Throughout its illustrious history as one of Europe’s great cities, Edinburgh doesn’t fall short when it comes to outstanding restaurants. The city has carved a niche for itself in the realm of food culture. With a special emphasis on healthy breakfasts or comforting meals to start the weekend right – or a boozy celebration – the best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh are dotted all over this vibrant Scottish city.
Whether you crave local delicacies in New Town or are tempted by brunch burgers infused with American and Scottish flavours on The Royal Mile, there are stellar spots for you to uncover to mark the perfect end to your morning and a great start to your afternoon.
From intimate gems perfect for a daytime date with waffles and pancakes to celebratory spots for a special occasion with friends, family, and mimosas, read on for the best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh to book on OpenTable.
The best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh to book now – read on for a guide
For a Dutch-inspired brunch – get down to Greenwoods in New Town
Greenwoods was first introduced as a restaurant in Amsterdam in the 1980s and quickly earned a reputation as one of the finest places around for a spot of breakfast, brunch and lunch. Now it’s establishing itself as a favourite in Edinburgh. The red frontage and inviting rustic interior really set the scene for a relaxing breakfast or brunch. Here you can enjoy classic breakfast options, such as eggs benedict and traditional Dutch apple pie. Elsewhere on the menu, diners can discover a traditional Scottish fry-up, a delightful stack of savoury pancakes adorned with bacon, sausage and eggs, or the healthier option of chia seed pudding. Over lunchtime, indulgent sandwiches take the spotlight, featuring options such as the cajun melt or the BBQ kimchi ciabatta. For those seeking a more classic experience, Greenwoods also offers a traditional cream tea. The drinks selection, meanwhile, spans everything from coffee and fresh juices to a variety of wines, beers and brunch cocktails.
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For one of the best family-friendly spots in Edinburgh – try Mimi’s Bakehouse in Corstorphine and Leith
If you’re looking for the best brunch in Edinburgh for a family gettogether, look no further than Mimi’s Bakehouse in Corstorphine and Leith. Founded in 2010, this second-generation family-run gem provides a warm welcome as soon as you enter that feels like getting a homely hug. Now one of the city’s best-loved bakeries, you can enjoy fantastic breakfast and lunch options here. Offering brunch throughout the day, along with award-winning afternoon tea and a kids’ menu, there’s also an extensive selection of specialty beverages and cakes to choose from. Check out the avocado toast with free-range poached eggs, Spanish chorizo and feta cheese and don’t miss the homemade crumpets with poached eggs, veggie haggis, smoked salmon, bacon and black pudding. The drinks menu boasts impressive fizz, spritz and lemon and lime cocktails.
📍 Corstorphine — Check availability
📍 Leith — Check availability
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For one of the best brunch places in Edinburgh with Instagram-worthy interiors – visit The Ivy on the Square in Old Town
Old Town’s The Ivy on the Square is a brasserie-style spot with an English spin, serving classic British food with an air of opulence and elegance in Edinburgh’s beautiful centre. This is a spot where you’ll find many celebrating a special occasion, in a suitably lavish setting and with a menu to match. A great place for a brunch date, The Ivy is an Art Deco-inspired gem in the middle of the city. With modern contemporary art and finely decorated mirrors, it makes for an inviting and glamourous place to enjoy a meal. On the food side of things, you’re spoilt for choice with the brunch specials menu, which has great options such as eggs royale with cured smoked salmon, avocado benedict and buttermilk pancakes. There’s also a tapas-style starters menu, with salt and pepper squid tempura or steak tartare. Accompany your brunch with a refreshing cocktail such as an Ivy iced tea or a blossom breeze spritz.
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For one of the best places for brunch in Edinburgh for desserts – visit Coro Chocolate Cafe in New Town
Coro Chocolate Cafe in Edinburgh is a haven for brunch enthusiasts with a sweet tooth. The chocolate-based menu here would impress even the most ardent of chocoholics, with freshly made pancakes, buttery crêpes and fluffy waffles providing a delectable canvas for a variety of toppings including cookies, ice cream and fresh fruits. If you’re in the mood for something savoury, try the bacon and egg waffles or crêpes with spinach and ham. Beyond brunch, Coro offers a sweet symphony of dessert cakes and an impressive chocolate fondue dipping bowl, making the dining experience a celebration of all things cocoa. The cafe’s atmosphere is lively, with plenty of chatter as diners feast. The minimalist but comfy interior invites guests to unwind. Whether you’re drawn to the brunch delights or enticed by the chocolatey desserts, you’re sure to leave Coro Chocolate Cafe with a smile on your face.
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For a vegetarian-friendly brunch – check out Urban Angel in New Town
Urban Angel is one of New Town’s most popular neighbourhood gems, located in a refurbished basement with a cafe space near the entrance and interconnected dining rooms towards the rear. It boasts a charming cosiness that you feel as soon as you walk in. From its inception, Urban Angel has been wholeheartedly dedicated to sourcing local organic, free-range and fairtrade ingredients. The menu is extensive, spanning breakfast and brunch, delectable cakes, sandwiches and salads, as well as hearty lunch options. The curated menu showcases small plates like falafel balls in curry and coconut emulsion, and smoked ham hock and cheddar croquettes. As for brunch classics, there are choices like avocado toast with feta and tomatoes or crispy bacon pancakes and syrup. You can even make your own breakfast or brunch by combining your favourite ingredients to make the dish of your dreams.
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For one of the best brunch spots in Edinburgh for a champagne breakfast – book a table at Côte Brasserie in New Town
Nestled in the heart of the city, Côte Brasserie blends French sophistication with a warm Scottish welcoming vibe. The restaurant has an enticing brunch menu with an array of options, from classic French pastries to hearty breakfast dishes such as classic eggs royale, benedict or florentine, as well as avocado toast and French toast. The champagne breakfast menu adds an extra touch of class, offering a delightful pairing of bubbly with carefully crafted morning dishes, as well as mimosa and bloody mary drinks. The vibe perfectly blends comfort and elegance in stylish interiors featuring contemporary design creating a lively atmosphere. Stylish furnishings and soft lighting contribute to a refined dining experience, making it an ideal setting for brunch gatherings.
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For one of the best boozy brunch places in Edinburgh – book at Hanover 71 Café & Bistro in New Town
Hanover 71 Café & Bistro is one of the best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh serving fine local cuisine in the heart of the city. The menu showcases local classics with a modern twist, like fish and chips, gourmet burgers and indulgent mac and cheese. Each bite has a distinct Edinburgh edge to it, made with meticulously selected local ingredients. The brunch menu features favourites such as smashed avocado and feta on sourdough, as well as tuna, avocado and boiled egg croissants. You can also choose from a Scottish-style or vegetarian breakfast and make it a boozy brunch with cocktails and prosecco. The bistro’s ambience effortlessly fuses rustic charm and modern elegance, creating a warm and inviting setting suitable for casual breakfasts, brunches, lunches and dinners. It’s clear that Hanover 71 takes serious pride in celebrating Edinburgh’s vibrant culture through its food.
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For a child-friendly brunch – bring the kids to Word of Mouth Cafe in Morningside
Located in the south Edinburgh district of Morningside, Word of Mouth Cafe is a contemporary European eatery celebrated for its array of classic and innovative dishes. Indulge in family-favourite brunch dishes like the French-inspired croque monsieur, croque madame and croque veggie, as well as hearty steak sandwiches and flavoursome soups of the day. For scrumptious breakfast staples like eggs benedict, royale and florentine, plus yoghurts, Belgian waffles and ciabatta sandwiches, the skilled chefs use only the finest ingredients, guaranteeing top-notch quality in every bite. The cafe boasts a friendly and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot in Edinburgh for families.
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For one of the best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh for local Scottish fare – reserve at Olive Branch in New Town
Olive Branch in New Town beckons brunch enthusiasts with a menu designed to elevate your mid-morning experience. From classic breakfast staples to inventive twists on traditional favourites, Olive Branch crafts each dish with precision and flair. Highlights from the menu include poached eggs with smoked salmon and spinach, French toast and eggs benedict with smoked bacon, as well as a must-try vegan breakfast with crushed avocado, potato scones, spinach and vegetarian haggis. The warm and inviting ambience, combined with stylish decor, creates an intimate setting ideal for a brunch date.
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For the ultimate brunch hotspot in Edinburgh – try The Huxley on the Royal Mile
The Huxley on the Royal Mile is one of the ultimate hotspots for brunches in Edinburgh. Start your day right with an enticing breakfast from the extensive menu, which offers a range of American dishes with a Scottish twist. Indulge in mouth-watering burgers, hot dogs, chorizo and feta breakfast tacos, and waffles and French toast with streaky bacon or sweet banana and Nutella. The Huxley’s hash with spicy nduja sausage, fried baby potatoes, pico de gallo salsa and poached free-range eggs, is a real show-stopper. At the Huxley, it’s not just about the food; this is an immersive experience in an inviting atmosphere making it an ideal venue for people watching or unwinding with drinks. Choose from the extensive beverage selection, featuring local beers, international wines and creative cocktails.
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Brunch can really be anything you want it to be, from long and lazy to the party that starts the weekend. Whether you’re looking for healthy bites, comfort food, local Scottish plates or classic brunch staples, the best brunch restaurants in Edinburgh have you covered.
