Our 2 best places to eat in Edinburgh
There are so many reasons to visit Scotland’s beautiful city of Edinburgh, from the rich history of the Edinburgh Vaults and Edinburgh Castle to the natural beauty of the nearby Scottish Highlands – where it’s rumoured that even the Loch Ness Monster is tempted by a day of exploring…
Of course, while you’re enjoying a little city break – or simply just living your life in this glorious location – don’t you deserve more excuses to treat yourself?
That’s where Eat Drink Meet comes in, helping you discover Edinburgh’s best spots for leisurely lunches, luxurious brunches, afternoon teas, dinners with a view, and those spontaneous after-work drinks you’ve been craving. Here is our list of the top 2 places to eat in Edinburgh.
Best pubs, gastropubs, and restaurants in or near East Edinburgh
Best pubs, gastropubs, and restaurants in or near Duddingston
The Sheep Heid Inn, The Causeway
Much like the city of Edinburgh, The Sheep Heid Inn is a dog-friendly country pub that’s absolutely packed with history. As Scotland’s longest-standing pub, that’s not surprising, but what you may not expect is that they have a fully functioning bowling alley – lovingly referred to as “Skittle Alley” – in their pub! It still uses skittles, A.K.A “bowling pins,” from the 1800s, and you can even have this unique indoor space to yourself with private hire if you’re planning an event that you never want people to forget. You have an afternoon spare for bowling, right?
As for their name, it may come from the fancy ram’s head they were given by King James VI of Scotland in 1580. Alternatively, its origins could also be from the nearby Holyrood Park, where it’s said that the heads of the sheep butchered here were used by the residents of Duddingston to create surprisingly delicious dishes.
Thankfully, these days you won’t find sheep’s head on the menu, but you will find a sensational selection of seasonal pub dishes and a wide range of real ales, lagers, and wines. When it comes to dining out in Scotland near the natural beauty of Duddingston Loch, there’s no place like it.
Nearby attractions: Duddingston Loch | Dr Neil’s Garden | Holyrood Park | Innocent Railway Tunnel | Edinburgh Castle
Best pubs, gastropubs, and restaurants in South Edinburgh
Best pubs, gastropubs, and restaurants in or near Newington, Mayfield, and The Grange
The Salisbury Arms, Dalkeith Road
The Salisbury Arms has to be one of the cosiest gastropubs in Edinburgh, giving you a dog-friendly pub that’s perfect for the whole family – four-legged members, included! – to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being only a short stroll from the must-see attractions you came for.
Set in a breath-taking, restored Georgian inn, prepare for a feast of warm tones, comfy armchairs, exposed fireplaces, and plenty of traditional touches alongside a fusion of contemporary chic, with eye-catching floral wallpaper, industrial hanging lights, and skylights that look out onto the blue skies of Edinburgh.
While you’re admiring all the above, don’t forget to sip on something from their extensive range of real ales, crisp lagers, and fine wines, all chosen to pair with their irresistible gastropub menus. Speaking of which, you’ll discover everything from starters and nibbles to mouth-watering mains and decadent desserts, each crafted with only the finest seasonal ingredients and flavours. Why would you go anywhere else?
Nearby attractions: Edinburgh Castle | St Giles’ Cathedral | National Museum of Scotland | Hidden Door Festival | The Queen’s Hall
Ready to dine out in or near Edinburgh?
Like we told you at the start, whether you’re living in Edinburgh or visiting this city for its unbeatable views and attractions, there’s a memorable spot waiting for you to wine and dine yourself…
From loch-side dining and dog-friendly pubs to dining out near Edinburgh Castle, tap the button below to find the exact experience you’re dreaming of. Remember to check back in the future, because we intend to keep growing this list with the best places to Eat Drink and Meet in Edinburgh.