A Local's Guide to the Best Restaurants in Edinburgh: Scottish Classics & Hidden Gems
Are you searching for the best food in Edinburgh, Scotland? You’re in for a treat. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re coming back for your favourite dishes, the city has plenty of delicious surprises waiting for you.
Here are my favourite restaurants in Edinburgh – places I’ve enjoyed and am excited to recommend to other food lovers. These spots offer more than just tasty dishes; they have a great atmosphere, interesting history, and plenty of heart.
You’ll also find helpful tips on where to eat in Edinburgh City Centre, plus some great options in the Old Town.
Enjoy exploring Edinburgh’s food scene!
Table of Contents
Howies Victoria
Classic Scottish on Iconic Victoria Street
In my opinion, Howies Victoria is one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh and the top spot to try Scottish food.
It’s on Victoria Street, which is probably the most photographed street in Europe, close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
The restaurant does a great job of mixing tradition with a modern touch.
Locals also love this restaurant. They come here to celebrate anniversaries or enjoy time with friends and colleagues. People choose it for the great food, cosy atmosphere, and fair prices for an Old Town spot.
The best place to try Scottish cuisine
I have visited Howie’s many times, with my family or if I have visitors who want to find a good place to eat in Edinburgh, that’s my first recommendation.
To get a real idea of what the Scottish cuisine is, get the Cullen Skink as a starter – a creamy, smoked haddock soup that is arguably the best in the city.
To get a real idea of what the Scottish cuisine is, get the Cullen Skink as a starter – a creamy, smoked haddock soup that is arguably the best in the city.
For your main course, try the Scottish Wild Venison and Juniper Casserole. It’s tender, rich, and comforting.
If you prefer haggis, this is the place to order it. Their haggis is among the best in the city, rich and warming, served with creamy mash and neeps. The peppery oatmeal crust gives a nice crunch, and the whisky gravy makes it special. The smoky aroma makes the dish even more memorable.
If you have dietary needs, Howies also offers vegetarian haggis so everyone can enjoy this Scottish classic.
They are also known for fresh seafood, often featuring a “catch of the day” from the nearby Peterhead docks.
Ideal central location - close to Edinburgh Castle and the famous Royal Mile
The restaurant is in a historic building just minutes from Edinburgh Castle and has an informal but elegant feel. Inside, it’s warm and cosy, with wooden floors, candlelight, and local art on the walls.
📍 Good to know: Situated in a charming 19th-century school building.
At Howies, ask your server about the murals from when the building was a 19th-century school. You’ll notice old classroom doors and stone floors, which add to the unique atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
You are within minutes of the Royal Mile, so this is ideal after a tour of Edinburgh Castle or the nearby visit to Camera Obscura.
After lunch, walk down the hill to explore the Grassmarket. It was once a cattle market and is now a lively square with pubs and independent shops.
Victoria Street is said to have inspired Diagon Alley, so take time to browse the bookshops and boutiques before or after your meal.
Location: Old Town
Address: 10–14 Victoria Street, Edinburgh
Address: 10–14 Victoria Street, Edinburgh
📍 Since it is a very popular place, it is a good idea to book a table.
The Sheep Heid Inn
A Pub with 650+ Years of History
Best place to eat in Edinburgh for:
- traditional meals
- historic charm
- cosy pub atmosphere
If you’re craving a real glimpse into Scotland’s past, The Sheep Heid Inn is the place.
This is Edinburgh’s, and even Scotland’s, oldest surviving pub, full of charm and character.
The building greets you with low, beamed ceilings, thick stone walls, and original fireplaces dating back centuries.
One standout feature is the original skittle alley, a gift from King James VI, where you can still bowl today, making your meal feel like part of Scottish history.
For authentic Scottish classics and a traditional experience, I strongly recommend The Sheep Heid Inn as a must-visit.
It also has a nice Beer Garden, which is very popular in the summer.
The menu has plenty of options, so everyone can find something they like. I’ve enjoyed trying different Scottish dishes here.
Last time I visited, I tried the Balmoral chicken, which is chicken fillet with haggis and bacon, served with chive mash, roasted vegetables, and whisky sauce.
I was surprised by how well chicken and haggis go together.
For dessert, I had Cranachan, a classic Scottish treat you should definitely try when you’re here.
What else do I recommend from their Scottish cuisine section? The British Steak & Malbec Pie. It’s really delicious and juicy here.
I keep coming back not just for the food, but also for the friendly atmosphere, thoughtful decor, and all the historical details that make it feel a bit like a museum.
When it’s quiet, I like to walk around, look at old photos, and check out the historic bowling alley.
Did you know The Queen visited Sheep Heid Inn on 6th July 2016? If you’re lucky, you might sit in the same chair and have the same beer, Inns & Gunns, as she did.
📍Fun fact: Did you know King James VI used to bowl here when he wasn’t busy with royal duties? And the historical bowl area is open to the public to this day.
👉 After or better before your meal, take a short walk and climb Arthur’s Seat for some stunning views!
Location: Duddingston
Address: 43–45 The Causeway, Edinburgh
Makar’s Mash Bar
Comfort Food, Scottish Style
If you want a comforting Scottish meal with something a little different, Makars Mash Bar is a great pick. They focus on comfort food and get their ingredients from local farms.
It’s a casual, lively spot with a café vibe, great for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner. The friendly staff serve up good food in a warm, simple space.
📍 Here’s a fun fact: “Makar” means poet, which makes sense because they truly turn mash into something special!
What Makes It Special?
What I love about this place is the variety. Makar’s takes the classic Scottish “tattie” and lets you build your own meal.
It’s easy: choose your main dish, called the ‘Makar,’ and then pick your mash. They stand out for their mash options, from classic buttered mash to creative varieties like whisky mash, cheddar mash, or black pudding mash.
Imagine the smell of whisky in the steam or the sharp taste of melted cheddar mixed into creamy potatoes. Mmmm …
Great Scottish comfort food
On my first visit, I didn’t know what to order because everything looked great. I was curious but a little nervous to try haggis for the first time. Was it really as hearty as people say?
I decided on Makars homemade beef-lamb haggis with heather honey and turnip puree.
Sitting at a rustic wooden table, I could smell the slow-cooked meats and buttery mash. The staff, with their warm Scottish accents, helped me choose and made the meal feel special.
When my food arrived, the portion was big, there was lots of sauce, and it tasted amazing. Being unsure at first made the meal even more enjoyable.
Meals cost between £19 and £23, which is a good deal for the quality and experience. If you’re not too hungry, you can ask for a smaller portion for 20% less.
The menu has Scottish classics, with both traditional and vegetarian haggis as highlights. The mash is the star, but the toppings are just as good. The Slow-Cooked Beef Shoulder with horseradish gravy stands out, as does their Award-Winning Haggis, which comes in meat, vegetarian, or vegan versions.
If you want something different, try the Lion’s Mane Mushroom dishes. They even grow the mushrooms themselves. There are lots of vegetarian and vegan options, so everyone can find something to enjoy.
Things to Do Nearby
Since it’s in the centre of town, Makar’s Mash Bar is a great stop for tourists. It’s just steps from the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery.
The Real Mary King’s Close, where you can explore old underground streets, is also nearby.
If you want to walk off your meal, Princes Street Gardens are just a short stroll away.
For a local experience after your meal at Makar’s Mash Bar, walk a few steps to the Jolly Judge pub to end your evening. It’s tucked down a close off the Royal Mile and feels like a real hidden Edinburgh spot, not just another tourist bar.
👉 To avoid crowds, visit in the mid-afternoon or late evening. It’s smart to book a table during busy times, especially on weekends and during tourist season.
Location: Old Town
Address: 9–12 Bank St, Edinburgh
Deacon’s House Café
History in a Cup
If you’re looking for a coffee break or a light meal on the Royal Mile, I suggest stopping by Deacon’s House Café.
It’s more than just a spot for a scone. The whole place draws you into one of Edinburgh’s most famous legends, with the interior sharing its story.
A cup of coffee and a step back in time to the 18th century
The cafe is located in the former home and workshop of Deacon Brodie, the 18th-century guild leader who was a respected citizen by day and a notorious burglar by night.
His double life famously inspired Robert Louis Stevenson to write The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
The café is set in a historic Royal Mile building, which adds a special atmosphere to your coffee break.
These walls really do tell a story. They’re covered with murals from the period and scenes from William Brodie’s life.
Have a cup of tea and let the murals take you back to the 18th century.
My favourite place in the Royal Mile for a cup of coffee or a light lunch
The menu features traditional Scottish café food, perfect for a midday break.
I love their Hand-Baked Scones with clotted cream and jam—some of the best in the city. Their homemade cakes, especially the Victoria Sponge, are also a treat.
If you want a true Scottish breakfast, try their Full Deacon Breakfast with Stornoway black pudding. When I ordered it, my plate came with smoked Ayrshire bacon, pork and veal sausage, Stornoway black pudding, free-range egg porridge, roasted cherry tomatoes, beans, toast, and butter. It was delicious and filling.
There’s also a nice selection for a light lunch, including Toasties, Quiches, and a soup of the day. On my last visit, I had the tomato soup with basil, it was delicious and only 6.20£.
“Hidden gem” in the Royal Mile
The cafe really is a hidden gem. You walk through a narrow stone passageway into a courtyard and a lovely wood-panelled dining room.
Even though it’s just steps from the Royal Mile, it feels quiet and tucked away. The courtyard offers outdoor seating, which is rare in Old Town.
Nearby attractions
This spot is ideal for exploring the Lawnmarket area of the Royal Mile. St Giles’ Cathedral is just down the street, and The Writers’ Museum is right across in Lady Stair’s Close, celebrating Scotland’s critical literary figures.
Even more interesting, you’re just a short walk from The Real Mary King’s Close. This underground network of streets, preserved since the 17th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s past.
Location: Old Town, Royal Mile
Address: 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh
