Edinburgh is renowned for its castle and historic streets. It is also a top foodie destination, with many culinary attractions in easy reach of most hotels in Edinburgh. Here’s a lowdown on how to get a taste of Edinburgh’s food and drink highlights.
Chase the Game
Much of Scottish cuisine features wild game. For venison and more, check out Wildest Dram, which specializes in game cooking.
Learn to Cook
There are some great places to learn Scottish cooking techniques close to many of Edinburgh’s top hotels. Check out classes in seafood and Scottish specialties.
Dine in a Police Box
Some of the distinctive police telephone boxes in Edinburgh have been transformed into snack bars. You’ll find some eclectic local and world cuisine around the city and parks, served from these iconic structures.
Taste Haggis
Who could go to Scotland without tasting haggis? Be there on Burns Night in January to experience the historic traditions associated with this Scottish food. Don’t worry if you miss Burns Night because haggis is served year-round at Dubh Prais on Edinburgh’s High Street.
PLEASE PIN THIS IMAGE. THANK YOU!Take Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is quite an establishment in Edinburgh. You can enjoy sandwiches, cakes and even champagne at this traditional extra meal. One of the best places for an upmarket tea is the G&V Hotel on the Royal Mile.
Become a Whisky Expert
Scotland and whiskey are synonymous. The Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile offers tours showing how this renowned drink is made. There are also courses on becoming a whiskey connoisseur — with the obligatory tasting, of course.
Sample Local Specialties
Edinburgh has some excellent farmer’s markets. You’ll find a monthly Sunday market in Stockbridge, just a short walk from the city center, featuring local cheeses and other specialties. Each Saturday, Edinburgh’s Castle Terrace hosts another farmers market, resplendent with fine food.
Step Out on a Foodie Walking Tour
What better way to burn a few calories than to go on an Edinburgh Foodie Walking Tour? Tours include tastings at local delis, along with histories of local food production.
Shuck Oysters
Top-quality seafood is plentiful in Edinburgh, especially the local oysters. One of the best places to dine on fine seafood is Ondine’s on the George IV Bridge. Reservations are highly recommended.
Drink in a Haunted Pub
Some of Edinburgh’s many historic and famous pubs even come with their own ghosts. The Banshee Labyrinth is renowned for spooky events — like glasses suddenly falling off tables. For other eerie drinking places, try the White Hart or the Scotsman Hotel.
Edinburgh is a wonderful place to broaden your culinary horizons. Come for the food, and stay to enjoy the historic attractions.
