Edinburgh

๐Ÿ“ฆ

Takeaway and Delivery

Options for on-the-go meals and food delivery services available in the city.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Takeaway and Delivery in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a vibrant city with a rich culinary scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're a visitor or a new resident, takeaway and delivery services are an integral part of the city's food culture. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the takeaway and delivery options in Edinburgh.

1. Types of Food Available

Edinburgh offers a diverse range of cuisines through its takeaway and delivery services. Here are some popular options:

  • Traditional Scottish Food: Haggis, neeps, and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes), Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup), and Scotch pies.
  • British Classics: Fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and full English breakfasts.
  • Indian Cuisine: Edinburgh has a strong Indian food scene, with curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes being widely available.
  • Chinese Cuisine: Popular dishes include sweet and sour chicken, chow mein, and dim sum.
  • Italian Cuisine: Pizza, pasta, and risotto are common, with many authentic Italian restaurants offering delivery.
  • Middle Eastern Food: Falafel, kebabs, shawarma, and hummus are widely available.
  • American Fast Food: Burgers, fried chicken, and milkshakes from both local and international chains.
  • Vegan and Vegetarian Options: Edinburgh is known for being vegan-friendly, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes.
  • Sushi and Japanese Cuisine: Sushi, ramen, and bento boxes are popular choices.
  • Street Food and Fusion: Gourmet burgers, bao buns, and loaded fries are trendy options.
  • Desserts: Ice cream, waffles, crepes, and cakes are available from specialized dessert shops.

2. Popular Services and Platforms

Several platforms and services dominate the takeaway and delivery scene in Edinburgh:

Delivery Platforms

  1. Just Eat:

    • One of the most popular platforms in the UK.
    • Offers a wide range of cuisines and restaurants.
    • Website and app are user-friendly.
    • Delivery fees vary but are usually between ยฃ1.50 and ยฃ4.00.

  2. Deliveroo:

    • Known for partnering with higher-end restaurants and local favorites.
    • Offers a subscription service called "Deliveroo Plus" for free delivery on orders over ยฃ25.
    • Delivery fees range from ยฃ2.50 to ยฃ5.00, depending on distance.

  3. Uber Eats:

    • Features a mix of fast food chains and local eateries.
    • Often runs promotions and discounts for new users.
    • Delivery fees typically range from ยฃ1.50 to ยฃ4.00.

  4. Local Restaurant Websites:

    • Many restaurants in Edinburgh offer direct delivery through their own websites or phone orders.
    • This can sometimes save on delivery fees.

Fast Food Chains

  • McDonaldโ€™s, KFC, Subway, and Dominoโ€™s Pizza all offer delivery services through their apps or platforms like Uber Eats and Just Eat.

Specialized Services

  • Scoffable: A smaller platform focusing on local takeaways, particularly for Chinese, Indian, and fish and chips.
  • Zedify: A sustainable delivery service using bicycles, often used by eco-conscious restaurants.

3. Average Costs

The cost of takeaway and delivery in Edinburgh varies depending on the type of food and restaurant:

  • Fast Food: ยฃ5โ€“ยฃ10 per meal (e.g., burgers, fries, and drinks).
  • Mid-Range Restaurants: ยฃ10โ€“ยฃ20 per person (e.g., curries, pizzas, or sushi).
  • High-End Restaurants: ยฃ20โ€“ยฃ40 per person for gourmet or fine dining options.
  • Delivery Fees: ยฃ1.50โ€“ยฃ5.00, depending on the platform and distance.
  • Minimum Order Amounts: Many restaurants require a minimum order of ยฃ10โ€“ยฃ15 for delivery.

4. How the Ordering Process Works

Ordering takeaway or delivery in Edinburgh is straightforward:

  1. Choose a Platform:

    • Download the app or visit the website of your chosen platform (e.g., Just Eat, Deliveroo, Uber Eats).
    • Alternatively, visit the restaurantโ€™s website or call them directly.

  2. Browse Restaurants:

    • Enter your postcode to see available restaurants in your area.
    • Filter by cuisine, dietary preferences, or delivery time.

  3. Select Your Food:

    • Add items to your cart.
    • Check for meal deals or discounts.

  4. Place Your Order:

    • Review your order and proceed to checkout.
    • Enter your delivery address and payment details (credit/debit card, PayPal, or cash on delivery, depending on the platform).

  5. Track Your Order:

    • Most platforms provide real-time tracking of your delivery.

  6. Receive Your Food:

    • Delivery drivers will usually leave the food at your door for contactless delivery unless otherwise specified.

5. Delivery Times

  • Peak Hours: Delivery times may be longer during lunch (12:00โ€“14:00) and dinner (18:00โ€“20:00) hours.
  • Average Wait Time: 30โ€“60 minutes, depending on the restaurant and distance.
  • Late-Night Options: Many takeaways and fast food chains operate until midnight or later, especially on weekends.

6. Tipping Culture

  • Tipping is not mandatory in the UK, but it is appreciated.
  • A tip of ยฃ1โ€“ยฃ3 is common for delivery drivers, depending on the size of the order and service quality.
  • Some platforms allow you to tip digitally when placing your order.

7. Local Considerations and Recommendations

Cultural Tips:

  • Fish and Chips: A must-try in Edinburgh. Look for local chippies like "The Tailend" or "L'Alba D'Oro."
  • Eco-Friendly Options: Many restaurants in Edinburgh focus on sustainability. Look for those using biodegradable packaging or services like Zedify.
  • Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Most platforms allow you to filter for gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options. Always double-check with the restaurant if you have severe allergies.

Recommendations for Visitors and Immigrants:

  • Try Local Specialties: Order haggis or Cullen skink from a traditional Scottish restaurant.
  • Explore Neighborhood Favorites: Areas like Leith and Stockbridge have excellent local eateries offering delivery.
  • Plan Ahead: During festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe (August), delivery times can be significantly longer due to high demand.
  • Check Reviews: Platforms like Just Eat and Deliveroo include customer reviews to help you choose the best options.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

  • Look for meal deals or discounts on platforms like Uber Eats and Deliveroo.
  • Some restaurants offer free delivery for orders over a certain amount.
  • Consider picking up your order directly from the restaurant to save on delivery fees.

8. Conclusion

Takeaway and delivery in Edinburgh are convenient, diverse, and cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. With numerous platforms and restaurants to choose from, youโ€™ll have no trouble finding something to suit your preferences. Whether youโ€™re craving traditional Scottish fare, international cuisine, or late-night comfort food, Edinburghโ€™s takeaway scene has you covered. Remember to explore local favorites, tip your delivery driver if possible, and enjoy the cityโ€™s culinary delights from the comfort of your home or accommodation.