Edinburgh’s independent restaurants form its charismatic heart and mirror its many neighbourhoods. Decadent burgers on George Street, Canadian poutine in Newtown, and oysters at the oldest restaurant on the Royal Mile are just some of the delicious standouts you can find in the Scottish capital.
To celebrate the city’s culinary heroes, OpenTable and Mastercard launched Dine Local — an invitation to support the independent restaurants that are synonymous with Edinburgh’s cosmopolitan soul. Book your table at a Dine Local restaurant between 23rd October and 19th November, and keep an eye out for exclusive Dine Local experiences.
Read on for a guide to participating Dine Local restaurants that celebrate the spirit of Edinburgh’s eclectic communities, one meal at a time.
Read on for the best independent restaurants in Edinburgh.
Butta Burger – George Street (George Street)
For next-level comfort food, try Butta Burger on George Street
Butta Burger is a labour of love from former nightclub promoters Simon Bays and Graham Atkinson. After making waves as a ghost kitchen, the pair finally opened their first brick-and-mortar on George Street in 2021. Locals come in droves for next-level burgers (they’re basted with rich seasoned butter), wings, and fries, best paired with a cocktail or milkshake. The hip spot is unfussy and minimalist, which means the rich American food takes centre stage. For Dine Local, Butta Burger is offering a 10 percent discount between 12 pm and 3 pm.
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The White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar (Royal Mile)
Dig into sensational seafood platters at The White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar on Royal Mile
The White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar is a living testament to Edinburgh’s past, and dates back to 1742—it was originally named after Mary Queen of Scots’s beloved horse. The local landmark is now steered by Mark Fraser and Michael Spink (of Chop House fame) and a go-to for its famous oyster happy hour from Sunday to Friday. Come early for the discounted apps and drinks—they sell out fast—and stay for sensational platters of scallops, prawns, and mussels. The seafood pairs exceptionally well with the Pacific Gin Martini, featuring ocean-inspired accents like sea salt and seaweed mist. Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles during Dine Local after 8:30 pm on Monday to Friday, or between 12 pm and 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
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Shish (Old Town)
Experience a royal Turkish feast at Shish in Old Town
A Turkish feast awaits at Shish, where the opulent gold and blue accents set the stage for a regal meal. The restaurant is near the University of Edinburgh, making it especially popular with the academic crowd. Founders Itz Humayun and Afzal Boskh were inspired by a communal hearth, so expect charcoal-grilled chops, steaks, kebabs, and vegetarian mezze galore. The restaurant’s dry bar (read: non-alcoholic drinks) stands out on Edinburgh’s southside, with an extensive selection of de-alcholised wines, beers and ciders as well as cocktails. As part of Dine Local, diners can enjoy a complimentary drink from a curated drinks selection until 19th November.
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Down the Hatch – Antigua Street (Newtown)
Treat yourself to killer Canadian diner at Down the Hatch – Antigua Street in Newtown
Down the Hatch’s Antigua Street location is the second branch of the Canadian-themed diner—a tribute to the country’s big flavours and world-famous friendly vibes. Owner Neal Davies, a Canadian who has lived in Scotland for 14 years, created a playful space filled with hockey jerseys, posters, moose motifs and maple leaves. The signature dish is, of course, Canada’s national dish, poutine, available with either vegetarian or beef gravy. Mix in maple syrup and bacon, or give it a Scottish twist by adding haggis. Keep an eye out for regular promos like £6 boozy slushies and Wings Wednesdays, when 10 wings are £8.50.
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Monteiths (Royal Mile)
For a distinctly Scottish spread, try Monteiths on Royal Mile
This Edinburgh staple has fed the community quality steaks and seafood since 2007. Restaurateur Michael Spink’s award-winning Royal Mile restaurant is heavy on Scottish-inspired touches like plaid, shearling, and leather interior accents. Highlands pride also pops up on the menu in the form of hot-smoked salmon, potato dumplings, and a knockout poached pear and rosemary oatcake dessert. As part of Dine Local, pair your experience with a complimentary glass of bubbles when you book after 8.30pm (Monday to Friday) or between 12 to 4pm (Saturday and Sunday).
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Shekha Vyas is a London-based reporter, writing about business, lifestyle, and food. Follow her on Instagram at @shekhav or on TikTok at @tastingbritain.
