Curator’s statement
Edinburgh is a small, bustling city full of life from eager students and hungry professionals. It can be hard to decide where to eat in Edinburgh when you’re sick of haggis and traditional Scottish fare. Rarely identified as a food city, Edinburgh has a burgeoning restaurant scene of innovative modern cuisine and international influences, from India and Southeast Asia to the Mediterranean. Brighten up the gray days with some fresh and exciting meals, plus casual activities to escape the crowds.
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Where to stay in Edinburgh
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Things to do in Edinburgh
The Water of Leith Walkway is an idyllic path along the river. Totaling 12 miles from Balerno to Leith, where the river meets the harbor, you can walk or bike all or part of the scenic path, especially around Dean Village, Stockbridge, and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Shopping in Stockbridge offers vintage stores, luxury boutiques, and unique crafts. Pop into shops, pass through Circus Lane, and try not to overfill your suitcase for the way home.
The Royal Botanic Garden is free to enter and exceptionally well-maintained. Wander through the many varieties of gardens and enjoy the central cafe and art gallery at your leisure.
Take a picnic up Calton Hill. A short, steep hike up the hill brings you to a smattering of incongruous monuments, overlooking the marvelous cityscape of historic and modern rooftops. From the north side, enjoy a view of the sea and harbor.
Places to eat & drink in Edinburgh
Lannan Bakery is absolutely worth the long weekend line that builds up before 9 am opening. With an array of innovative Viennoiserie, including several unique savory pastries, a box of Lannan goodies is the perfect way to start the day. Most flavors rotate frequently, but the famous custard slice is not to be missed.
Singapore Coffee House is a tiny corner joint serving Singaporean coffee and food. With just four tables, it can get busy, so prepare for a short wait or grab a sweetened coffee to go. The rich curry laksa broth is mesmerizing, and a house favorite for good reason.
Baba is a cozy spot for Eastern Mediterranean plates, with an emphasis on charcoal grilling. With several unique dining rooms, filled with bookshelves, plush textures, and rich colors, it feels like dining in someone’s stylish living room.
Dishoom Edinburgh is a staple for great Indian food, with a wide menu sure to please everyone. No reservations are taken, but the dark bar downstairs offers a long menu of signature cocktails to pass the waiting time.
Hey Palu is a cocktail bar just outside Old Town serving Italian-inspired aperitivo with unique drinks and a few small bites.
Nauticus, in Leith, is a chic pub with nautical decor and craft cocktails. The cozy seats among wood panels and vintage chandeliers are the perfect spot to enjoy a well-made martini or signature cocktail.
Teuchers Landing is the place to be when the sun shines in Leith. Outdoor seating sprawls onto floating docks, where you can enjoy a beer and a burger among locals dreaming they’re somewhere warmer.
Need to know
Bring a raincoat or umbrella—and prepare for any weather throughout the day.
Travel Advisor
Margaret Ross
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Edinburgh page.