1. Haggis – One of the best places to try haggis in Edinburgh is at The Royal McGregor, a cozy pub located in the heart of the city. Their haggis is served with neeps and tatties and is a must-try for any first-time visitors to Scotland.
2. Fish and Chips – For some of the best fish and chips in Edinburgh, head to The Tailend, a family-run restaurant that prides itself on using fresh, sustainable seafood. Their battered fish is crispy and delicious, while the chips are thick and fluffy.
3. Cullen Skink – The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant, located on the ground floor of the Scottish National Gallery, is a great spot to try Cullen Skink. Their version of the soup is creamy and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread.
4. Shortbread – For some of the best shortbread in Edinburgh, head to Pinnies and Poppy Seeds, a bakery that specializes in traditional Scottish treats. Their shortbread is buttery and crumbly, and pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
5. Scottish Salmon – Ondine, a seafood restaurant located in the heart of the city, is known for its delicious Scottish salmon dishes. Their chefs prepare the fish in a variety of ways, from grilled to smoked to poached, and always use the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients.
6. Black Pudding – The Roseleaf Bar Cafe, located in the bohemian area of Leith, is a great place to try black pudding. Their version of the dish is made with Stornoway black pudding and served with crispy bacon and a poached egg – it’s the perfect breakfast dish.
7. Sticky Toffee Pudding – The Tower Restaurant, located atop the National Museum of Scotland, serves up a delicious sticky toffee pudding that’s perfect for dessert. The sponge cake is moist and flavorful, while the toffee sauce is rich and indulgent.
8. Cranachan – For some of the best cranachan in Edinburgh, head to The Sheep Heid Inn, a historic pub that dates back to 1360. Their version of the dessert is made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and oats, and is the perfect sweet treat after a hearty meal.
9. Irn-Bru – You can find Irn-Bru at almost any convenience store in Edinburgh, but for the full experience, head to The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant. They serve the soda alongside other traditional Scottish treats, like shortbread and tablet.
10. Whisky – For a true whisky experience, head to The Scotch Whisky Experience, located near Edinburgh Castle. They offer a variety of tours and tastings, where you can sample some of the best single malts and blends in Scotland. Alternatively, The Bow Bar, a cozy pub located in the heart of the city, has an extensive whisky menu and knowledgeable bartenders who can help you find the perfect dram.

There you have it – Our top 10 recommendations for the best things to eat in Edinburgh, along with some restaurant recommendations for each dish. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try some traditional Scottish cuisine, Edinburgh has something for everyone. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in some truly delicious food and drink!