Newly opened Edinburgh restaurant named as sole Scottish addition to Michelin Guide
A newly opened Scottish restaurant is the latest addition to the Michelin Guide 2026.
A newly opened Edinburgh restaurant is the sole Scottish establishment to be added to the Michelin Guide this month.
Whirlybird, located on Victoria Street in the Capital's Old Town, caught the attention of inspectors just four months after opening its doors in May.
Every month the inspectors reveal the restaurants that have caught their attention and are worthy of inclusion in the Michelin Guide.
With new Stars and Bib Gourmands set to be announced in early 2027 at a special ceremony, the latest additions have been added to the 2026 Guide from the inspectors who are on the road all year round, eating their way around some of the country’s best restaurants.
Michelin Guide inspectors wrote: “Situated on a colourful cobbled street in the heart of Edinburgh’s picturesque Old Town, in a building that’s over 250 years old, Whirlybird is set over two levels and reached via a winding staircase.
“The all-day offering includes something for everyone, from coffee and light bites in the day to the beers and cocktails at the adjoining bar in the evening. But it’s the authentic bistro-style menu that lets the chefs really show their talents, via honest dishes that dispense with over-elaboration in favour of high-quality, complementing ingredients treated with care.”
Whirlybird, a new addition to Edinburgh’s bar and restaurant scene, opened on Victoria Street in May this year. It is led by experienced operator Ash Bairstow, who has created an all-day modern tavern that combines Scottish food with an innovative drinks list and thoughtful interior design, set in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The name derives from the Scots nickname for the spinning sycamore seed in a nod to the building’s heritage and relaxed atmosphere.
The kitchen is led by chef Lucia Gregusova, formerly of Hawksmoor, who brings to Whirlybird a menu that celebrates quality, Scottish ingredients.
Of the launch, Ash Bairstow said: “We're delighted to bring this historical building back to life. The Old Town is such a magical place to be, and we cannot wait to share our take on modern hospitality with our Edinburgh audience.”