Neighbourhood restaurants in the Scottish capital make the most of the fresh and delicious produce the country is known for. Diners return time again for stunning seafood, seasonal vegetables and innovative cooking methods. Leith residents can turn to gastropub fare in a beautiful setting; a Southside pizza place is a favourite for its signature dough and inventive toppings. In Morningside, an eclectic watering hole and its interesting clientele has captured the imagination of diners from all over the world.
Read on for 10 stellar neighbourhood restaurants across Edinburgh.
Forage & Chatter (West End)
Like the name suggests, much of the menu at this cosy West End restaurant is foraged. Well executed dishes including beef fillet tartare and Orkney scallop ceviche celebrate bountiful Scottish ingredients and seasonal flavours. Plus, the forest green decor of the basement interior, exposed stone walls and twinkling candlelight lend an intimate vibe here, popular for romantic date nights and catch ups with friends. Get comfortable among reclaimed wood furniture and tweed soft furnishings and enjoy a tour of some of Scotland’s finest produce.
Greenwoods (Central)
A local gem with a European heritage, Greenwoods opened in May 2021 under the helm of director Jen Nelson, who brought the brand over to Edinburgh from Amsterdam, where it has flourished since the 1980s. Now, it is the go to for beautifully plated breakfasts and brunch around Frederick Street. Tuck into a menu of Scottish and Dutch treats, such as kedgeree or appeltaart, served with whipped cream. Drinks include different hot chocolates and house tea blends, for example the Mona Lisa smile, a mix of green tea, roses and strawberry.
White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar (Royal Mile)
For showstopping Scottish seafood, White Horse along the historic Royal Mile is a no-brainer for locals. Come for the oyster happy hour – which is available from 4pm to 5pm on the weekdays and on Sundays from midday to 5pm – they are ordered fresh daily and sell out fast. Stay for small plates including the crab scotch egg, or ‘beef and oyster’ – a dish of rump steak with oyster tempura – before moving on to platters towering with lobster, scallops, prawns and mussels. Be sure to also grab a cocktail from the bar. The pacific gin martini, with Roku gin, sherry, sea salt, pickled samphire and seaweed mist is a natural extension of the food with its seaside flavours.
The Voyage of Buck (West End)
Every neighbourhood has that one venue with a backstory that gives it a bit of an edge. At Voyage of Buck, it’s the invented – but fun – tale of fictional William “Buck” Clarence whose travels inspire the bar’s eclectic interior and its delectable cocktails, such as the optical negroni or the peach and basil sour. Kick things off with a tipple from the drinks menu – divided into five cities showcasing the flavours, emotions and people Buck ‘encountered’ on his voyages. Next, dig into gastropub classics including corn-fed chicken with potatoes and mango and beer battered hake with stem broccoli. The sticky toffee pudding is a solid option to complete any meal.
The Olive Branch (New Town / Broughton)
At The Olive Branch on the ever-desirable Broughton Street, expect a homey and friendly vibe which, together with a European menu, make it a popular place for repeat brunches, lunches and dinners. The large windows, exposed brick walls, and wooden furniture give a casual atmosphere, while the food is anything but. Start the day with a daily pasta or soup. Later on, heartier fare includes the haunch of venison with dauphinoise potatoes and the house burger which are both popular choices among regulars.
The Black Grape (Royal Mile)
Since it opened on the old Pancho Villa site earlier in 2023, restaurateur Murray Ainslie’s first solo venture (he has formerly directed operations at Edinburgh institutions, The White Horse Oyster Bar and Chop House) has quickly generated a loyal fan base. In addition to a 40-seat restaurant, ideal for catch-ups, the Black Grape also has a wine and cocktail bar made for date nights and intimate dining. The kitchen slings out small plates such as tom yum slaw, chicken yakitori and prawn tempura alongside drinks including the signature sour grapes – a mix of black grape, haku vodka, lemon and sauternes. Throw in a smooth soundtrack of funk and soul and you’ve got a place people just can’t help but come back to.
SEN Vietnamese (Newington)
A minimalist interior with dark colours, abstract art and interesting lighting lets the food really stand out at this small Vietnamese restaurant. A statement paper lantern-style light installation transports diners to the cool cocktail bars of Hoi An, while the menu bursts with fresh flavours that keep a regular crowd. Graze on prawn-packed summer rolls and papaya beef jerky salad, before moving onto larger plates such as classic phở and bun, vermicelli with grilled pork and salad. The crispy sea bass and the pork and egg curry both make ideal sharing options.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant (Leith)
A stunning Victorian building complete with stained glass, antiques and naval accents which nod to Leith’s rich maritime history make this gastropub a must-visit. The plant-filled space offers a menu full of brunch classics including shakshuka and croque madame as well as pastas and burgers. Dinner options veer towards seasonal seafood; try the roasted North Sea cod, hot smoked salmon or beer battered haddock. On Sundays, locals gather to enjoy roasts which feature a different meat or vegetarian option every week. Craft beers are also abundant, perfect to sample with creative bar snacks such as curried popcorn and juicy corn ribs.
Pizza Posto (Southside)
While this is an Edinburgh institution, it’s not just locals who flock to Pizza Posto for the clay-oven fired Neapolitan pizza. Its slow rising multi-cereal dough is so loved that the restaurant has won awards – most notably the 2017 best pizzeria at the Scottish Italian Awards. Diners can choose from traditional toppings on a red or white base, or house specials. Go for the cream of pistachio base, with mozzarella confit tomatoes, cheese and mortadella, or the stunning fried calzone stuffed with salami and ham. Round off the meal with small bites such as bruschetta and aubergine parmigiana. The restaurant’s urban chic decor and casual stool seating make it an ideal spot for a flying solo lunch or a casual hang with your crew. Larger tables allow for the ultimate pizza party.
The Canny Man’s (Morningside)
Get a true taste of history at the Canny Man’s pub, which was established by James Kerr in 1871 and has been serving residents of Morningside and beyond, ever since. The Canny Man’s (a fond nickname for the beloved watering hole) is so entrenched in local mythology that its original name, The Volunteer Arms, has all but been forgotten. Look out for trinkets and souvenirs from punters over the years, while taking in original period features. The pub also offers food from an eclectic series of rooms, including the romantic alcove and sports-focused Number 4 Room. The 20-year-old specialty is the smørrebrød open sandwiches; served on soda or rye bread. Choose from 24 options such as the chicken salad, seafood medley, and the sharp end – creamy smoked haddock with egg and croutons, or build your own.
Shekha Vyas is a London-based reporter, writing about business, lifestyle, and food. Follow her on Instagram at @shekhav or on TikTok at @tastingbritain.
