Bramble
16a Queen Street
When Bramble first appeared on Edinburgh’s dimly lit late-night drinks scene, it delivered a shot of sophistication. Craft cocktails mixed with the finesse of an alchemist use ingredients from across the globe like yuzu, turmeric and fig leaves. The rarely changing menu is tried-and-tested; the signature Bramble cocktail is a must-have.

Wedgwood The Restaurant
267 Canongate
Paul Wedgwood created this eponymous, understated benchmark for casual fine- dining in Edinburgh back in 2007. Over many years of reliable excellence, the intimate space has served up dreamy feasts of wild sorrel and rose-pink venison. They also run occasional foraging experiences, including a 5-course tasting lunch created with your East Lothian spoils.

Harajuku Kitchen
10 Gillespie Place
Harajuku Kitchen opened just over ten years ago with sea-fresh sushi rolls along with a range of other less commonly found Japanese dishes. Add a funky mural and stripped-back yet cosy Bruntsfield interior and it’s easy to see why this trendy spot has not just survived but thrived.

L’Escargot Bleu
56 Broughton Street
The pot au feu changes daily, but L’Escargot Bleu’s menu has remained roughly the same for 15 years: it’s undoubtedly the best spot in the city for steak tartare. Their rustic French fare, made with love and top-notch Scottish ingredients, always hits the spot. There’s a cute basement wine bar downstairs, too. 

David Bann Restaurant
56–58 St Mary’s Street
Long before smashed avo and aquafaba meringues ruled the world (or at least, the web), David Bann was concocting vegetarian fine dining in Edinburgh’s Old Town. A pioneer of plant-based, they’ve been delivering the quality for decades and still work wonders with crisp aubergine and meaty portobello mushrooms to create crowd-pleasing dishes.  

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