Edinburgh has an absolutely thriving food scene, with hundreds of restaurants that span all sorts of cuisines from around the globe. From authentic Italian pizza to US/Scottish fusion (and yes, that is as good as it sounds), we have it all covered right here in this fine city. So why go dragging yourself around the world, when you can enjoy the best and most varied cuisine right on your doorstep? Let's pack our cases and explore Edinburgh in the wonderful breadth and depth of the nosh on offer!
Sushi at Bonsai Bistro
Let's make a start in Japan at Bonsai Bistro, which you can find either on Broughton Street in the city centre, or West Richmond Place in Newington. During festival season the latter is normally crammed with casual diners, and it's easy to see why. They have all the standard dishes you would expect of a decent sushi diner (nigiri, maki and California rolls) as well as some more unusual choices, like the strangely moreish cheese gyoza. The chicken yakitori and beef teriyaki are also solid choices here. The food all comes in at a reasonable price, but be willing to fight for a seat if you rock up during peak times.
Fish and chips at Canons' Gait
This recently renovated pub on the Royal Mile has a great food menu which reaches a peak with its fantastic fish and chips. The batter is light and crispy and the chips chunky and perfectly seasoned. The highlight of the meal though is the delicious and creamy minted mushy peas, which just beg to be gobbled up all at once.
Burger and chips at Clerk's Bar
Trying to find the best burger in Edinburgh is a mammoth task, but one of my favourites has to be the one served up at Clerk's Bar. Their mantra is "fresh food cooked slow", and it is an absolute haven for any carnivores in Newington, with meaty eats such as smoked chicken wings, ribs and pulled pork. The prices, like a fiver for a burger on its own or £7 with chips, are excellent value to boot.
Curry at the Mosque Kitchen
If it's value for money you're after, then head a little bit down the road to the Mosque Kitchen, where you'll get arguably the most value-for-money plate of food in Edinburgh. There are no airs or graces here, it's very much case of grab your tray and get your food on a plastic plate, but with prices like £3.50 for a full sized and flavoursome vegetable curry, you really can't complain.
Pizza at Origano
The competition for best pizza in Edinburgh is almost as tough as the one for best burger, but Origano, a little cosy eatery nestled on Leith Walk, is a firm contender. The pizza dough is authentically thin and crispy, with a range of sizes and variety of sizes to suit any appetite. The margarita speciale, with its various cheeses, cherry tomatoes and basil, is a solid choice.
Ham, egg and chips at the Sheep's Heid
The menu full of traditional gastropub favourites is a welcome sight at the Sheep Heid Inn in Duddingston, especially if you've spent the day rambling around Holyrood Park. Their take on the usually humble ham, egg and chips is an absolute treat, with delicious chunky chips and delicately flavoured ham, which is cut lovely and thick. Wash down with a pint of refreshing beer and you've got a perfect reward for conquering the summit of nearby Arthur's Seat!
Spaghetti Carbonara at Taste of Italy
If you fancy authentic Italian food at a fair price, look no further than Taste of Italy, which is located beside the Playhouse near Elm Row. Their spaghetti carbonara is a firm favourite, with a delicious creamy sauce and lovely thick smokey bacon. You get a decent portion for only £5.95, which makes it a perfect budget option for a pre-theatre meal.
The Scotdog at The Other Place
Think of a dish - any dish - and chances are that if you look hard enough, in Edinburgh you'll find an establishment that makes it with haggis. Burgers, pizza, burritos... you name it. One such wonderful concoction is the Scotdog at The Other Place, which combines Scotland's favourite staple... with a hot dog. Don't knock it until you've tried it. The Scotdog comes with a healthy serving of chips and lashings of peppercorn gravy, which makes it a tasty meal to be reckoned with. The combo of the haggis, hotdog and bun soaked with gravy is, quite simply, something that everyone has to try at least once.