With restrictions eased enough to enjoy a hearty meal in the capital, where should you head for the best cuisine Edinburgh has to offer?
TripAdvisor has all the answers, as we have collated a list of the top ten best restaurants in the capital, as chosen by their consumers.
#10 – The Piper’s Rest Public House – Royal Mile
Rated at #10 out of 1,755 restaurants in the city, The Piper’s Rest is a traditional British public house with a more Scottish twist.
In the description, the owners have stated that ‘ A’body’s welcome at Piper’s, from the lone wanderer, happy couples, families or groups on a night out.’
Reviews have sung the restaurants praises, with the waiters/waitresses service as good as the ‘traditional Scottish foods’., with one reviewer saying ‘ First time trying a deep fried Mars bar and it did not disappoint.’
#9 – Pataka – Causewayside
This stunning Indian restaurant is situated just down from the University of Edinburgh, and sits at number 9 on the scale of best restaurants in the capital.
Key points of Pataka would be the superb staff that work within the premises, and the amazing selection of different food on offer, with options for gluten free, vegan and those who require halal food.
Other elements of this restaurant include Asian and Bangladeshi cuisine, making it an extremely diverse restaurant.
#8 – Dine – Cambridge Street
Located just down from popular attractions like Camera Obscura and the National Museum of Scotland, this contemporary restaurant is perfect for business lunches, pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Started by award winning Michelin starred chef Stuart Muir (former executive chef of Harvey Nichols and The Old Course Hotel. St Andrews), Dine has created a series of menus full of contemporary twists on classic dishes, always with a focus on local, sustainable and, above all, quality ingredients.
One reviewer described their experience as ‘excellent, brilliant atmosphere and the food was spectacular.’
So, if you want a step up in dining, Dine is the place to be!
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#7 – The Table – Dundas Street
Half a mile from Princes Street, this interactive form of dining is perfect for groups of people who enjoy trying new cuisine.
Specialising in European dining especially, The Table is a small but exclusive way to explore many different dishes in the one night, with their multi-course tasting menu.
Reviewers have said that the chefs are imaginative, the hospitality is excellent and the food is absolutely outstanding.
If you are looking for a totally new experience, then The Table is for you.
#6 – Salt Cafe – Morningside Road
At the Salt Cafe, they are all about seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully sourced from exceptional local artisanal producers and suppliers, to create the best possible brunch experience for their customers.
Exceptionally affordable, this cafe does brunch to its best ability, as their slogan stands ‘ if a thing is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.’
Reviews sit at 5 stars across the board, with customers stating ‘These guys know what they’re doing and they’re doing it brilliantly.’
Vegan, Gluten-free and dog friendly, this cafe is welcoming to everyone.
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#5 – Boteco Do Brasil – Lothian Street
Winner of 2018 &2019 Best Late Night Bar in Scotland, the Boteco Do Brasil is a lively pub and restaurant with a nightclub-like atmosphere.
‘Boteco’ in its native language means the friendly neighbourhood bar with lively music and atmosphere, and that is exactly what the owners at Boteco Do Brasil have replicated in the capital of Scotland.
Reviewed highly, the customers have described it as ‘very polished and staff were friendly and chatty, definitely felt like an authentic Brazilian experience.’
If a vibrant nightlife is what you’re missing, then this exciting pub and restaurant is right up your alley!
#4 – New Chapter – Eyre Place New Town
New Chapter, situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, offers a modern menu which mixes European influences with Scottish produce.
The owners have described it as a ‘family-run restaurant and a hidden gem, much loved by locals and visitors alike because of our warm, friendly service and delicious food.’
Rated at 5 stars across the sections of food, service and value, customers have said ‘Delighted this is my neighbourhood restaurant!’
If you are ever travelling through the area, then New Chapter is one you cannot miss out on.
#3 – One20 Wine Cafe – Dundas Street
A unique addition to the streets of Edinburgh, this family-run wine cafe is #3 on our top 10 list of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.
With a passion for wine and exquisite food alike, this restaurant is an elegant and relaxing meeting place for businesses, friends and family alike, with everyone welcome inside the doors of One20.
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Reviews set it apart from other contenders, stating ‘ just a classy place with great ambience, really nice and efficient staff and lovely food. It is popular and rightly so.’
So, if you are looking for a step up in elegance and class, then One20 is the place to be.
#2 – Makars Gourmet Mash Bar – North Bank Street
The Makars Gourmet Mash Bar has been described as an Edinburgh “legend” , “culinary hero” & “local gem”, and the reviews stand behind each of these points.
Winner of UK TripAdvisor restaurant 2018,19 & 20, the Makars Mash Bar is one of Edinburgh’s last independent family business and aims to work with local suppliers whenever possible.
Reviews have set this independent restaurant from others, stating ‘Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the Wee Donkey! You have to go, the food gets better every time we visit. Excellent service, always very friendly. Couldn’t ask for more. We will see you at Hogmanay!’
#1 – Skyline Restaurant – Tynecastle Park
And finally, the one you’ve all been waiting for…the number one restaurant to visit in Edinburgh is the on-location restaurant at the home of Edinburgh football team, Heart of Midlothian Football Club.
The Skyline Restaurant is located on the top floor at Tynecastle Park, and offers stunning views of the Edinburgh skyline – and a range of delicious, fixed price two and three-course meals.
One cheeky reviewer stated that ‘Hopefully, one day Hearts will be as good on the pitch as their hospitality is off it, Bravo Skyline. My compliments to the Chefs, John and all the staff.’
You can check out all of the restaurants listed above, and hundreds more on the TripAdvisor website.