
Edinburgh’s Chinatown is one of the largest in the UK, and it’s a must-visit destination for foodies. From traditional Chinese restaurants to modern fusion eateries, there’s no shortage of delicious options to try. Some of the top recommendations include:
- Chung Ying Central
- Golden Dragon
- China Red
La Lanterna
Located in the heart of the city, La Lanterna is a family-run Italian restaurant that serves up traditional dishes, including pasta, pizza, and risotto. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.
Address: 30-31 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DD
Cafes and Bakeries
Edinburgh’s city centre is home to a wide range of cafes and bakeries, serving up everything from artisanal coffee to delicious pastries and cakes. Some of the top recommendations include:
The Pantry
Located in the heart of the city, The Pantry is a cozy cafe that serves up a wide range of breakfast and brunch dishes, including eggs, pancakes, and sandwiches. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.
Address: 12-14 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DD
Lovecrumbs
Located in the heart of the city, Lovecrumbs is a popular bakery that serves up a wide range of delicious treats, including cakes, pastries, and sandwiches. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups. (See Also: Where to Eat in Outer Banks? Best Local Secrets)
Address: 25-27 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DD
The Elephant House
Located in the heart of the city, The Elephant House is a cozy cafe that serves up a wide range of breakfast and brunch dishes, including eggs, pancakes, and sandwiches. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.
Address: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD
Street Food and Markets
Edinburgh’s city centre is home to a wide range of street food stalls and markets, serving up everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors. Some of the top recommendations include:
The Royal Mile Market
Every Saturday, the Royal Mile Market sets up shop in the city centre, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local specialties. From Scottish cheeses to handmade chocolates, and from fresh bread to local honey, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to try.
Address: Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1JF
Edinburgh’s Street Food Market
Located in the heart of the city, Edinburgh’s Street Food Market offers a wide range of international cuisine, including Mexican, Indian, and Chinese dishes. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.
Address: Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2JG
Recap
In this blog post, we’ve taken a comprehensive look at where to eat in Edinburgh city centre, covering everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors and everything in between. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes and street food stalls, the options are endless. Whether you’re a foodie, a budget-conscious traveler, or just looking for a quick bite to eat, Edinburgh’s city centre has something for everyone. (See Also: Where to Eat Waffles in Brussels? Top Hidden Gems)
Some of the top recommendations include:
- The Kitchin (Michelin-starred restaurant)
- Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (traditional Scottish cuisine)
- Malmaison Edinburgh (international cuisine)
- The Pantry (cozy cafe)
- Lovecrumbs (popular bakery)
- The Elephant House (cozy cafe)
- The Royal Mile Market (street food market)
- Edinburgh’s Street Food Market (international cuisine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best restaurants in Edinburgh city centre?
A: Some of the top recommendations include The Kitchin, Malmaison Edinburgh, and La Lanterna. These restaurants offer a wide range of traditional Scottish cuisine, international flavors, and modern fusion dishes.
Q: What are the best cafes in Edinburgh city centre?
A: Some of the top recommendations include The Pantry, Lovecrumbs, and The Elephant House. These cafes offer a wide range of breakfast and brunch dishes, as well as delicious pastries and cakes.
Q: What are the best street food markets in Edinburgh city centre?
A: Some of the top recommendations include The Royal Mile Market and Edinburgh’s Street Food Market. These markets offer a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local specialties.
Q: What are the best bakeries in Edinburgh city centre?
A: Some of the top recommendations include Lovecrumbs and The Pantry. These bakeries offer a wide range of delicious treats, including cakes, pastries, and sandwiches.
Q: What are the best restaurants for families or groups?
A: Some of the top recommendations include The Royal McGregor, La Lanterna, and The Pantry. These restaurants offer a wide range of traditional Scottish cuisine, international flavors, and modern fusion dishes, and are suitable for families or groups.