Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard
Edinburgh Futures Institute, 1 Lauriston Place
The slick transformation of the old Royal Infirmary into Edinburgh Futures Institute has brought with it this spacious all-day dining haven, overlooking leafy Meadows Walk. It’s part of Edinburgh Uni’s hospitality portfolio, which also includes Bonnar’s At The Scott and The Brasserie At The Scholar (both at Pollock Halls).

Civerinos Slice
49 Forrest Road
Inspired by New York’s slice joints, Civs usually has around 12 different pizzas on the pass, most available by the slice or pie. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’ll be short-changed by a slice though; portions are generous. The original is in nearby Hunter Square, with a beachfront spot in Portobello and latest opening in Stockbridge.

Fettle
24 Marshall Street
With signature sourdough focaccia springing regularly from their ovens, Fettle have the essentials for a mega sandwich. Fillings are fresh and generous without being too radical or wacky, with combo deals offered with soups and salads. Long wooden tables and big windows make for a busy, often student-dominated, venue.

Kalpna
2–3 St Patrick Square
This friendly vegetarian restaurant has been a city favourite since 1975 and remains a reliable spot for a South Indian feast. The set-price lunchtime buffet is great value: load your plate with butter paneer, dahl, potato curry and plenty of rice, salad, chutneys and fresh crispy dosa, with soft vermicelli pudding for afters. An equally good value evening set menu is perfect for groups.

Paolozzi Restaurant & Bar
59–61 Forrest Road
This partnership between Edinburgh Beer Factory and Gino Stornaiuolo (formerly of Nonna’s Kitchen) has got it all going on. Deceptively huge inside, there’s cracking art, small plates, gorgeous pasta and crisp pizza, all (naturally) accompanied by their own brews. The place goes like the clappers and the staff are unfailingly cheery. What’s not to love?

Söderberg Pavilion
1 Lister Square
A familiar name as you meander around Edinburgh, Soderberg’s Swedish-themed cafés and bake shops all do a mean line in rocket-fuel coffee and cardamom buns. But their flagship site at Lister Square serves up something a little extra, with Swedish waffles (sweet or savoury) and baked eggs for brunch, then excellent sourdough pizzas at night.

Also try... soup for the soul at Union Of Genius, fabulous giant sandwiches at cult favourite Alby’s (also in Leith) or Greek and Mediterranean-style brunch/lunch at Lady & The Bear

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.