When visiting Edinburgh, you will want to fully immerse yourself in the culture, including the cuisine. While some Scottish dishes may seem a bit off the wall to American taste buds, go ahead and be a little adventurous while in Edinburgh.
Haggis, black pudding, and Cullen skink should sound exotic enough to pique your interest, and there are plenty of Scottish restaurants in Edinburgh offering authentic dishes that pay homage to Scotland’s history and culture.
Before heading out to explore the city and check out some of the top 9 Scottish restaurants, drop your bags at an Edinburgh luggage locker so you can see the sights hands-free. Bring your adventurous spirit and start tasting your way through Scotland!
Pibroch Scottish Restaurant
When searching for authentic Scottish dishes, look no further than Pibroch Scottish Restaurant. The service is fantastic and the food leaves you wanting to learn more about this rather robust cuisine.
You have to give the Cullen skink a try; it just may become your new favorite soup. The haggis is also another must-try, and the flavors will explode on your tongue. Save room for one of the delicious desserts offered.
Check out the vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options if you have diet restrictions. Ask your waiter for more info on these special diet options. You can view the menus online before getting to the restaurant.
Skyline Restaurant at Tynecastle Park
Also simply known as Skyline, this restaurant is filled with Scottish charm. Located inside Tynecastle Park, people flock here for the food as well as the ambiance. Their menus are posted online so you can check them out before getting there.
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The roast beef is delicious and the vegetable soup is a great starter. You can top your meal off with the banoffee tart, a caramel and banana tart, which is simply divine. While enjoying your meal, look out over the rooftops of Edinburgh for amazing views.
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
This local gem is an absolute must-visit when visiting Edinburgh and searching for delicious and authentic Scottish cuisine. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is a favorite local hangout and also a great spot for tourists to get a true feel for the culture.
Meat and plant-based main courses are available, so those with diet restrictions will be able to find tasty dishes made just for them. The slow-cooked beef shoulder with horseradish infused gravy is a favorite among the regulars.
Check out the menu online to decide which of their nine mashed potato dishes you will want to give a try.
Condita
Spend an evening dining at Condita and experience a fantastic tasting menu by their head chef, Conor Toomey. The menu changes with the seasons and the wait staff will help you choose the perfect wine for each of your courses.
Bring your sense of adventure and enjoy the eight-course tasting menu. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Condita uses local produce for fresh dishes. Grab your friends and head over to Condita for a fantastic and innovative meal.
The Piper’s Rest Public House
Also known just as The Piper’s Rest, this eclectic bar or pub offers delicious, authentic Scottish fare. Traditional dishes in a lively setting make for the perfect way to get to know some of the locals and learn more about the city and its culture.
You can book ahead to ensure there is a table waiting for you. Pub fare gets an upgrade at The Piper’s Rest, the haggis, neeps, and tatties dish is an absolute must for a true, authentic Scottish meal.
Borough
When looking for a unique experience in Edinburgh, look no further than the Borough and reserve a table for tea for two. The Borough has an extensive menu including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes.
Enjoy a cocktail while waiting for your entrée. Each plate is beautifully presented and the food is spot-on delicious. Choose between four-course or three-course dinners and be amazed by the efficiency of the wait staff. It is truly an experience.
Colonnades at the Signet Library
One of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea, Colonnades offers a wide variety of Scottish dishes that will leave your mouth watering. Those with special diets are also accommodated including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
Order the ox cheek pie or red pepper and black olive palmier. Scones are made fresh daily or enjoy the rhubarb and custard tart or the banana crème brûlée macaron. The ambiance of being in an old library just adds to the charm of the restaurant.
Pickles
This unique wine bar serves savory Scottish fare and has amazing vibes. The name alone should grab your interest and make you want to go in and give it a try. Their wide selection of Scottish cheeses is legendary.
Vegetarian and gluten-free dishes are also available at Pickles. Order a glass of wine, relax with a cheese plate, and then order a fantastic dinner while enjoying time unwinding with the locals.
The Cellar Door Scottish Restaurant
When looking for a casual dining experience in Edinburgh, head over to the Cellar Door Scottish Restaurant. This two-story bistro also offers a delightful children’s menu and interesting chocolate workshops.
Check out their menu online and then reserve your table or your spot in one of the chocolate workshops. The venison is especially tasty and goes great with a side of fries or chips. The sticky toffee pudding is a classic dessert well worth trying.
While food tours are an excellent way to get a taste of local cuisine, they can be a bit overwhelming. Taking your time to enjoy the dining experience in Edinburgh is really the only way to truly taste your way through the city.
Be sure to visit a few of the top 9 Scottish restaurants in Edinburgh while you are spending time soaking up the culture of the city. Bring your appetite and plan your itinerary. Then reserve a table at some of Edinburgh’s finest restaurants!