If you’re wondering what to eat in Edinburgh, you are not alone. People are often mystified by Scottish cuisine.
When traveling to Scotland and you find yourself curious about the local fare, we are making it simple with our list of the best things to eat in Edinburgh!
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A Traveler’s Guide on What To Eat in Edinburgh
In our opinion, one of the great things about traveling is getting a taste of the regional cuisine. Food is the heart and soul of every culture – and we found it especially so with Scottish food in Edinburgh.
On our recent trip, we eagerly sought out unique food to eat in Edinburgh. We took advice from locals as well as fellow travelers – and feel we succeeded in sampling some amazing Edinburgh food.
On our list, we feature some of the best food in Edinburgh. For each dish, we also suggest an Edinburgh restaurant to try that meal.
Furthermore, we are sharing some items that often appear on Edinburgh menus, even though they’re not necessarily from Scotland.
Also read our guide to the Best Things To Do in Edinburgh!
25 Foods To Eat in Edinburgh, Scotland
Alright foodies, are you ready from some of the prime places to eat in Edinburgh? Of course you are! Let’s get straight to it, then.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Edinburgh Food Guide to plan your trip to Scotland!
#1 Haggis
We can’t write about what to eat in Scotland without talking about haggis. It’s the national dish and a must eat in Edinburgh. Yet, it is a mystery to many travelers.
For some, it actually may be better not to know what is in haggis. Instead, just try it and see what you think!
Haggis is a Scottish pudding – as in, a savory sausage. It is made with sheep – typically the heart, liver and lungs – and mixed with spices and oatmeal and then encased.
The result is a nutty and (some say) divine dish. We are sharing a few of the popular ways to eat this classic food at restaurants in Edinburgh.
Haggis with Neeps and Tatties
When you see Haggis, Neeps and Tatties listed on menus, you may really start to wonder if Scottish people speak English. Don’t stress; it’s just slang.
Let me translate: Haggis with Turnips (Neeps) and Potatoes (Tatties). A whisky sauce is served on the side and it’s comfort food at its finest.
Pro Tip: On some pub menus, it is offered in a smaller, appetizer portion. If you are uncertain about trying haggis, consider starting off with just a taste of this Edinburgh must eat dish.
Haggis Stack
Simply a modern way of presenting an old favorite, a Haggis Stack (also called a Haggis Tower) contains the same ingredients as above.
However, it’s neatly assembled in rounds layered on top of each other and then drizzled with whisky sauce.
Haggis Balls
Breaded balls – or Haggis Bon Bons – are deep fried appetizers that provide a great introduction to this odd cuisine of Scotland. Everyone at the table can get a taste without committing to the full order!
Best Haggis Restaurant Edinburgh
We tried haggis at a few different Edinburgh restaurants and pubs – and actually enjoyed them all.
I particularly liked the haggis at The Conan Doyle – named for the Edinburgh native that invented Detective Sherlock Holmes. The classic pub atmosphere is highlighted by the traditional gastronomy.
Greyfriars Bobby is often hailed for its haggis. They serve it as both a starter and main meal – plus they have heaps of other traditional Scottish foods on their menu.
#2 Fish and Chips
While Scotland can’t lay claim to inventing Fish and Chips, in Edinburgh they have certainly put their own spin on it. This version is with ‘Salt ‘n’ Sauce’ and it is a must eat in Scotland.
Typically made with a large fillet of haddock, which is breaded and deep fried, the fish is then salted and generously doused in Chippy Sauce (a mixture of malt vinegar and ‘brown sauce’).
For Scottish Fish and Chips – often referred to as a Fish Supper – the fried fish is served atop a bed of thick fries (chips). If you want tartar sauce, you may have to pay extra, as it is not a typical accompaniment.
Best Edinburgh Restaurants for Fish and Chips
Fish and chips are served in nearly every pub and restaurant in Edinburgh. Additionally, chippies – small take-away spots – are some of the best spots for local eats in Edinburgh.
Those sticking to the city center should pop into Berties Proper Fish and Chips on Victoria Street (just steps from the Royal Mile). It is one of the top places to eat in Edinburgh for a taste of the classic British meal.
If you’re venturing further afield, check out The Fishmarket in Newhaven. With a long history in the seafood industry and a commitment to sea-to-table fare, they serve exceptional fish and chips.
Pro Tip: Craving something sweet after all that salt? Be sure to order a Deep Fried Mars Bar from the chippy for an after-dinner treat!
#3 Cullen Skink
Cullen Skink is another classic Scottish comfort food – but one that I had a difficult time getting on board with.
The decadent, creamy soup is made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, all of which sounds wonderful, right? It was the name that hung me up – and I almost missed out on what became my favorite Scottish meal!
The dish was created in the seaside town of Cullen along the northeast coast of Scotland. Skink means shin or knuckle – and was long ago used to describe soups made from these. The word later just came to mean soup!
Best Restaurant in Edinburgh for Cullen Skink
I tried this hearty soup in many establishments and found two of the best places to be The Magnum in New Town and Teuchters Landing in Leith.
At The Magnum it’s served with large chunks of smoked fish in a superb broth. A slice of cheesy bread is brought as a side, and together, it was perfection.
In Teuchters Landing they serve Cullen Skink in a mug – either small or large. While theirs features smaller pieces of haddock and potatoes, it was an absolutely delicious appetizer.
#4 Balmoral Chicken
Balmoral Chicken is named for the Royal Castle and is a very popular thing to eat in Edinburgh – and a tasty one, at that!
Not particularly complex – but definitely Scottish – the chicken breast is stuffed with haggis, wrapped in bacon and topped with a whiskey gravy. The distinct flavor combination is sublime!
Where To Eat Balmoral Chicken in Edinburgh
The Conan Doyle serves a scrumptious Balmoral Chicken accompanied with mashed potatoes and carrots.
The Hanover Tap is another spot where we enjoyed this meal. They also feature a great line up of craft beer and a lively atmosphere.
Foodie Tip: The Balmoral Burger is another popular pub meal. Topped with haggis, bacon, cheddar cheese and gravy – it can be found in many Edinburgh pubs, like The World’s End.
#5 Full Scottish Breakfast
A traditional Full Breakfast in Edinburgh – sometimes called a Proper Fry Up – is a hearty affair that includes an array of items on a single plate.
You can expect bacon, sausage, haggis, black pudding, a potato scone (also called tattie scones), baked beans, grilled mushrooms, a slice of fried tomato and a sunny side up egg. It’s often served with a cup of Scottish tea.
Where To Eat Breakfast in Edinburgh
Loudons is often hailed as the best breakfast place in Edinburgh – so be sure to book ahead of time. Besides a Full Breakfast, other choices include pancakes, eggs benedict (try the Hoots Mon Scottish Benny) and sweet pastries.
Snax Cafe is a small greasy spoon that offers all-day breakfast dishes (among other items). Well known for filling food, they provide good value for a morning meal.
#6 Scotch Pie
An institution of Scottish cuisine, a savory Scotch Pie is a must-eat in Edinburgh. Considered a convenience food for centuries, they are cheap, on-the-go fare.
According to tradition, a Scotch Pie is filled with spiced minced lamb with a slightly sweet taste. Modern versions today feature a more savory beef filling.
Each baker has their own guarded recipe of ingredients, but we haven’t come across one that wasn’t totally satisfying!
A Forfar Bridie is another type of hand pie in the shape of a half moon. It is similar to the Cornish Pasty in appearance, but only includes beef, spices and onion.
Where To Eat Scotch Pies in Edinburgh
Scotch Pies are often sold from bakeries and small cafes, which are great cheap places to eat in Edinburgh.
The Piemaker doles out a hefty range of Scotch Pies. The assortment includes ones filled with steak, beef, chicken, haggis and macaroni and cheese. They also have vegetarian and vegan options.
Storries, on the other hand, is a classic bakery on Leith Walk where we believe they make the best pies in Edinburgh. The no-frills establishment has both meat and vegetable varieties, plus donuts and cakes!
#7 Scottish Steak Pie
A pub specialty throughout the United Kingdom – and a must eat food in Edinburgh – a Steak Pie is similar to a Scotch Pie, except that it is larger and eaten as a sit-down meal.
The filling is also chunky and saucy; more like a thick beef stew encased in a buttery and flaky crust.
Pro Tip: Traveling in Europe for the Christmas Holidays and wondering what to eat in Edinburgh for New Year’s Day? Steak Pie is the traditional Scottish dinner on January 1st!
Best Restaurants in Edinburgh for Steak Pie
Nicholson’s Pubs specialize in pie dinners. We recommend indulging in the Steak and Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie, which won gold at the British Pie Awards, at Deacon Brodie’s.
That said, if you have a kitchen in your accommodation, get a steak pie from James Anderson Butchers in Leith. Here they make an award-winning version that just needs to be reheated in the oven!
#8 Stovies
A one-pot, stovetop dish based on stewed potatoes, Stovies are a Scottish food that is versatile and a favorite cold-weather meal.
Although Stovies always include potatoes, they are usually accompanied by onions and meat. This can be corned beef, lamb, sausage, steak, roast beef…or any other leftovers!
Top Places To Eat Edinburgh Stovies
In our opinion, cozy and dimly lit pubs are the best places to enjoy Stovies on a dreary day.
The Last Drop – an atmospheric restaurant with exposed brick – makes excellent Stovies. Prepared with beef rib, potatoes and root vegetables, their slow-cooked Stovies are served with bread and seasonal greens.
#9 Fresh Fish and Seafood
Not surprisingly, seafood is a staple of Scottish cooking. There is more than 6,000 miles of coastline in Scotland and fishing is a major industry.
With Edinburgh’s prime location right off the sea, fresh fish is a highlight of the local cuisine. Haddock and Atlantic Salmon are two of the most popular types of fish in Scotland.
Where To Eat Fresh Seafood in Edinburgh
Fishers is often touted as the best seafood restaurant in Edinburgh. Fishers in the City is located in New Town, but we preferred the original Fishers in Leith. The oysters and scallops are top starters, but you could go all in with the Seafood Platter!
The Kitchin, also in Leith, is an upscale Edinburgh Michelin star restaurant run by Scottish chef, Tom Kitchin. Diners can feast on a multi-course surprise tasting menu or order seafood items a la carte.
#10 Scottish Hog Roast Roll
Although a pulled pork sandwich might not be the first thing to come to mind when thinking about what to eat in Edinburgh, the hog roast roll is a surprisingly big hit!
Top Edinburgh Spot for Pulled Pork
The hog roast roll catapulted onto the scene with a food stall at the Castle Terrace Farmer’s Market in 2001.
Since then, the creators behind these popular pork sandwiches have opened multiple venues under the name Oink – with Oink Victoria Street being the most convenient for travelers.
These slow-cooked pork rolls come in three sizes – piglet, oink or grunter. What separates these from the rest is the unusual (but so Scottish) toppings of haggis, apple sauce and crackling!
#11 Scottish Cheese Macaroni
Many nations lay claim to Macaroni and Cheese – from the US to Switzerland to Italy. While Scotland is not claiming to have created the dish, the locals certainly seem to crave it!
The best mac and cheese is baked in the oven with Scottish cheese and a breadcrumb topping. Some restaurants take it up a notch, adding sauteed mushrooms, lobster, truffles or chili jam.
In an even bolder move, pastry chefs are packing pies full of macaroni and cheese. At places like the aforementioned Piemaker, the Mac and Cheese Pie is one of their best sellers.
Where To Eat Mac and Cheese in Edinburgh
MUMS Great Comfort Food gets rave reviews for their Scottish macaroni and cheese. At MUMS, the dish is paired with fries for a fully carb-loaded meal.
We preferred eating creamy macaroni cheese at a classic pub. The best we tasted was at the Volunteer Arms Pub in nearby Dunbar.
In Edinburgh, The White Hart Inn or the delightfully quirky Roseleaf Bar Cafe in Leith, make great macaroni and cheese, too.
#12 Nachos
No, we haven’t lost the plot. Nachos seem to be a thing in Edinburgh. Although we were left scratching our heads trying to make the connection, we couldn’t resist ordering some.
Admittedly, we didn’t have big expectations, but were pleasantly surprised by the generous portions and the all important chip-to-topping ratio.
Places To Eat Edinburgh Nachos
Without any doubt, The Auld Hoose is the best restaurant in Edinburgh for nachos. Their legendary Gigantic Nachos – either meat, veggie or vegan – is a literal mound of goodness!
#13 Sausage and Mash
A regional dish in the UK and Ireland, Sausage and Mash (or Bangers and Mash) is a classic meal of thick pork links and mashed potatoes covered in an onion gravy. Sometimes the meal is served with a side of peas.
Prime Places To Eat Edinburgh Sausage and Mash
Chefs at pubs and upscale restaurants cook up a tasty platter of sausage and mash. However, our pick is Makars Gourmet Mash Bar.
Here they use local ingredients to create an array of flavor combinations. You choose a meat (or veg option) and then pair it with a choice of mashed potatoes.
Our top combination is the Wild Boar Sausage with the Smoked Bacon and Spring Onion Mash. The Stornoway Black Pudding Mash also gets rave reviews.
#14 Scotch Eggs
It may be somewhat surprising (and nonsensical), but Scotch Eggs are not Scottish. They are actually an English culinary treat. All the same, Scotch Eggs are eaten throughout the country as pub snacks.
Where To Eat Scotch Eggs in Edinburgh
The Innis and Gunn Brewery Taproom makes incredible Scotch Eggs. The free-range egg is coated in sausage and black pudding and served with Brown Sauce.
For a unique take head to Mellis Cheesemongers, where they offer a fun variety – including haggis, chorizo and vegetarian.
#15 Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea is a great British tradition and prevalent throughout Scotland, as well. Finger sandwiches, scones and other sweet nibbles are served on a tiered tray alongside tea or champagne.
Typically, the ‘in between’ meal is had in the late afternoon as a snack to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner. However, in many Edinburgh restaurants, it’s available from lunchtime until early evening.
Best Places To Get Edinburgh Afternoon Tea
The Witchery is the most elegant place to have afternoon tea in Edinburgh. Only available on weekdays from 3 to 4pm, tea and hand-crafted bites are served in a gorgeous candlelit dining room.
At The Dome, afternoon tea is enjoyed in the classic Georgian Tea Room from 12 noon until 5pm. Those looking for a traditional tea experience will find it at The Dome.
Brewhemia serves afternoon tea with a twist. The sandwiches and pastries are non-traditional and the ambiance is casual. Plus, they offer a special Gentlemen’s Tea, which features heartier pub fare and tank beer. Seating’s are at noon, 2pm and 4pm.
#16 Sunday Roast
The tradition of Sunday Roast in the United Kingdom dates to medieval times. The big meal consists of a succulent meat, gravy, roasted potatoes, root vegetables and Yorkshire pudding.
Best Scottish Restaurant in Edinburgh for Sunday Roast
While there is no shortage of places offering Sunday Roast in Edinburgh, we recommend going to The Ox. The gastropub serves delectable meals alongside a wide array of craft beers and lovely wines.
The Queens Arms also gets high marks for their Sunday Roast. Plus, we love the cozy interior and book-lined walls!
#17 Indian Food
As a former British colony, food from India is common throughout the United Kingdom. In Edinburgh, they have an affinity for the cuisine.
Dishoom on St. Andrew Square is far and away the most popular Indian restaurant in Edinburgh. Be prepared to wait for a table, as reservations are only accepted for groups of 6 or more after 6pm.
#18 Pizza in Edinburgh
Wherever we are in the world, we almost always end up eating pizza. Sometimes it impresses, other times it falls short.
We were pleasantly surprised by Civerinos. Selling both pies and humungous slices-to-go, they make it New York style with creative topping combinations on a utterly delicious crust.
Edinburgh travelers on a budget will want to swing by 2£ Pizza Slice for a tasty value bite on-the-go.
#19 Best Burgers in Edinburgh
The award-winning Lioness of Leith is our favorite place for a superb 100% Scotch beef burger from Burger Mama. We go with The Future and an Old Skool.
Jeremiah’s Tap Room, which is known for a super lineup of craft beer, also serves excellent burgers. Order the Jeremiah Junction and add a Haggis fritter!
Bread Meats Bread is a family-run chain in Scotland that features regional ingredients. Try the signature Wolf Burger, which is topped with pulled pork and come with a side a poutine!
#20 Cranachan
Cranachan is an iconic Scottish dessert made of raspberries, cream, whisky and oatmeal. Popular in June when raspberries are in season, the parfait is a divinely sweet treat. Try it at Whiski Bar and Restaurant.
#21 Scones
The humble scone – pronounced scon in Scotland – may be English, but it is derived from Scottish Bannock (an oat-based flatbread).
Our recommendation for the best Edinburgh scones is Café Portrait located within the National Scottish Portrait Gallery.
#22 Sticky Toffee Pudding
It’s heavily debated where sticky toffee pudding originates – Scotland or England. All the same, the British dessert has seen a quick rise to fame, as it is a relatively new creation.
The basics of sticky toffee pudding – or STP – is sponge cake with dates, covered in toffee sauce and served with ice cream.
The Doric Tavern – a historic pub that dates to the 17th century – is famous for their indulgent sticky toffee pudding.
#23 Scottish Shortbread
Shortbread biscuits – also called fingers or shorties – are Scotland’s most well-known sweet treat. The cookie is said to have been created by none other than Mary, Queen of Scots in the 16th century.
While delicious plain, it’s even better incorporated into a decadent treat called a Millionaire’s Bar. With a shortbread base, the cookie is topped with gooey caramel and then a thin layer of chocolate. It’s worth every, single, calorie.
It’s not difficult to find the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness – just pop into any store or bakery. Alternatively, order some from the Shortbread House of Edinburgh!
#24 Tea and Cakes
Many cafes in Edinburgh serve tea and cake – but none as famous as The Elephant House. A true treat for Harry Potter fans, it claims to be the ‘birthplace’ of Harry Potter.
JK Rowling was a frequent customer and would often write here. And, yes, they have Butter Beer, too!
#25 Ice Cream
If you are lucky enough to visit Edinburgh on a sunny day (and even if you’re not), an afternoon ice cream is likely in order.
Without a doubt, the best place for ice cream in Edinburgh is Mary’s Milk Bar, where they make gelato and chocolate fresh daily.
Edinburgh Food Markets
Edinburgh is home to numerous markets – most of which are open on either Saturday or Sunday. The Edinburgh Farmers Market – a top spot for local Scottish produce – is a Saturday morning event located on the castle terrace.
Other area pop-up produce markets are the Leith Market (Saturdays 10-4), the Grassmarket Market (Saturdays 10-5) and the Stockbridge Market (Sundays 10-4).
Edinburgh Street Food hosts several of the top eateries in the city under one roof for a foodie bonanza!
The space is hip and lively with ample edible options, plus a full bar. The patio is a hopping spot on sunny summer evenings, but they offer plenty of indoor seating, too.
What To Drink in Edinburgh
We’ve covered what to eat in Edinburgh, but what about drinking in Scotland? We are sharing a few of the must-try beverages and where to get them!
Irn Bru
Irn-Bru – or Iron Brew, as it was originally called – is a Scottish soft drink that is wildly popular with locals.
The carbonated beverage was created in 1901 – and still outsells Coca-Cola in Scotland. Bright orange in color, the taste is…distinct and difficult to describe. So, it’s best to just try it for yourself!
Scotch Whisky
Whisky is the national drink of Scotland – and there are currently more than 150 distilleries in the country. All Scotch Whisky is made from malted barley, and it must be matured for at least 3 years in oak barrels.
Novices just dipping their toes into the wonderful world of Scotch have ample opportunities to taste whisky in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Whisky Tastings
The Scotch Whisky Experience is a Disneyesque, whirlwind introduction, where you are whisked away in a barrel and then on to the tasting room.
Whisky and Folklore is a guided affair in a family-run pub. While sampling multiple tastings from a variety of regions, you’ll be entertained with classic Scottish storytelling.
Those who prefer a stylish escapade from a major brand can go to Johnnie Walker Princes Street, where they offer complete whisky packages.
At Holyrood Distillery they produce both gin and whisky. Visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at the production and have the chance to taste both products, as well.
You can also get a tailored whisky tasting experience at The Black Cat. The New Town pub offers set flights or you can let the bartender know what you like (and how much you want to spend) and they will create one for you!
Edinburgh Craft Beer
Visitors can enjoy craft beer in many pubs and bars in Edinburgh. After some in-depth research, we are sharing a few of our favorite places!
Tucked right below the Edinburgh Castle in the bar laden Grassmarket District, Cold Town House Brewery makes beer on site using local ingredients.
Low-key and relaxed, Campervan is an absolute gem! Situated within a business park in Leith, the inconspicuous space has limited hours Thursday through Sunday. You can get their beer at Lost in Leith 7 days a week.
Hailing from Perth, Innis and Gunn features an impressive list of beers, from their popular lager to cask matured brews to fruity IPAs.
At Moonwake Beer Company they create a fun line up of beers that can be enjoyed inside their bright and colorful brewery or outside in the Taproom Yard.
A microbrewery hidden in a residential district, Bellfield Brewery specializes in making gluten-free beers.
Brewed in Aberdeen, but served up fresh in their Rose Street Tap Room, Fierce Beer is bringing the craft beer revolution straight into the heart of New Town.
Cocktails in Edinburgh
Travelers that fancy a cocktail will not be disappointed! There are several bars in Edinburgh that serve hand-crafted creations is chic settings.
The Devil’s Advocate on Advocate’s Close is a top pick for whisky cocktails. At Bramble, their drinks list is slightly eccentric and absolutely fabulous. Panda and Sons – a speakeasy posing as a barbershop – creates cocktails that are quirky and delish!
Map of Edinburgh: What To Eat and Where
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Things To Eat in Edinburgh Map below.
Tours and Tips for Eating in Edinburgh, Scotland
Now that you know what and where to eat in Edinburgh, we have a few final tips for your visit to Scotland.
Tipping in Edinburgh
For restaurants and pubs that provide table service, it is appreciated to leave a tip (10% is fine). In many Edinburgh restaurants, a service charge (typically 10-12%) is already included, so check the bill or ask your server.
Reservations in Edinburgh
Bookings are essential – especially in the summertime. Some of the most popular restaurants are booked out weeks in advance and even neighborhood pubs completely fill up for dinner.
Also, many kitchens close by 9pm, so if you’re visiting Edinburgh in the summer, don’t let the long days fool you into missing dinner all together!
Secret Food Tour of Edinburgh
On the Secret Food Tour participants get to taste variety of Scottish dishes and Edinburgh famous food – including haggis!
Edinburgh Food and Drink Tour
The local guide on this Food and Drink Tour leads you through Old Town and New Town to 5 establishments – 4 of which include a beverage pairing!
Edinburgh Travel Tips
Finding the best things to eat in Edinburgh is just one step in planning your trip. You also need to plan for attractions, where to stay and how to get there!
We share our honest advice on what to see and do in our 3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary. This includes Edinburgh Freebies, like our walking tours of the Royal Mile and New Town.
Planning a Complete Itinerary for Scotland? Excellent! Be sure to get prepared with our Scotland Travel Tips and detailed guides to Glasgow, Inverness (and the Highlands), East Coast Scotland and Isle of Skye.
Those heading to Europe for the first time – or the first time in a long time – should start with our guide to Planning a Trip to Europe.
To stay on top of all the important details, we also suggest using our printable Travel Planner!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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