While it’s far from being a normal August in Edinburgh, the various festivals will all be up and running by the end of this week.
With new performances still being added to the lineup, it’s now possible to spend all day and night at a range of cultural treats – from plays featuring Hollywood stars, to up-and-coming comedians.
And even if you don’t have a ticket for a show, there are plenty of things to see and do.
But you still need to eat between enjoying all Edinburgh’s artistic attractions, and there is noticeably less food available at many venues this year due to the pandemic.
So, why not support local Edinburgh businesses and book a table at one of the wonderful restaurants and bars that are just a stone’s throw from the major festival venues?
Here are 10 suggestions, along with the venues they are convenient for.
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And even if you don’t have a ticket for a show, there are plenty of things to see and do.
. Festival food
Some of the places perfect to grab a bite of food between festival shows this August. Photo: Google Maps
. Hectors/Edinburgh Academy Junior School
A Stockbridge favourite serving good quality pub grub, Hectors is just a 15 minute walk from the Edinburgh Academy Junior School, where much of the Edinburgh International Festival's classical music programme is being held. Photo: Google Maps
5. Biblos/Old College Quad
For a quick bite before or after seeing performers like Alan Cumming at the Edinburgh International Festival's Old College Quad venue, Biblo is located on nearby Chambers Street and offers a varied and fun international venue, including pizzas, burgers and cocktails. Photo: Google Maps
6. Shakespeares/Traverse Theatre and Lyceum
For a theatrically-themed meal before or after a show at the Traverse or Lyceum, Shakespeares on Lothian Road couldn't be more conveniently located. There's also a good chance of managing to bag a table outside on a sunny day. Photo: Google Maps
7. KamaSutra Indo Tapas Restaurant/Pleasance Courtyard
Less than five minutes away from the Pleasance Courtyard - one of the main hubs of the Edinburgh Fringe - is KamaSutra Indo Tapas Restaurant. Located on Drummond Street, it offers tapas-sized portions of classic and unusual Indian dishes. Photo: Google Maps
8. The Magnum/Stand Comedy Club
Just a block away from the famous Stand Comedy Club, which has daily Fringe shows, The Magnum is an intimate bar-restaurant serving local Scottish produce, game and seafood. Photo: Google Maps