While you’re in Edinburgh, you have to try some traditional Scottish cuisine. It is much more varied than many travellers imagine: haggis, salmon, quality meat, traditional soups, seafood, pub classics, hearty desserts and, of course, a good selection of whisky.
If it’s your first visit, set aside at least one meal to try the best-known dishes. Haggis, neeps and tatties is the great classic, but you will also find Cullen skink, steak pie, cranachan, Scottish salmon and modern dishes made with local produce, in places ranging from historic pubs to upmarket restaurants.
These are some of the best restaurants for traditional Scottish food in Edinburgh.
1. The Scran & Scallie
1 Comely Bank Road, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1DR
The Scran & Scallie is one of the best places in Edinburgh to enjoy Scottish food in a pub setting, but of a much higher standard than a traditional pub. This stylish gastropub is in Stockbridge, one of the nicest neighbourhoods in the city, a little away from the Royal Mile but well worth it if you want to get off the tourist trail.
It is especially well known for classic Scottish dishes with a refined twist, using seasonal produce from excellent local suppliers, the perfect balance between comfort food and a more polished dining experience.
The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming and family-friendly, and it is very popular, so it’s best to book, especially at weekends and in high season. If you’ve already tried the pubs in the Old Town and want a more complete dining experience, The Scran & Scallie is a very safe bet.
2. The White Hart Inn
34 Grassmarket (Old Town), Edinburgh EH1 2JU
You can try haggis in many places in Edinburgh, but the White Hart Inn is a particularly good choice. It claims to be the oldest pub in Edinburgh, dating back to 1516, and is one of the historic pubs of the Grassmarket.
Many famous figures have stayed here, including Oliver Cromwell, William Wordsworth and Robert Burns himself, on whose birthday Scots traditionally eat haggis at a Burns Supper. There are also regular Scottish folk music nights, and, like many pubs in Edinburgh, it is said to be haunted!
Check the day’s menu for dishes and prices, and finish your meal with a beer or a whisky before heading up Victoria Street.
3. The Haggis Box
Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
The Haggis Box is perfect if you want to try haggis in Edinburgh in a quick, simple and central way. It is inside the Scottish Storytelling Centre, right on the Royal Mile, so it is very handy if you are exploring the Old Town, the Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral or Canongate.
Its speciality is haggis, neeps and tatties: haggis served with mashed swede and mashed potato. It is one of Scotland’s most traditional dishes and one of the best ways to discover local food without booking a table.
As well as traditional haggis, there are usually vegetarian and vegan options. If you want to try haggis for the first time in an easy, central and fuss-free way, it is one of the best options on the Royal Mile.
4. Copper Still
154 High Street (Old Town), Edinburgh EH1 1QS
In this pub-restaurant on the Royal Mile you can try the most typical Scottish dishes and enjoy one of the best whisky collections in Edinburgh.
The haggis is delicious and prepared in the traditional way, served with neeps and tatties (there’s a vegetarian option too!). Great quality and elegance on the main street of the Old Town.
5. Pibroch
20 Holyrood Road (Old Town), Edinburgh EH8 8AF
In this Old Town restaurant you will find home cooking, the most typical Scottish dishes and generous portions for a tasty, hearty meal. Very reasonable prices and a good choice of dishes.
If you are looking for a restaurant to try Scotland’s most traditional food, it’s a fantastic option.
6. Angels with Bagpipes
343 High Street (Old Town), Edinburgh EH1 1PW
Located in a 16th-century building on the Royal Mile, right opposite St Giles’ Cathedral, you will feel surrounded by Scottish culture in this fine dining restaurant.
It is a mix of old and new: its historic setting is balanced with elegant, contemporary decor, lit by angel candlesticks. You will be served seasonal, local ingredients with a modern twist on traditional Scottish dishes, either à la carte or from the tasting menu, with optional wine pairings. Ideal for a romantic dinner.
7. Whiski Rooms
4-7 North Bank Street, Edinburgh EH1 2LP
As the name suggests, Whiski Rooms is a highly recommended choice if you want to sample some whisky with your meal, as it is also one of the best whisky bars in Edinburgh, with hundreds to choose from.
In the restaurant, you will be seated in a cosy bistro overlooking the New Town from the top of the Mound, with wooden furnishings and exposed stone walls to match the historic spirit of the Old Town.
The menu is full of hearty, traditional Scottish dishes made with produce from local suppliers, and changes regularly with the seasons. A unique experience if you want to immerse yourself in Scottish culture through its food and drink.
8. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
12 North Bank Street (Old Town), Edinburgh EH1 2LN
Hearty, informal Scottish food. Well-made traditional dishes at affordable prices, specialising in mash, with their own haggis, lamb and beef. Perfect if you’re hungry, as service is fast and portions are very generous.
It is usually busy, so book or arrive a little before the time you want to eat to make sure you get a table.
