13 distinctive venues to eat and drink around Edinburgh
From old-school pubs and skyline cocktails to castle-view terraces, here are some top Edinburgh eating and drinking spots
Certain spots in this fair city just scream ‘Edinburgh’, whether that’s because of the views or the vintage vibes. In the city centre, in-the-know commuters head to West Register Street for a pre-train drink. This unassuming alley is home to two of Edinburgh’s most historic pubs, Café Royal and The Guildford Arms. Both are packed with original Victorian details like wood panelling, ornate ceilings and original tile murals; just as importantly, both know how to keep a decent pint. Other traditional bars include Halfway House, a tiny bar that sits midway up Fleshmarket Close’s killer steps (and so provides a handy breather on the way up to Cockburn Street). Or try The Bow Bar, resplendent in its whisky collection and utter refusal to bow to the Potter-themed nonsense that surrounds it.
Head for W Edinburgh hotel for views. Enjoy a sushi-fusion blowout at Sushisamba (try the afternoon tea for a twist on tradition) or speakeasy-cocktail vibes at rooftop bar Joao’s Place (both come with wraparound balconies). Nor’ Loft, the bar at the top of Market Street Hotel, also lays the city out before you and is particularly striking when you’re wrapped up in a blanket to enjoy the twinkly Christmas lights.
There’s plenty to look at inside The Johnnie Walker Experience, including their world-class Journey Of Flavour immersive tasting experience, but leave enough time to take in the views from 1820 Rooftop Bar with a cocktail too. Cold Town House’s terrace has both stunning castle views and a retractable glass roof for the days when the Scottish weather doesn’t play ball (which is most of the days). And if you want to reward a hike, Café Calton is worth the walk especially if the words ‘sunset’ and ‘spritz’ give you a warm glow.
Creating a quintessentially Scottish dining experience can often tread a fine line between tradition and tourist-fodder. You’re in safe hands with Howies, who’ve been working on that balance for over 30 years. In their Waterloo Place restaurant, at the foot of Calton Hill, you can enjoy that expertise in one of the city’s most striking Georgian dining rooms. Or how about dinner on a ship? Fingal is a floating hotel on a vessel that used to be owned by the Northern Lighthouse Board. It’s also home to The Lighthouse Restaurant which uses Scottish produce to create beautifully presented dishes in a truly unique venue. Their afternoon tea is also a special treat if you’re after a fancy day out.
This TipList is taken from Eat & Drink 365, our sister mag recommending the best in restaurants, bars, cafés and more across Edinburgh. Want a copy? It’s available online or across all good stockists in Scotland’s capital.