Edinburgh’s restaurant scene is in rude health at the moment, which can be seen by the sheer number of national awards our eateries have won recently.
Whether you want pub food or fine dining, there are many amazing restaurants in and around Scotland’s capital city that are ready to tick all your boxes.
Take a look through our photo gallery to see 13 neighbourhood gems in Edinburgh to book now, according to online restaurant-reservation service OpenTable.
. Greenwoods
Where: 61 Frederick Street, Edinburgh EH2 1LH. OpenTable says: A local gem with a European heritage, Greenwoods opened in May 2021 under the helm of director Jen Nelson, who brought the brand over to Edinburgh from Amsterdam, where it has flourished since the 1980s. Now, it is the go to for beautifully plated breakfasts and brunch around Frederick Street. Photo: Third Party
. Forage & Chatter
Where: 1A Alva Streer, Edinburgh EH2 4PH. OpenTable says: Like the name suggests, much of the menu at this cosy West End restaurant is foraged. Well executed dishes including beef fillet tartare and Orkney scallop ceviche celebrate bountiful Scottish ingredients and seasonal flavours. Photo: Third Party
. Bodega
Where: 14-15 Albert Place, Edinburgh EH7 5HN. OpenTable says: Combining global flavours with Scottish ingredients, Bodega is a trendy taqueria which also specialises in margaritas. Add the candy pink walls, a scattering of plants and plenty of natural light and the result is a lively, welcoming restaurant that is packed on any day of the night. Photo: Alix McIntosh
. The Voyage of Buck
Where: 29-31 William Street, Edinburgh EH3 7NF. OpenTable says: Every neighbourhood has that one venue with a backstory that gives it a bit of an edge. At Voyage of Buck, it’s the invented – but fun – tale of fictional William “Buck” Clarence whose travels inspire the bar’s eclectic interior and its delectable cocktails, such as the optical negroni or the peach and basil sour. Photo: Third Party
9. Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
Where: 44A Constitution Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RS. OpenTable says: A stunning Victorian building complete with stained glass, antiques and naval accents which nod to Leith’s rich maritime history make this gastropub a must-visit. Photo: Third Party
10. Chop House.
Where: Bruntsfield, Leith and Market Street. OpenTable says: Since Chop House first opened its doors in Bruntsfield in 2018, it has mirrored the success of its Leith and Market Street locations. With a reputation for serving top notch British beef, dry aged and butchered in house, it’s no wonder that recommendations for the steaks here come fast and frequently. Photo: Third Party
11. Pizza Posto
Where: 16 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DH. OpenTable says: While this is an Edinburgh institution, it’s not just locals who flock to Pizza Posto for the clay-oven fired Neapolitan pizza. Its slow rising multi-cereal dough is so loved that the restaurant has won awards – most notably the 2017 best pizzeria at the Scottish Italian Awards. Photo: Third Party
12. The Canny Man’s
Where: 237 Morningside Road, Morningside, Edinburgh EH10 4QU. OpenTable says: The 20-year-old specialty is the smørrebrød open sandwiches; served on soda or rye bread. Choose from 24 options such as the chicken salad, seafood medley, and the sharp end – creamy smoked haddock with egg and croutons, or build your own. Photo: Third Party