With this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe now underway, we’ve taken a look at the best places to grab a bite to eat in between shows.
Focusing on four areas where most of the world’s biggest arts festival’s venues are located, including Leith, New Town, Old Town and Pleasance/Bristo Square, we’ve recommended eateries to cater all tastes, from quick and easy takeaways to fine dining experiences.
See our photo gallery below to get ideas for where to stop for food during the Fringe this August in Edinburgh.
13. On top of the world
Cafe Calton offers stunning views and modern decor in the main cafe building, while the outdoor area is a proper suntrap when the clouds over Edinburgh part. And the cafe menu is well worth the walk up Calton Hill, with the yummy haggis toastie highly recommended. The cafe offers breakfast, lunch, evening and takeout menus - perfect if you just want a quick look at Edinburgh in all its glory from high above before you make your way to the next Fringe show. Perched atop the iconic Calton Hill, this year-old cafe offers more than just a bite to eat — it’s an experience. Take in panoramic views over Edinburgh’s historic skyline while enjoying a carefully curated menu of seasonal Scottish and international favourites. This unique cafe is open 8.30am-8.30pm seven days a week. | National World
14. Chez Jules
Chez Jules was by far the most recommended spot for something to eat when we asked readers for their thoughts. It's a French bistro tucked downstairs in Hanover Street, New Town, where you can grab a three course lunch without breaking the bank. Reasonably priced, delicious food, central locations, what's not to love. And with dozens of Fringe venues within five minutes walk of this bistro, it makes for the perfect pit-stop between shows this August. Chez Jules 12pm-10pm Sunday to Thursday, and 12pm-11pm on Friday and Saturday. | Stock
15. Royal Durbar
Recently opened Royal Durbar in Edinburgh's West End is another great New Town restaurant to grab something to eat in between Fringe shows. The former Durbar Indian Kitchen has new owners, a new look and a new menu, and is open 12pm-10pm Monday to Saturday, and Sunday 4pm-10pm. The restaurant is run by Mr Singh - a hospitality professional who previously worked in hotels, restaurants and bars in India, before moving to the UK in 2009 to manage Mother India. Pictured are a selection of Royal Durbar dishes: Nalli Gosht , Butter Chicken, Railway Lamb Curry, spinach and Goat cheese samosa. To book a table, call 0131 229 2021, or email [email protected]. | Royal Durbar
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16. Dublin St Social
Another great New Town restaurant to try during the Fringe this year is Dublin St Social, which has proven popular with customers thanks to its brunches and small plates. The bar-bistro is just a short walk from Princes Street, and yards from the Stand Comedy Club at York Place. It has a great outdoor seating area that would be perfect for sitting with a drink and watching the world go by. Offering both small plates and a brunch menu, there's plenty to choose from. Closed on Mondays, this restaurant on Dublin Street is open 12pm until late, Tuesday to Saturday, and 12pm-8pm on Sunday. | Dublin St Social