A Taste of Auld Reekie: Edinburgh’s Most Authentic and Atmospheric Eateries
Edinburgh, a city built on volcanic rock and centuries of history, offers a culinary journey as rich and compelling as its skyline. The Scottish capital’s food tradition is one of hearty, honest, and proudly regional fare, where the natural bounty of the surrounding land and sea takes center stage. Expect menus celebrating game, world-class seafood, seasonal vegetables, and, of course, the national dish, haggis, often prepared with a contemporary touch.
To dine here is to engage with the city’s past. You don’t just eat; you settle into a snug pub that has been pouring pints since the 17th century, or find a table carved out of a historic basement vault. The true Edinburgh dining experience is about the exceptional food combined with the palpable atmosphere—a warm, welcoming glow against the gothic grandeur outside. We’ve curated a list of establishments that deliver this perfect blend of authentic local flavor, great value, and a setting that captures the essence of this magnificent city.
Old Town & Royal Mile: History on Your Plate
The heart of historic Edinburgh, the Old Town, is where centuries of history live side-by-side with modern-day culinary excellence. These restaurants are perfectly positioned for a break while exploring the Castle and Holyrood Palace.
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
This establishment takes the humble potato and elevates it into a gourmet experience. Loved for its simple, comfort-focused menu, Makars allows guests to build their perfect Scottish meal, pairing different meats (like haggis or slow-cooked beef) with creative mash flavors and sauces. It’s highly rated for providing exceptional value and a delicious, authentic, and utterly filling meal in a relaxed, casual setting just steps from the Royal Mile.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House
As the name suggests, this is a dedicated ode to Scotland’s iconic dish. For the visitor keen to try haggis—perhaps for the first time—this is the ideal spot. Reviews praise the various preparations of the dish, from traditional to modern, and its cozy, unpretentious atmosphere. Its location on the historic Cockburn Street makes it a convenient and charming stop for an authentic taste of Scotland that avoids being overly touristy.
Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar
Tucked within the Scotch Whisky Experience on Castlehill, Amber is far from a typical museum restaurant. Diners enjoy a modern take on traditional Scottish cuisine in a warm, inviting setting. Reviewers highlight the excellent “Taste of Scotland” platters and the unparalleled selection of whiskies, making it a complete cultural and culinary immersion. The setting is intimate and refined without crossing into the fine-dining price bracket.
The World’s End
Named for its location at the original boundary of the Old Town, this traditional pub offers classic, substantial Scottish pub food—think quality fish and chips, game, and hearty pies—in a historic and welcoming environment. The atmosphere is authentically pub-like: cozy, a little bustling, and rich with local character, making it a highly accessible and satisfying stop on the Royal Mile.
Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
Set in a historic building right on the Castle Esplanade, Cannonball provides the trifecta: delicious Scottish seasonal cuisine, excellent service, and a phenomenal view of Edinburgh Castle. Reviewers often mention its atmosphere as being special and highly memorable. While slightly more elevated than a casual pub, it offers a mid-range price point for an experience that feels much more exclusive.
The Piper’s Rest
A relatively new addition that quickly gained favor for its focus on Scottish scran (food) and drink, The Piper’s Rest is a warm, spirited spot near the top of the Royal Mile. It’s lauded for its lively atmosphere, often featuring traditional music, and serving up excellent quality pub fare, including local specials and satisfying mains, making it a great place to soak up local culture.
The Devil’s Advocate
Hidden away down the atmospheric Advocate’s Close, this stylish bar and restaurant occupies a former Victorian pump house. The unique setting—stone walls, moody lighting, and a stunning selection of whiskies—creates a memorable environment. The food is modern Scottish, often described as sophisticated comfort food, and the combination of excellent cocktails, hearty food, and hidden location makes for an evening experience that feels distinctly “Edinburgh.”
Mums Great Comfort Food
Directly on the Grassmarket, Mums is a casual, retro-style diner dedicated to serving up classic, traditional British and Scottish comfort food. It’s the place for satisfying sausages, enormous steak pies, and its famous “Monster Mash.” Visitors appreciate the generous portions, friendly service, and no-frills focus on delicious, hearty meals at an excellent price point.
The Edinburgh Larder
Located close to the Old Town, this spot is celebrated for its commitment to serving seasonal, sustainable, and strictly local Scottish produce. While often famous for its brunch and lunch, it offers dinner service centered on fresh, simple, and high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is bright, ethical, and effortlessly charming, appealing to those who prioritize fresh farm-to-table dining.
New Town & Beyond: Elegant & Cozy
Just a short walk from the historic center, the Georgian New Town and its neighboring areas offer a mix of traditional elegance and cozy neighborhood spots.
Howies Victoria Street
Howies is a reliable favorite known for its focus on seasonal Scottish ingredients—a step up from pub food but still comfortably mid-range. The Victoria Street location, housed in a beautiful, historic stone building on the famous curving street, offers a bright, relaxed, and slightly more formal setting perfect for lunch or dinner. Their menus regularly feature Scottish salmon, game, and classic desserts like sticky toffee pudding.
The Queen’s Arms
Nestled below the cobbled streets of Frederick Street, The Queen’s Arms is an elegant subterranean pub in the heart of the New Town. Its atmosphere is often described as a cozy, old-school den—dark wood, bookshelves, and a sophisticated buzz. It’s perfect for a substantial, quality meal of elevated pub classics (think gourmet burgers and quality fish pie) alongside an excellent selection of real ales and whiskies.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
A standout on the lower end of the Royal Mile, Wedgwood is an independent gem that consistently receives accolades for its innovative and inventive take on Scottish cuisine. It offers the quality and creativity of a high-end restaurant while maintaining a friendly, warm, and decidedly un-stuffy atmosphere. It’s the spot for visitors looking for a memorable, sophisticated meal that spotlights Scottish ingredients without the associated price tag of the city’s top fine-dining establishments.
The Whiski Rooms
Located near the Mound, connecting the Old and New Towns, The Whiski Rooms is a restaurant, bar, and shop rolled into one. It specializes in pairing hearty Scottish dishes with a massive selection of whiskies. Diners enjoy great views and a convivial atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate its comprehensive approach to Scottish fare and drink, making it an educational and enjoyable stop for those keen on both the food and the national spirit.
The White Hart Inn
Claimed to be one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs, The White Hart Inn in the Grassmarket offers a genuinely historic and lively pub atmosphere. It’s a great choice for traditional pub grub and soaking in the classic Scottish pub experience. The building’s age and character are a major draw, providing a warm, atmospheric setting for a perfectly poured pint and a solid meal.
The Scran and Scallie
Though a little further out in the desirable Stockbridge neighborhood, this gastropub is worth the short journey. Run by two Michelin-starred chefs, the focus is on elevated, yet unpretentious, pub food (“scran” is a Scots word for food). The cozy, warm atmosphere, roaring fire, and exceptional quality of the traditional dishes—like fish pie and steaks—make it a favorite among locals and a great way for tourists to see one of Edinburgh’s loveliest neighborhoods.