Best Restaurants In Edinburgh City Centre

While perhaps better known for its reams of traditional pubs, the Scottish capital also doesn't skimp in the food department. From getting your spice fix at an Indian eatery to settling down in a venue with gorgeous views over the castle, our city really has it all. Stuck for ideas? Read on to discover the best restaurants in Edinburgh city centre.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 24th March 2025



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Hawksmoor Edinburgh

For sumptuous steaks, take a trip to Hawksmoor in St Andrew Square. From tender cuts of Chateaubriand to t-bone and prime rib, alongside a range of Sunday roasts too, this restaurant's menu transports meat lovers to their very own idea of heaven.

PIGGS Royal Mile

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Looking for a hidden gem right in the heart of the city? Located along the Royal Mile, PIGGS is an independent wine and tapas bar, run by two brothers with a love of Spanish culture. Expect an intimate, welcoming atmosphere with dark interiors, ideal for date night.

Tuck into tasty tapas plates, ranging from classics like patatas bravas to deep-fried chorizo loaded fries or creamy grilled goat's cheese. To pair with it? one of the best selections of wines around, available by the glass or the bottle.

Pizza Pilgrims Edinburgh

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The Full Pilgrimage £32 per person and 2 other offers

Right in the middle of Edinburgh's bustling city centre, Pizza Pilgrims is a haven for pizza lovers. Their slow-risen dough, high-quality ingredients, and passion for Neapolitan tradition result in pizzas that are both light and full of flavour.

Whether you are in the mood for a simple margherita or a decadent mushroom and truffle, you will find a menu that celebrates bold Italian flavours. The two-floor setup also means there is always something going on, from lively dinners to interactive pizza-making experiences.

Rio Steakhouse Edinburgh

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Located in the iconic Assembly Rooms at 54 George Street, Rio Steakhouse is a sophisticated Brazilian restaurant that's ideal for date night or group meals, but make sure you come hungry. You can enjoy unlimited Churrasco meat here, carved right in front of you by their expert Gaucho chefs.

You'll begin your meal at the gourmet salad bar, where they serve an array of delicious imported cheese, cured meats and vegetable dishes. As for the venue itself, expect ornate high ceilings, pretty foliage, plush velvet armchairs and a striking bar.

Tantra

One of the best Indian restaurants in Edinburgh city centre is Tantra, which transports you to South Asia with its food, entertainment and interiors. To top it off, it even has 24-carat dishes, including the slow-cooked lamb shank encrusted in golf leaf.

Timberyard

When it comes to Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh city centre, one of our absolute faves is Timberyard. Slinging out locally sourced dishes in an uber-chic converted warehouse, this highly acclaimed hotspot is not to be missed and is completely perfect for date nights.

Number One

Number One is the place to go if you fancy a bit of fine dining in Edinburgh city centre. As it's boasted a spot in the Michelin Guide for many years now, you can bet this snazzy spot knows what's up in the good grub department. Think contemporary Scottish cuisine in slinky surrounds.