7 bars and restaurants with great views across Edinburgh
Drink in your surroundings (and your drinks) in these restaurants with awe-inspiring views of the city
The Caledonian Hotel, Princes Street
This ravishing room has gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street that vie with Dean Banks’ carefully plated, technically precise food. Stunning frescoes and ceilings make the whole thing a feast for the eye, while solicitous service cossets. One for blow-outs and very special occasions.
Margot
7-8 Barclay Terrace
Younger sister of the much-loved LeftField (around the corner), Margot is a relaxed café by day and wine bar by night. From here the views of Bruntsfield Links and Arthur’s Seat are gorgeous, particularly with a few small plates and a glass of organic wine. It's a relaxing haven, particularly special as the sun goes down while you watch the busy links ebb and flow eith golfers and walkers.
Nor’Loft
6 Market Street
This seventh-floor champagne lounge located on the rooftop of Market Street is world’s away from busy Waverley station below. Open throughout the day, Nor’Loft serves breakfast and daytime sharing platters to go with the city’s longest champagne list. Try a blini platter with cured trout, smoked salmon and Katy Rodgers crème fraîche. If it's warm, bag a seat on the balcony for views of the whole city centre.
The Outsider
15–16 George IV Bridge
The Old Town’s bridges and changing levels means The Outsider’s perfect Castle views can come as a surprise to first-time visitors; it’s one of the best ways to appreciate the city’s jumbled yet beautiful roof-lines. On the plate are modern European classics, with daily changing menus and a memorably witty wine list to enjoy too.
SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh
1 St James Square
Situated on the 10th floor of W Edinburgh, SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh offers a unique fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine, accompanied by a vibrant mix of culture, music and design. Its dynamic interiors include a signature restaurant and bar adorned with the iconic SUSHISAMBA tree sculpture, a chef's table and an outdoor terrace boasting panoramic views of Edinburgh's iconic skyline.
Also try... Joao's Place, also in the W Edinburgh hotel, for equally sweeping views and the skyline bar at Port Of Leith Distillery for panoramic port views.
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.
Main picture: Margot / Ailsa Sheldon