A popular part of Spanish cuisine, tapas can be enjoyed either as an appetiser or combined to create a full meal - with so many different options to choose from. Served cold or hot, these delicious dishes range from classics like patatas bravas and croquetas to more modern plates such as nachos loaded with all kinds of toppings.
Many Edinburgh locations have taken to adding a Scottish twist to their cooking, whether that's in the ingredients used or the cooking techniques. This has resulted in a unique combination of Spanish, South American and British fare that's constantly evolving. And from homely Mexican haunts to sleek cocktail bars, there are plenty of places in the city to enjoy it. So if you're hunting for the very best tapas restaurant in Edinburgh, you're sure to find it in our helpful guide.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 18th December 2024
A popular pub in the Old Town, Tron is best known for its sports screenings, live music and DJ sets at the weekend. Whether you're relaxing in the main bar or hitting up the pool table downstairs, you can do it while enjoying three tapas plates for £13.75, or five for £20.95.
They've got classic options like crispy king prawns and spicy chicken quesadillas, as well as more modern choices such as Guinness dirty fries. Whatever your pick, there are plenty of great beers to wash it down.
One of the best tapas restaurants Edinburgh's Old Town has to offer, Boteco Do Brasil is a lively bar that promises a vibrant mix of reggaetón, salsa, bachata, Latin Dance and African music while you dine. They host fantastic parties in this colourful space, complete with mesmerising salsa dancers and live music.
Indulge in authentic Brazilian tapas plates such as fried plantain, roasted peppers stuffed with mozzarella or pan-fried chilli and garlic prawns, paired with one of their many exotic cocktails - which cost just £5 from Sunday to Wednesday.
A bustling South American restaurant in the Stockbridge area, Sabor Criollo specialises in Mexican and Venezuelan cuisine. They embrace an authentic Latin vibe in everything they do, from the bright red furnishings to the flags hanging from the bar - and in their food, of course.
Though they serve plenty of larger plates too, they offer a selection of smaller tapas dishes - we're talking homemade cod croquetas, mini capacha and mushrooms fried in a smoke chilli and garlic sauce.
After the very best tapas restaurants in Edinburgh city centre? Las Iguanas has to be up there, thanks to an extensive menu of South American small plates. This laid-back spot boasts colourful interiors and a cocktail list full of favourites like the pink pina colada or a coconut mojito.
As for the food, you're spoiled for choice here. Tapas dishes include loaded nachos, calamari with garlic aioli and mac 'n' cheese empanadas, though there are a huge number of larger meals on offer as well.
A neighbourhood bar and shop, Spry is a relaxed yet sophisticated space that specialises in naturally made wines. You'll find them on Haddington Place, on the edge of the New Town, fronting simple white interiors with wooden furniture.
You can enjoy tasty tapas plates for lunch or dinner, with a menu that changes regularly. Sample dishes include braised lamb shoulder with smoked aubergine, purple sprouting broccoli with flaked almonds and fresh cheeses in olive oil.
