First Timer’s Guide to Eating Around Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland is a destination that truly stands out for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, but what are the best foods and drinks to try while you're there? If this is your first visit to Scotland, you might be surprised to find out how stellar the food and drinks are in Edinburgh! With each bite and sip, you'll find that Scotland's rich, hearty, sweet, or smoky flavors will stay with you long after your visit ends. After spending one glorious month living like a local in Edinburgh, we've collected the ultimate guide to what we consider to be the best foods and drinks to try in Edinburgh on your first trip here. Here's how to savor every bite and sip of what the city has to offer!

Scottish Breakfasts in Edinburgh

What better way to start your Edinburgh food adventure than with a hearty breakfast that will keep you fueled all day? The full Scottish breakfast is an institution. Sink your teeth into a hefty meal of tattie scones (potato bread), sausage, haggis, and black pudding. While it may seem like a lot to handle first thing in the morning, each component offers a unique taste and texture that perfectly complements the others. 

Don't be quick to pass on the haggis; we promise it's full of incredible flavors and spices. Surprisingly, it was our favorite part of the Full Scottish Breakfast! Alternatively, vegetable Haggis is an available twist on the traditional dish for vegetarians, incorporating lentils, oats, and a mix of spices. Our favorite full scottish breakfast in Edinburgh was at the Thistle Stop Cafe. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s the perfect easy location just steps away from the Edinburgh Castle.

If a full Scottish breakfast sounds too much for your morning appetite, Edinburgh has you covered with a lighter option. Enter the humble sausage roll, a UK favorite for those on the go. Greggs, the iconic fast food chain, offers this flaky, savory pastry filled with spiced (but not spicy) sausage meat, providing a quick, delicious bite for those eager to start their day. But Greggs isn't the only place to wrap your hands around this comfort food classic! Edinburgh's many local bakeries and cafes also pride themselves on their unique takes on the sausage roll – from gourmet versions with exotic meats and spices to vegetarian alternatives that promise not to skimp on flavor. For a classic yet amazing sausage roll, visit The Piemaker or swing by Edinburgh Larder, a trendy spot known for its artisan approach to classic bites. 

Want something even simpler? In Edinburgh, the love for sourdough has risen (pun intended!) to almost cult-like status, with locals swearing by the tangy, crusty loaves as a daily staple. This obsession is matched by the city's plethora of outstanding bakeries, each with its own secret recipe and unique spin on the classic bread. When in town, swing by Twelve Triangles for their fantastic variety of sourdough loaves, or pop into Söderberg, which offers Swedish-inspired pastries with the best Scottish ingredients. Looking for other excellent baked goods? Visit the Bearded Baker, a small-batch independent bakery that offers sourdough, cinnamon rolls, and other incredible bakes. 

Coffee & Tea in Edinburgh

The way Scots take their tea is an art form steeped in tradition yet always open to personal interpretation. The classic Scottish Breakfast Tea is among the favorites, renowned for its bold, malty flavors that wake the senses and warm the soul. For a classic spot of tea, visit The Elephant House. With its cozy ambiance, it offers a slice of literary history, being the birthplace of many famous novels. Eteaket, on the other hand, modernizes the tea experience with its innovative blends and a bright, welcoming interior. Both tea houses promise a charming escape where visitors can savor the favorite Scottish pastime of tea drinking.

While The Scots' affection for a steaming cuppa is renowned, our travels throughout the country unearthed an unsung hero - Scotland's coffee. Tucked within the city's narrow lanes and sprawling avenues are artisanal coffee shops and cozy cafes, each brewing unique blends reflecting the city's eclectic spirit.

A visit to Cowan & Sons in the trendy Stonebridge neighborhood is a must! This spot won us over on multiple visits with its reasonably priced breakfast, cozy yet modern vibes, and impeccable coffee craftsmanship. And while you're in the area, visit the Artisan Roast, a cute nook known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional brews. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Another gem is Brew Lab, located near the University of Edinburgh. It's a favorite among students and professionals alike for its innovative menu that pushes the boundaries of your average coffee experience. 

Savory Seafood in Edinburgh

While Edinburgh has its fair share of fine dining, one should also savor the traditional tastes of Scotland's beloved Cullen Skink. Despite its somewhat quirky name, this dish is a celebration of all things Scottish seafood. This creamy fish soup, traditionally made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk, is a comforting and filling choice for a midday meal. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a standout dish, perfect for warming the soul on a chilly Edinburgh day. 

Another UK staple is Fish and Chips — an absolute classic featuring freshly caught fish in a crispy batter alongside golden, fluffy fries — a simple yet irresistible combination. Bertie's Proper Fish & Chips and Lothian Fish & Chips both offer the most delicious, low-key fish and chips options in the city! 

If you're looking for something a bit lighter but still quintessentially Scottish, Scottish Salmon is a must-try. Renowned globally for its quality and flavor, this dish can be found in many upscale restaurants.

Sunday Roast: The Weekend Scottish Favorite

If you find yourself in Edinburgh on a Sunday, you're in for a comforting treat! The Sunday Roast is a UK institution, and Scotland does it with particular flair. Picture succulent slices of beef or lamb paired with golden roast potatoes, a Yorkshire pudding that's airy yet crisp, heaps of seasonal vegetables, and plenty of rich, savory gravy. It's a weekly must-do for every local and any visitor!

Sip Scottish Specialties at the Scotch Whisky Experience

Even if you're not a whisky enthusiast, a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience is a must. This immersive tour takes you through the process of whisky making. It offers the opportunity to taste a selection of Scotland's finest drams. You'll be amazed at the variety and complexity of flavors found in each whisky, influenced by factors such as region, ingredients, and aging process.

Enjoy a Pint at a Traditional Scottish Pub

No culinary tour of Edinburgh would be complete without an evening spent in one of the city's iconic pubs. Whether you're a lover of ales or prefer the peaty notes of a single malt, Edinburgh's pub scene has something for everyone. Join the locals for a pint, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and sample some traditional pub fare like bangers and mash or a Scotch Pie, a savory pastry filled with minced mutton or other meats, perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal. 

Pubs like The Last Drop and Nauticus Bar are standout options in Edinburgh. These legendary spots are not just about great food but also about the experience — offering a cozy, welcoming atmosphere combined with a selection of the best local brews and whiskies, making your dinner not just a meal but a memorable Scottish experience.

Try a Fried Mars Bar & an Irn-Bru

You may have heard the urban legends, but contrary to popular belief, the deep-fried Mars Bar is not a myth – it's a real Scottish delicacy that you have to try to believe. This calorific concoction involves a Mars Bar battered and deep-fried until golden and gooey. For the most quintessential Scottish sip, it's hard to miss the bright orange glow of Scotland's other national drink, Irn-Bru. Often compared to a cream soda with a citrus twist, Irn-Bru is a sweet and fizzy refreshment that's a local favorite. While its unique taste may divide opinion, it's an essential part of the Scottish food and drink experience that should not be overlooked.