Date Night In Edinburgh

You've swiped right, the well-chosen gif has worked a treat and the conversation has been flowing. The time has now come to make the first move and step out onto Edinburgh's cobbled streets. Whether you're looking for a chilled-out spot to grab a drink, a thrilling couple's activity to minimise the small talk, or simply want to impress with a candle-lit dinner, we've created a guide to the very best date night ideas in Edinburgh. You can thank us later...

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 24th March 2025



Slug and lettuce, Edinburgh, George Street

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🍸 Entry & a cocktail for £6 🍸

With venues on George Street and in the Omni Centre, Slug and Lettuce is a top choice for affordable date nights. You can nab two for one cocktails every single day of the week, surrounded by Instagrammable pink interiors.

If you're feeling peckish, there's a cracking food menu on the cards too - think buttermilk fried chicken burgers, loaded nachos and peri peri chicken skewers.

The Lioness of Leith

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If you're looking for a casual date night spot that always delivers when it comes to food and drink, head to The Lioness of Leith. This relaxed boozer has transformed a derelict pub that has a dark history to it, now flaunting rustic wooden furnishings, dark brick walls and arcade-style games machines.

There are a cracking selection of drinks available, including both local and international beers. Much of their food menu is locally sourced too, with Burger Mama in the kitchen whipping up gourmet eats. There are Scottish beef, chicken or meat-free patties to choose from, with toppings including spicy mac 'n' cheese and caramelised onion.

ASK Italian Edinburgh

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Embark on a no-fuss date night with popular restaurant chain ASK Italian, which boasts a convenient location just off Princes Street to complement your other activities for the day. They've got 30 years of experience serving twists on recognisable dishes and favourite flavours, culminating in a menu featuring the likes of burrata and pancetta carbonara, mushroom and truffle calzones with a creamy white base, and rich tiramisu.

Pizza Pilgrims Edinburgh

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The Full Pilgrimage £32 per person and 2 other offers

Pizza Pilgrims on Rose Street is the perfect place for a relaxed and fun date night. The cosy dining area downstairs creates an inviting atmosphere, while the upstairs space adds a quirky touch with a piano stage and occasional live music.

Sharing a bubbling hot mushroom and truffle pizza over a bottle of wine is a simple but unforgettable way to spend an evening. Whether you are in the early days of romance or celebrating years together, the combination of authentic Neapolitan pizza, affordable drinks, and a vibrant setting makes for a memorable date.

The Devil’s Advocate Bar & Kitchen

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Hidden away in the winding alleyways of Old Town, The Devil's Advocate is stocked with every drink you could possibly want. From peaty single malts and ice-cold craft beer, to delicate cocktails and fine wines from across the globe, it's guaranteed to leave your partner grinning from ear to ear. But that's not all, as this slick space is also home to a brilliant kitchen slinging out sharing platters and indulgent Scottish fare.

Rio Steakhouse Edinburgh

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The perfect date night destination for food lovers, Rio Steakhouse promises traditional Rodizio-style steak served continuously to your table. The expert Gaucho chefs will carve premium cuts right in front of you, continuing to bring you delicious eats until you're both full.

There's also a gourmet salad bar full of starters and sides, featuring authentic Brazilian dishes, imported cheeses and cured meats. As for the interiors, the George Street venue is decked out in high ceilings, ornate decorations and comfortable velvet armchairs to dine in.

Bar Tonic

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Keep your date night fun yet sophisticated with Bar Tonic, the hidden cocktail spot where the menu is music-themed and the interiors are slick. Settle into a cosy booth and knock back quirky concoctions like the Insane In The Champagne, the Pear-less Whisper and the Flying Without Wings.

Bellfield Brewery & Taproom

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Want to plan a casual date night but still get the vibe right? Then take your beau to Bellfield Brewery & Taproom for a pint or two from one of their many taps. Snuggle up in a heated booth outside or pick a spot indoors where you can gaze into each other's eyes, surrounded by plants and twinkly lights. On the menu? Food vendors take up residency on rotation, such as Don Guero Taqueria and Bahn Mi Brothers, so you won't be strapped for choice. 

Old Pal

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Treat your other half to some of the best cocktails around with a trip o Old Pal, a stylish cocktail bar located in Haymarket. The welcoming space is decked out in simple wooden furnishings and exposed brick walls lit by warm lighting, with plety of comfy booths to cosy up with your partner in.

Sip fun, refreshing cocktails like the mai tai snap or a Banoffee Pie Fizz, with tipples starting from just £8 each. Plus, they also serve tasty plates such as potato rosti, crispy halloumi fries or steak tartare.

Hawksmoor Edinburgh

A classic date night spot perched atop St Andrew Square, Hawksmoor is not just your plain ol' steakhouse; it's the real deal. With six locations in London and one in Manchester, they know their steaks like the back of their hand. From cast-iron fillet steak to Winslade Wellington, their meaty delights will make your heart skip a beat.

Porty Vault

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If you're after plans with your beau, then venture to Porty Vault on Portobello High Street. This laid-back venue is flaunting a range of sultry corners for those cosy moments, alongside a mouthwatering selection of BBQ-style eats. Think pulled pork or mac 'n' cheese. Yum.

St Vincent Bar

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Looking for a relaxed yet stylish spot in Edinburgh for date night? St Vincent Bar in New Town is your go-to destination. Known for its fantastic range of craft beers, gin, and cocktails, this local favourite is a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary flair.

Whether you're enjoying a chilled afternoon or gearing up for a night out, St Vincent Bar offers the ideal setting for your romantic evening.

The Register Club

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For a romantic night out in Edinburgh, The Register Club is the perfect destination. With its intimate, elegant atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for couples looking to enjoy a night away from the hustle and bustle.

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails, enjoy delicious bites from the kitchen, and take in the stunning views from the fourth floor. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just want to spend quality time together, The Register Club offers a chic and relaxed environment that sets the perfect tone for a memorable date night.

Panda & Sons

If you're looking to impress on a date night in Edinburgh, Panda & Sons is just the place for you. Styled as an old-fashioned barber shop, guests first have to charm their way past the clipboard (or just make an online booking) before being allowed inside the speakeasy cocktail bar. 

Tuk Tuk

Nothing puts a smile on your date's face better than a fun evening of great food. Enter Tuk Tuk. Named after the iconic taxi cabs in Mumbai, this bright venue serves small plates of Indian street food, all cooked using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. 

The Voodoo Rooms

The Voodoo Rooms is a true tipple connoisseur's paradise. With a dazzling selection of cocktails, spirits and a largely Scottish range of beer, from Bloody Prejudice to Kraken Float rum, this stunning joint is decorated with elaborate ceilings, arched windows, and plush leather booths—the ultimate date night spot.