Global Major Cities Guide

Global dining experiences in Edinburgh, including Italian, Indian, Chinese, and more.

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Guide to International Cuisine in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a thriving food scene. Its culinary landscape reflects its multicultural population, offering a wide variety of international cuisines. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual eateries, or street food, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the city's international dining options.

1. Types of International Cuisines Available

Edinburgh boasts a diverse range of international cuisines, including but not limited to:

Italian: Authentic pasta, pizza, and regional specialties.
Indian: From traditional curries to modern fusion dishes.
Chinese: Dim sum, Sichuan, Cantonese, and more.
Japanese: Sushi, ramen, and izakaya-style dining.
Thai: Fragrant curries, stir-fries, and street food-inspired dishes.
Mexican: Tacos, burritos, and contemporary Mexican cuisine.
Middle Eastern: Lebanese, Turkish, and Persian dishes.
French: Classic bistro fare and haute cuisine.
Spanish: Tapas, paella, and Iberian specialties.
American: Burgers, BBQ, and Southern comfort food.
Korean: Korean BBQ, bibimbap, and street food.
African: Ethiopian, Moroccan, and West African dishes.
Eastern European: Polish, Russian, and Balkan cuisines.

2. Notable Restaurants

Here are some of the most popular and highly-rated international restaurants in Edinburgh:

Italian

Contini Ristorante: A family-run Italian restaurant offering fresh, seasonal dishes. Located on George Street.
- Average Cost: £20–£30 per person.
La Favorita: Known for its wood-fired pizzas and casual atmosphere.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Indian

Dishoom: A Bombay-style café with a retro vibe, serving small plates and hearty curries.
- Average Cost: £20–£35 per person.
Mother India’s Café: Tapas-style Indian dining, perfect for sharing.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Chinese

Karen’s Unicorn: A local favorite for Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist.
- Average Cost: £20–£30 per person.
Chop Chop: Specializing in Northern Chinese dumplings and small plates.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Japanese

Kanpai Sushi: A high-end sushi restaurant with fresh, beautifully presented dishes.
- Average Cost: £30–£50 per person.
Harajuku Kitchen: A casual spot for authentic Japanese comfort food.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Thai

Chaophraya: A stylish Thai restaurant with stunning rooftop views of the city.
- Average Cost: £25–£40 per person.
Ting Thai Caravan: A popular street food-inspired eatery with a casual vibe.
- Average Cost: £10–£20 per person.

Mexican

Bodega: A small, trendy spot known for its creative tacos.
- Average Cost: £10–£20 per person.
El Cartel: A lively restaurant offering authentic Mexican street food.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Middle Eastern

Pomegranate: A cozy restaurant serving Lebanese and Persian dishes.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.
Hanam’s: Specializing in Kurdish and Middle Eastern cuisine, with halal options.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

French

The Honours: A sophisticated brasserie by renowned chef Martin Wishart.
- Average Cost: £40–£60 per person.
Côte Brasserie: A chain offering classic French dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Average Cost: £20–£30 per person.

Spanish

Café Andaluz: A vibrant tapas bar with a wide selection of small plates.
- Average Cost: £20–£30 per person.
Bodega: Known for its Spanish-inspired tacos and small plates.
- Average Cost: £15–£25 per person.

Korean

Kim’s Mini Meals: A hidden gem offering authentic Korean home-cooked dishes.
- Average Cost: £10–£20 per person.
Koreana: A more upscale option for Korean BBQ and traditional dishes.
- Average Cost: £20–£35 per person.

African

Nile Valley Café: A casual spot for Sudanese and East African cuisine.
- Average Cost: £10–£20 per person.
Maison Bleue: A fusion of French, North African, and Scottish flavors.
- Average Cost: £20–£30 per person.

3. Average Costs

Casual Dining: £10–£20 per person.
Mid-Range Restaurants: £20–£40 per person.
Fine Dining: £50+ per person.

Prices typically include VAT but not service charges. Tipping is customary, with 10–15% being standard for good service.

4. Reservation Procedures

Online Reservations: Most restaurants in Edinburgh allow online bookings through their websites or platforms like OpenTable, ResDiary, or Quandoo.
Phone Reservations: Calling the restaurant directly is also common, especially for smaller or more traditional establishments.
Walk-Ins: Casual eateries and street food spots often don’t require reservations, but popular places can have long waits during peak hours.
Advance Booking: For fine dining or highly popular restaurants (e.g., Dishoom or Chaophraya), it’s advisable to book 1–2 weeks in advance, especially on weekends.

5. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM, while dinner service starts around 5:30 PM and can go until 10:00 PM or later.
Dietary Preferences: Many restaurants cater to dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. Always inform the staff in advance.
BYOB: Some smaller restaurants allow you to bring your own alcohol (BYOB), often with a small corkage fee.
Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping 10–15% is appreciated for good service. Some restaurants include a service charge, so check your bill.
Dress Code: Most restaurants in Edinburgh are casual or smart-casual. Fine dining establishments may require more formal attire.
Alcohol: Scotland has strict alcohol laws. You must be 18 or older to purchase or consume alcohol in restaurants.

6. Additional Resources

Food Festivals: Edinburgh hosts several food festivals throughout the year, such as the Edinburgh Food Festival (July) and the Edinburgh International Festival’s culinary events.
Street Food: For a more casual experience, check out The Pitt Market or Stockbridge Market for international street food vendors.
Delivery Options: Many restaurants partner with delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat.

Edinburgh’s international dining scene is as diverse as its history and culture. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of ramen, a spicy curry, or a plate of tapas, the city offers endless options to satisfy your taste buds. Bon appétit!