The 9 best restaurants in Edinburgh city centre - according to Google reviews

Locals will attest that Edinburgh is home to some of the best food and drink across Scotland - here’s nine Google reviews that should prove their point.

Edinburgh is a vibrant city filled with some of the best food and drink options across Scotland, and is one of the most enticing places for food lovers across the world to visit. Foodies are absolutely spoilt for choice with the city offering just about every cuisine on the table.

As we enter the new year, the poor weather and long month of January can get you down, so what better way to add some excitement to the month by heading out for a dinner with your friends and trying some delicious new food. From tasty gastropubs, chilled-out tapas vibes or stylish pan-Asian fusions there is something for everyone in the city and surrounding areas.

Whether you prefer a formal sit-down meal or some sharing platters with some drinks, there is bound to be something that fits your needs and taste in Edinburgh.

Whether you’re a first time visitor, or a local, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to eat in the city. So we have rounded up the top rated restaurants across the city, here are the best restaurants in Edinburgh according to Google.

Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill Edinburgh

About: Fazenda Edinburgh sits in the heart of the cultural capital. In the restaurant Meats are grilled to be served at the table at this stylish open plan eatery with veggie options.

Where: 102 George St, Edinburgh EH2 3DF

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Absolutely amazing! Fantastic food just keeps coming, no chance for you to leave hungry. There was hardly any wait, staff was absolutely amazing and eager to help, and super friendly with our four year-old. Food selection and quality is absolutely astonishing. Would recommend a date, anniversary or any other special occasion meal, absolutely 10/10 will be coming back.”

Makars Mash Bar

About: One of Edinburgh’s independent restaurants showcasing inclusive Scottish comfort food and friendly service while supporting local suppliers.

Where: 9-12 Bank St, Edinburgh EH1 2LN

Google rating: 4.7

Makars Gourmet Mash Bar, situated at the Mound,  has been named as the country’s No.1 ‘Everyday Eats’ restaurant – places that offer great food but won’t break the bank.

What customers are saying: “Really good place in the centre of Edinburgh. I had lamb and the meat was just falling off the bone. The mash and gravy was great. Haggis and Scotch whisky egg was great too. One of the first places on my itinerary next time. I have to mention Ben and Sasha for their service, always smiling and helping. They were an absolute delight.”

Gaucho Edinburgh

About: Designer furnishings & cowhide fabrics create a lavish backdrop for Argentine food & wine. The Edinburgh steakhouse is proudly the company’s first Scottish sustainable restaurant.

Where: 4a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD

Google rating: 4.6

Gaucho Edinburgh serves some of the best steaks in the city.

What customers are saying: “Anniversary dinner. Food and wines were unbelievable. Recommend the sharing platter with the four different cuts. Waiting staff were great service; informative and had a smile on their faces!”

Dishoom Edinburgh

About: Dishoom Edinburgh on St Andrew Square serves a lovingly curated menu of Bombay comfort food and first-class drinks all day, every day.

Where: 3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD

Google rating: 4.6

What customers are saying: “Absolutely amazing. Every dish was so flavorful I couldn’t have imagined it to be any better. We had a large group of eight and I would  definitely recommend getting a reservation. The staff explained the menu for us and helped us pick out dishes. The Ruby chicken is so good and enough for one person. Would recommend getting a side of garlic naan”

Cafe St Honore

About: Cafe St Honore in Edinburgh serves daily-changing, gluten-free and dairy-free menus using the best local and fresh Scottish produce cooked in classic French style and served in smart Parisian brasserie decor.

Where: 34 Thistle St N W Ln, Edinburgh EH2 1EA

Google rating: 4.6

What customers are saying: “Beautiful restaurant with lovely menu and quiet place downstairs for a group of eight.  Service was great and the food was delicious. Definitely one of the best we have eaten in Edinburgh.”

Cafe Andaluz

About: Elegant Andalucian decor & an intimate feel in a tapas joint with paellas and other Spanish fare.

Where: 77B George St, Edinburgh EH2 3EE

Google rating: 4.5

What customers are saying: “First time trying.  Service was excellent.  Would definitely go back to try other dishes on offer. Highly recommend it.”

Howies Restaurant

About: Locally sourced, seasonal offerings presented in a convivial, bright setting with a relaxed feel.

Where: 29 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ

Google rating: 4.5

What customers are saying: “Really good prices, excellent desserts and high quality cooking overall!"

Loch Fyne Restaurant and Bar

About: Upscale chain restaurant serving sustainably sourced British fish & seafood, plus some meat dishes.

Where: Harbour, 25-26 Pier Place Newhaven, Edinburgh EH6 4LP

Google rating: 4.4

What customers are saying: “Great fresh seafood nice staff nice venue good price proper fresh fish"

The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh

About: Modern, all-day British brasserie menu in a refined, art-filled space with an outdoor terrace.

Where: 6 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD

Google rating: 4.4

What customers are saying: “Super meal in a warm atmosphere, lovely decor and friendly and efficient staff."