Chizuru Tei
The interior is humble, but Chizuru Tei may just have the best sushi in Edinburgh. Sea-fresh fish is sliced for all to see at a classic sushi counter and presented in zoomorphic rolls, it almost seems a shame to eat. There are some satisfying sticky teriyaki and noodle dishes, and BYOB keeps the bill low.

Froth & Flame
The froth comes from locally brewed IPAs, or perhaps the foamy egg-white top of craft cocktails, and the flame is the wood-fired pizza oven at the heart of this warehouse-sized joint. Sourdough bases are topped with slices of steak, piquant salami and fresh sage, or an entire burrata. Pub-grub staples are on offer if pizza’s not your passion.

Milk
There’s an outpost at Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop and in Inverleith Park, but the original Milk stands proud here, where the coffee machine supplies a stream of West End workers. Home baking with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options supports a roster of sandwiches and avocado-topped brunch options.

Ola Kala
Part deli, part café, Ola Kala serves Greek pastries, mezze platters and fast, filling gyros. Honey-sweet walnut baklava and orange cakes doused in basil syrup are highlights from the adjacent Ola Orea bakery. With little table space, takeaway is king here, but service is fast so it’s rarely a long wait for a seat.

Vietnam House
On nearby Grove Street, Vietnam House is a cosy lantern-filled spot for casual dining. Traditional crispy pancakes taste just like originals from the streets of Hanoi and salads are infused with chilli, lime and mint. Noodle soups and creamy curries provide heartier options for chilly evenings. The dated décor just adds to the charm.