How to Find the Best Food Spots in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital city, is home to some of the best food in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a high-end restaurant, a traditional pub lunch, affordable student fare or hipster eats, there is something for everyone. Here is a guide to finding the perfect food spot to suit your tastes in Scotland’s lively capital.If you’re planning a day out in Scotland’s traditional capital city, you’ll want to make sure to explore the gastronomic scene and taste some of the delicious local fare. Whether you are looking for catering for groups or cosy restaurants for two, the city has plenty of places to choose from. Fortunately, the local area caters to a variety of different budgets and tastes so that you can find the perfect place for you to enjoy a delicious meal. Popular food types in Edinburgh are things like haggis and scotch pies, but it isn’t limited to traditional Scottish dishes. The city is home to award-winning Thai eateries, wood-fired pizza vans, veggie-friendly cafes and more, plus food festivals throughout the year. If you’re looking for mouth-watering food out in the city, here are some of the best places in Edinburgh that you should visit.

High-End Restaurants

Some of the highest quality fine dining experiences are right here in Edinburgh. From 5 star full course meals to Michelin starred eateries, there’s something to suit all tastes. And homesick visitors can rest assured that many of the restaurants serve world-famous Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties and whisky marmalade. Here are some top picks:

• The Scotland Seat and Books
• Restaurant Martin Wishart
• 21212 Restaurant
• Monteith’s Restaurant
• The Tower Restaurant

Traditional Pub Grub

Edinburgh has some great pubs as well as some of Scotland’s most beloved traditional dishes to be found here. Whether you’re after a hearty helping of haggis, neaps and tatties (boiled turnip and mashed potatoes) or just a warming bowl of Scottish broth, you’ll find them at a traditional pub. The Cockburn’s Westport Bar & Restaurant is a good place to start, as is The Last Drop where you can sample some classic Scottish cuisine in an atmospheric setting. And for those who want something a bit more exotic there are plenty of pubs with menus influenced by international cuisine like The White Hart Lothian Road, which serves up American-style burgers and gourmet Mexican dishes.

Street Food & Takeaways

For lighter fare on the go, Edinburgh also has a fantastic selection of street food stalls and takeaways. One of the best places to visit if you are after some delicious snacks is Stockbridge Market Stall where you can find an array of tasty treats such as artisanal donuts, macarons, cakes and more. Other great options include The Pitt Street Food Court where you can sample some world-famous street food from around the globe, plus there are plenty of traditional takeaway shops where you can pick up fish and chips or hot pies on the go. The city is also home to a vibrant vegetarian food scene with eateries such as Redwood Cafe offering delicious vegan dishes. Other options include The Baked Potato Shop which serves up piping hot jacket potatoes with all manner of delicious fillings, or the Pret A Manger branch in the Laing Art Gallery for those looking for something a bit more substantial.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a vibrant city with a wealth of delicious cuisine to be sampled from all around the world. Whether you’re looking for high-end eateries or just something quick and budget-friendly, you won’t be disappointed with what Edinburgh has to offer in terms of food and drink. Make sure to hit up some of these spots next time you’re in town and sample some of Scotland’s amazing cuisine!

An Insider’s Guide: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the vibrant capital city of Scotland, is a hub of culture and history that offers endless experiences for tourists. Beyond exploring the usual tourist attractions, Edinburgh holds hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s a detailed insider guide to exploring Edinburgh and discovering its hidden treasures.

Local Attractions

While Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat are some of the top attractions in the city, other hidden gems are worth exploring. The Dean Village is unique and worth a visit. Nestled between cobbled streets and colorful houses, it is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Another lesser-known place is the Duddingston Village, a charming and picturesque location with unique architecture and a peaceful ambiance.

A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden is a must. The garden is expansive, covering over 70 acres, offering breathtaking views of the city and plenty of hidden nooks and crannies to explore. The garden is home to rare, exotic plants, and boasts of an impressive collection of Victorian glasshouses.

Dining Spots

Edinburgh has a diverse food culture. From traditional Scottish foods like haggis to modern-day fusion cuisine, the city’s restaurants cater to all palates. A must-try is the traditional Scottish dish, Cullen skink, which is a creamy soup made with smoked haddock. The local fish and chip shops offer authentic and flavorful Scottish fish and chips, which are freshly prepared and served with tangy tartar sauce.

For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to Mary’s Milk Bar on Grassmarket is a must. The shop offers heavenly ice cream and hot chocolate made from high-quality ingredients and with unique flavor combinations.

Cultural Experiences

Edinburgh is a city of festivals, art, and music. August hosts the largest arts festival globally, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where artists from all over the world display their talents in various art forms. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a military and cultural display with impressive performances by military bands, dancers, and musicians.

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is an excellent place to visit if you’re interested in the arts. The gallery houses portraits of famous Scottish personalities throughout history. The building itself is beautiful, with intricate ceilings, stained glass windows, and marble floors.

Local History

Edinburgh has a rich and fascinating history, with stories that are not just confined to museums. A must-visit is Greyfriars Kirkyard, where an abundance of interesting stories can be found, including the story of Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier. Bobby was the faithful companion of a night watchman, and after his death, Bobby sat on his owner’s grave every night for fourteen years until he passed away himself.

For a unique experience, visit the Edinburgh Vaults, a series of underground rooms that date back to the 18th century. These rooms had been abandoned for years, and the only known occupants of these vaults were ghosts and criminals.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Edinburgh’s hidden gems are not limited to the usual places. For a unique experience, head to Calton Hill, climb the stairs at sunset, and be awed at the views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the Firth of Forth.

Take a unique tour of the city on a vintage bus, complete with a guide and period costumes. The tour offers an immersive experience, taking you back in time while introducing you to the city’s history and the lesser-known facts.

Edinburgh is a city rich in history, culture, and food. The hidden gems offer a deeper insight into these aspects than any tourist map or guidebook could offer. Explore the hidden gems and fall in love with the city like a local.