Restaurants in Edinburgh - Dining Guides
With over 800 bars and restaurants in Edinburgh, picking a decent place to eat can be somewhat of a challenge. Thankfully we narrowed down the list; here are our Top Five picks for best Edinburgh restaurants.
The Best Scottish Fare
The Scottish fare of today has changed somewhat from the infamous haggis and boiled neeps and tatties of the past (though these foodstuffs are still consumed with gusto). Now 'modern Scottish' and 'Scottish fusion' cuisine is all the rage; these dishes are typically created from Scottish produce and prepared with a French, Asian or Mediterranean air. Try the innovative Merchants Restaurant at 17 Merchant Street for 'classic Scottish fare presented with flair and imagination.' Tel: 0131 225 4009. Set dinner menu prices from £21.50.
The Best Vegetarian Cuisine
If you're looking for adventurous vegetarian food, Black Bo's is the place to go. Popular and crowded, the innovative menu is worth the wait for a table. With dishes such as ' Aubergine stuffed with Peppers, Cucumber, Rosemary and Smoked Tofu and Cashew Crust,' how can you go wrong? Black Bo's is located at 57/61 Blackfriars Street next to the bustling pub of the same name. Tel: 0131 557 6136. Entrees course typically cost around £10.
The Best of the Best
Located in the Balmoral Hotel, 'number one' tops the list of best Edinburgh restaurants. With Executive Chef Jeff Bland in the kitchen, the gourmet fare is always classy and delicious; more than worthy of its Michelin star. Come here for cuisine such as 'roast breast of Anjou pigeon, 'sea bass en Papillote' and 'lemongrass crème brulee.' Reservations are recommended. Number one is located at 1 Princes Street. Tel: 0131 557 8740. Prices: starters £15, mains £25, dessert £9
The best Afternoon Tea
Step into 251/253 Canongate for tea at Plaisir du Chocolat, a celebrated tea salon and 'desserterie.' Offering towers of cakes, chocolates and pastries, Plaisir de Chocolat is designed for the serious sweet tooth. Most of the menu is dedicated to tea from around the world, with over 130 types to choose from. Tel: 0131 556 9524. A two course meal costs approximately £16.50.
The best Traditional Watering Hole
The Barony is a pretty authentic Scottish pub located at 81/85 Broughton Street. The open fire and dark wood décor attracts a relaxed crowd, a comfortable mix of twenty somethings and older regulars. Enjoy a pint of traditional ale pulled from a brass pump or turn your attention to the range of, what else? Scotch whisky. Tel: 0131 557 0546.
The best for Quirky Pub Grub
If dining in the midst of Dr Frankenstein's laboratory sounds appetizing, then head to the Frankenstein Pub. This somewhat corny pub is complete with giant sparking electrodes and a wide menu featuring salads, Tex Mex and specialty pub fare. Take advantage of the Frankenstein-influenced shooters and drinks; try 'The Generator,' sip 'It's Alive' and finish with 'The Spark of Life.' The Frankenstein Pub is located at 26 George IV Bridge. Tel: 0131 622 1818. Prices: starters £3.50, mains £7, dessert £4.
Edinburgh - Weekend Breaks
