From Historic Charm to Culinary Excellence: Edinburgh’s Top 30 Michelin Star Restaurants

From Historic Charm to Culinary Excellence: Edinburgh’s Top 30 Michelin Star Restaurants

Edinburgh is not just old buildings and stories; it’s also a hub for incredible food. Join me as we explore the restaurants that have earned Michelin stars, a big deal in the food world. These stars show that the restaurants are super special and make delicious meals. From the ancient cobblestone streets to the modern city vibe, we’ll discover places that mix history with top-notch cooking. 

As we journey through Edinburgh’s culinary scene, we’ll find out what makes each of these restaurants unique. They’re not just places to eat; they’re experiences where you can taste the best of what the city has to offer. So, get ready to explore with me. We’ll walk through the historic charm of Edinburgh and taste the culinary excellence these Michelin-starred restaurants bring to the table.

1. Number One

Number One is a Rosette Restaurant where modern Scottish cuisine meets world-class service. Their dishes are fashioned using seasonal ingredients carefully sourced from an exceptional list of trusted suppliers, fusing Scottish cuisine with modern flair.

Chef Mathew Sherry and the award-winning team showcase their favourite seasonal produce through a seven-course tasting menu, creating Scottish dishes by combining classic flavours with modern flair.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 557 6727

OPEN: Thur – Mon 6 – 9:30 pm Tue, Wed Closed

RESERVATIONS:  ROCCOFORTEHOTELS.COM

2. Ondine

Ondine is one of the most popular places in Edinburgh for fish and shellfish, the menu is dominated by straightforward, satisfying dishes that let the quality ingredients shine. Sole meunière and fruits de mer platters are just some of the classics you can expect to find on the menu. Desserts are strong too and the warm, genuine service team are always on top of things.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 2 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 226 1888

OPEN: Tue – Sat  12 – 3 pm, 5:30 – 9:30 pm Sun, Mon Closed

3. The Spence

Expect an all-day buzz at The Spence where Head Chef, Jonny Wright celebrates world-class produce from across Scotland. He’s worked with local producers, including old friends and new neighbours, to create seasonally-inspired modern classic cuisine, while their comprehensive wine list honours new and heritage makers. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 39 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 322 3798

OPEN: Mon-Wed 7 am – 9:30 pm Thur, Fri 7 am – 10 pm Sat, Sun 8 am – 10 pm

RESERVATIONS:  gleneagles.com

4. The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage

Take in some of the best views of the city from the full-length windows of this modern, cantilevered building in a wonderful spot on the top of Calton Hill. The room has a minimalist, design-driven feel and the contemporary, pared-back dishes allow each ingredient to shine. The tasting menu is only in the evenings.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 322 1247

OPEN: Sun – Tue Closed Wed 12 – 5 pm Thur – Sat 12 – 11 pm 

RESERVATIONS:  thelookoutedinburgh.co

5. Tipo

Tipo celebrates dining to share, a mixture of small and large plates, featuring in-house made pasta, cured meats as well as their signature soft serve. Utilising the best of local and artisan Scottish produce throughout our menus, small domaine artisanal family-owned wineries and classic cocktails done right. 

They have three areas available, an individual table in the restaurant, stool seating at our bar or our pasta room which seats two groups of 5-8 or groups of 9 or more privately

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 110 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1DR, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 226 4545

OPEN: Mon-Sun 12 – 2:30 pm, 5:30 – 9 pm

6. Noto

Noto is an independent restaurant focused on food for sharing, small-domain wine producers and bespoke cocktails. Inspired by chef-owner Stuart’s time living & working in NYC. Named after his eclectic friend and roommate there, Bob Noto. Well-conceived dishes display influences which span the globe, with a particular focus on Asia. Save room for the luscious Michel Cluizel chocolate and miso dessert.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 47a Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DY, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 241 8518

OPEN: Mon-Sun 12 – 2:30 pm, 5:30 – 9 pm 

7. LYLA

LYLA builds its menu around a combination of line-caught fish and sustainable shellfish sourced from the Scottish Isles as well as working with the best United Kingdom farms to source organic meats and vegetables, they have established many relationships with foragers and growers. 

The kitchen will serve you a multi-course tasting menu with natural representations of their findings. The foundation of their menu is to bring you a taste of Scotland in the capital city.  

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS:63 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1BS, United Kingdom 

CALL:  +44 131 226 5097

OPEN: Mon-Sun 9 am – 5 pm

RESERVATIONS:   lailabrunchedinburgh.co.uk

8. Gardener’s Cottage

This quirky eatery was once home to a royal gardener and much of the produce comes from the kitchen garden. It’s a tiny place, with two cosy, simply furnished rooms that have long communal tables. 

A set, seasonally influenced menu is offered at both lunch and dinner, with the lunch version a little shorter. Well-presented modern dishes feature on both, perhaps featuring salmon cured in their on-site smokehouse.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Royal Terrace Gardens, Edinburgh, EH7 5DX, United Kingdom

OPEN: Mon-Sun 9 am – 5 pm

9. Fhior

Fhior is a modern Scottish kitchen in central Edinburgh that’s weaving a fresh narrative into our country’s culinary landscape. Creative modern cooking showcases local and foraged produce, with their one-acre garden the real driving force behind the menus. They preserve their home-grown ingredients so they can use them all year round.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 36 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SB, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 477 5000

OPEN: Mon-Wed Closed Thur, Fri 6:30 – 8 pm Sat, Sun 12 – 2 pm 

RESERVATIONS: fhior.com

10. The Broughton

The Broughton is everyone’s favourite local joint. Warm, cosy and welcoming, they’re committed to delivering the finest food and drinks in Edinburgh’s gastropub scene.  Flavoursome dishes like duck confit terrine and vanilla panna cotta hit the mark for elevated pub food, with a strong wine list on hand to accompany.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS:  46-48a Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SA, United Kingdom 

CALL:  +44 131 556 6608

OPEN: Mon, Tue Closed Wed, Thur 3:30 – 11 pm Fri, Sat 12 am – 12 pm Sun 12 – 11 pm

RESERVATIONS: thebroughtonbar.com

11. Timberyard

The rustic warehouse aesthetic is the perfect backdrop to an ethos that centres around the local, the seasonal, and letting ingredients speak for themselves. It takes a lot of skill and little ability to take just a few prime ingredients and produce dishes that are so well-defined and satisfying and the Radford family now have a chef who can do just that. You can warm yourself by the stove in winter or sit in the walled courtyard in the summer. The lovely service team are on the ball and the music’s great too.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS:  10 Lady Lawson St, Edinburgh EH3 9DS, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 221 1222

OPEN: Mon-Wed Closed Thur 5 – 11 pm Fri, Sun 12 – 3 pm, 5:30 – 11 pm

RESERVATIONS:  timberyard.co

12. Spry

Spry is a neighbourhood wine bar and bottle shop that specialises in naturally made wines. Their food menu is an ever-changing selection of dishes made with local, seasonal produce. Both a la carte and five-course set menu options are available.

They are open for lunch, dinner and drinks. Booking for tables is advised, although walk-in space is often available at the bar.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Haddington Pl, Edinburgh EH7 4AE, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 557 0005

OPEN: Tue – Sat 1 – 10 pm, Sun 1 – 6 pm Mon Closed

13. Aizle

Aizle is based in the Garden Room at The Kimpton Charlotte Square. Everything at Aizle is made in-house, from the nutritious live ferment in the sourdough to the hand-churned butter, to the aquavit and aged kombucha in our cocktails. 

The constantly evolving menu takes on a tasting format, featuring fresh, colourful dishes made up of the latest seasonal harvest and given the occasional creative or Japanese twist. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 38 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4HQ, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 240 5500

OPEN: Wed-Sun 5 – 8:30 pm Tue, Mon Closed

14. Dean Banks at the Pompadour

Dean Banks’ latest fine dining restaurant has landed in Edinburgh. The menu constantly evolves, reflecting the seasons.  Dean heroes our land and seas, producing a menu which showcases Scotland’s natural resources. This includes the very best local produce from Edinburgh, Fife and beyond. Foraged seasonal produce is preserved to enjoy the fruits of Summer year-round. 

Each guest will enjoy a sensory experience like no other, which will leave a lasting memory. Dean’s passion for food is truly reflected in each course which will take you on a journey through his past travels and experiences. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: Princes Street Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, Edinburgh EH1 2AB, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 1738 718387

OPEN: Fri – Sun 12 – 3 pm 5 pm – 12 am Thur 5 pm – 12 am Mon-Wed Closed

RESERVATIONS: deanbanks.co.uk, thefork.co.uk

15. Argile

From the French word for clay, Argile is an independent chef’s table restaurant in Edinburgh’s Marchmont. This intimate dining experience offers a frequently-changing tasting menu showcasing the best of Scottish produce, cooked with a contemporary French leaning. Reservations are required. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 21 Argyle Pl, Edinburgh EH9 1JJ, United Kingdom

RESERVATIONS: https://argilerestaurant.squarespace.com/reservations/

16. Eleanore

With its friendly service, high stool seating and bright monochrome décor, there is a pleasantly relaxed feel to this neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar. The kitchen team take plenty of care in preparing a set menu of fresh-tasting dishes, with desserts proving a highlight, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to try the wonderfully indulgent tiramisu-choux. Dietary requirements are well catered for, with vegetarian and vegan menus available on request.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 30-31 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 600 0990

OPEN: Fri – Mon 1 – 2 pm 6 – 11 pm

17. Dulse

Dulse is a seafood restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh that serves classic Scottish seafood dishes with a modern twist. This neighbourhood-friendly restaurant is perfect for cosy and relaxed dining. Downstairs they focus on an intimate wine and cocktail bar, serving small sharing plates and upstairs is a seafood restaurant created by Chef Dean Banks. Their team has put together a menu that showcases the best of Scottish seafood.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 17 Queensferry St, Edinburgh EH2 4QW, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 1738 718387

RESERVATIONS: dulse.co.uk

18. Purslane

Based in the stunning area of Stockbridge on St. Stephen Street this fantastic new restaurant is the epitome of rustic, casual fine dining. Run by head chef and owner Paul Gunning, Purslane serves a large variety of freshly prepared dishes, delivering an intense, high-quality flavour with every mouthful. Paul’s career has seen him work everywhere from London to Brittany via Australia so regardless of what you decide to eat on the day, you’re guaranteed to be in good hands.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 33A St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AH, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 226 3500

OPEN: Wed-Sat 12 – 1:30 pm, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Sun – Tue Closed

19. Skua

A tiny basement operation with dark and moody décor, this restaurant in the suburb of Stockbridge very much has the feel of a wine bar. A carefully curated list includes a selection of natural wines, while a few special bottles are listed on the blackboard. The accompanying cooking is impressive from the get-go, featuring refined, elegant dishes that are pleasingly free of superfluous elements.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 49 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AH, United Kingdom

OPEN: Wed-Sat 5 pm – 1 am Sun – Tue Closed

20. Hendersons

Hendersons is a new restaurant by Barrie Henderson, serving up delicious vegetarian and vegan food, freshly made drinks, healthy salads, desserts and outside catering.  Friendly service creates a lovely neighbourhood feel, while unfussy plant-based puddings are on hand to satisfy the most sweet-toothed of diners.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 7-13 Barclay Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4HW, United Kingdom 

CALL:  +44 131 202 1635

OPEN: Mon-Sun 12 – 10 pm 

RESERVATIONS: hendersonsrestaurant.com

21. Kora by Tom Kitchin

Set in the buzzing Bruntsfield neighbourhood of Edinburgh, Kora showcases a range of light, fresh, inventive and inspiring dishes, honouring the best of Scottish seasonal cooking.

Guests can expect a relaxed yet exceptional experience whether seeking a bite at the bar, a leisurely brunch, a family lunch or an elegant dinner with friends.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 14-17 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4HN, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 342 3333

OPEN: Mon – Thur 5:30 – 8:45 pm, Fri 12 – 9 pm, Sat 11 am – 9 pm, Sun 11 am – 8:45 pm

22. Condita

Chef Conor Toomey offers a surprise menu, with a hand-drawn bookmark picturing some of the ingredients the only hint at what is to come. An interesting and individual streak runs through the cooking, with flavour combinations carefully thought through to enhance one another. The skill of the kitchen is most evident in dishes that extract wonderful flavours from seemingly basic ingredients, like kohlrabi with goat’s curd.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 15 Salisbury Pl, Newington, Edinburgh EH9 1SL, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 667 5777 

OPEN: Tue – Sat 6:30 – 10:15 pm 

RESERVATIONS: condita.co.uk

23. LeftField

This is a proper neighbourhood restaurant which focuses on the country’s delicious seafood. Straightforward options from Scottish waters kick things off, with fresh mussels and oysters sitting alongside the likes of a zingy crispy squid with gochujang mayo. Comforting and flavoursome main dishes pair well with the homely surroundings, where you can relax with some super views of Bruntsfield Links and The Meadows.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 12 Barclay Terrace, Edinburgh EH10 4HP, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 229 1394

OPEN: Mon-Wed Closed Thur 5:30 – 9 pm, Fri – Sun 12:30 – 2 pm, 5:30 – 9 pm 

RESERVATIONS:  leftfieldedinburgh.co.uk

24. Eòrna

Eòrna serves a single seasonal tasting menu from Tuesday to Saturday featuring the best fresh ingredients in Scotland. Watch the dishes being prepared in front of you and engage with Brian (Chef) and Glen (Sommelier) about the process in a relaxing, intimate and luxurious environment.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 68 Hamilton Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5AZ, United Kingdom 

CALL:  +44 131 531 4680

OPEN: Tue – Sat 6:45 – 11 pm Sun-Mon Closed

RESERVATIONS: exploretock.com

25. Palmerston

At The Palmerston, they are passionate about the origin of the ingredients they use in their dishes, working closely with the farmers, growers and fishermen. By only sourcing the best and freshest produce, their menu changes daily, European style, offering seasonal variation and something new to try when you dine with us.  Local beers, a carefully curated wine list and friendly service complete the picture.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Palmerston Pl, Edinburgh EH12 5AF, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 220 1794

OPEN: Tue – Sun 9 am – 2:30 pm, 6 – 9:45 pm 

26. The Scran & Scallie

Nestled within the popular Edinburgh neighbourhood of Stockbridge, The Scran & Scallie presents exceptional pub classics, with a fresh, modern twist. Seasonal menus showcase great Scottish food with ingredients sourced from the very best local Scottish suppliers.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Comely Bank Rd, Edinburgh EH4 1DR, United Kingdom

CALL:   +44 131 332 6281

OPEN: Mon-Sun 12 – 11:30 pm 

RESERVATIONS:  scranandscallie.com

27. The Little Chartroom

The buzz at this popular restaurant is addictive. Grab a drink in the chilled-out bar before finding a spot in the modern, pared-back dining room; the seats at the counter are the ones to go for. Original dishes have deep, bold, yet delicately balanced flavours, and are inspired by the local larder.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 14 Bonnington Rd, Edinburgh EH6 5JD, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 556 6600

OPEN: Mon – Thur 6 – 8 pm Fri – Sun 1 – 2 pm, 6 – 8:30 pm 

28. Aurora

Aurora offers a fine dining experience that doesn’t rely on tradition. Guests are welcomed by a personal and intimate atmosphere, and invited to explore a seasonal tasting menu of Modern European cuisine in our refined establishment

Inspired by the chef’s travels, our dishes include flavours that originate in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. Our vibrant courses are the result of an experimental kitchen style that routinely brings together unusual ingredients and pairings. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 187 Great Jct St, Edinburgh EH6 5LQ, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 7946 650185  

RESERVATIONS:  auroraedinburgh.co.uk

29. Borough

An experienced couple runs this pleasantly stark, modern restaurant, which sits on a cobbled street in a residential area near the port. Menus take on a tasting format, with a choice of 3 or 5 dishes plus an optional cheese course. 

Seasonal Scottish produce is to the fore, with just a handful of ingredients on each plate; flavours are distinct, while textures work in harmony. Sweet, endearing service further enhances the experience.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS:  50-54 Henderson St, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6DE, United Kingdom

CALL: +44 131 554 7655

OPEN: Sun – Tue Closed Wed-Sat 12 – 9 pm 

RESERVATIONS: DISHCULT.COM

30. Heron

Heron is a Michelin-starred relaxed modern restaurant with views overlooking the picturesque Water of Leith. They offer an a la carte and tasting menu that changes continuously, showcasing some of Scotland’s highest quality seasonal produce with our own unique and contemporary approach.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 87, 91A Henderson St, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6ED, United Kingdom

CALL:  +44 131 554 1242

OPEN: Mon – Tue Closed Wed – Fri 5:30 – 9:30 pm Sat, Sun 12 – 2 pm, 5:30 – 9:30 pm

Whether you’re a food lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking for a good meal, this adventure through Edinburgh’s top restaurants promises a delicious and delightful experience.