Edinburgh, Scotland is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it an ideal destination for food lovers looking to explore a variety of dishes from around the world. From traditional Scottish fare like haggis and whisky to international flavors like sushi, tacos, and curry, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
One of the key reasons why Edinburgh is such a great place to enjoy diverse cuisine is its rich history of immigration. Over the centuries, Scotland has welcomed people from all corners of the globe, bringing with them their unique culinary traditions and ingredients. Today, you can find restaurants serving dishes from countries like Italy, Japan, Mexico, and India, right in the heart of the city.
Another factor that makes Edinburgh a food lover’s paradise is its thriving food scene. The city is home to numerous farmers’ markets, where locals and tourists alike can sample fresh produce and artisanal products. There are also plenty of street food vendors selling everything from traditional Scottish pies to exotic dishes from around the world.
In addition to its diverse culinary offerings, Edinburgh is also known for its excellent drinking establishments. From cozy pubs serving locally brewed beers to upscale cocktail bars mixing innovative concoctions, there’s no shortage of places to quench your thirst and savor a delicious meal.
Overall, Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves food. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and diverse range of dishes, this city offers something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Scottish fare or exotic cuisine from around the world, you’ll find it all here in Edinburgh.
What are the some of the local fast food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. The “Edinburgh Steak Pie” – This classic Scottish dish is filled with juicy beef, onions, and haggis, all wrapped up in a buttery puff pastry crust. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for a cold and rainy day in Scotland.
2. “Tattie and Cheese” – This simple yet delicious fast food item is made up of mashed potatoes topped with melted cheese and sometimes bacon or ham. It’s a comforting dish that’s beloved by locals and tourists alike.
3. “Haggis and Neeps” – Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oats, onions, and spices, is often served with mashed turnips (neeps). This combination of flavors and textures makes for a unique and delicious meal.
4. “Fish and Chips” – While not exclusive to Edinburgh, this classic British dish is a staple in Scottish cuisine. Fresh battered fish is fried until crispy and golden brown, then served with thick-cut chips (fries) and a side of malt vinegar. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that never goes out of style.
5. “The Edinburgh Sausage Roll” – This pastry-wrapped sausage is a popular fast food item in Scotland, especially during the holiday season. The sausage is typically made with pork and herbs, and the pastry is flaky and buttery. It’s a delicious and portable snack that’s perfect for on the go.
What are the some of the traditional food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Haggis: This iconic Scottish dish is made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, and spices, and cooked inside the sheep’s stomach. The unique texture and combination of flavors make it a must-try for any visitor to Edinburgh.
2. Cullen Skink: This hearty soup is made from smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream, and is named after the town of Cullen in Moray where it originated. The rich, smoky flavor of the haddock and the creaminess of the soup make it a comforting and satisfying meal.
3. Macarons: These delicate French pastries are made from almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, and are often filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam. The unique texture and flavors of macarons make them a popular dessert in Edinburgh, and there are many bakeries that specialize in this delicious treat.
4. Tartan Cake: This colorful cake is made from layers of sponge, filled with raspberry jam, and topped with a layer of buttercream frosting. The unique tartan pattern on top of the cake makes it a fun and festive dessert, and it is often served at Scottish weddings and other celebrations.
5. Neeps and Tatties: This traditional Scottish dish consists of mashed turnips (neeps) and boiled potatoes (tatties), served together with a side of gravy. The unique combination of flavors and textures make it a comforting and satisfying meal, and it is often served as a side dish in many Edinburgh restaurants.
What are the some of the Indian food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Chaat Masala: This Indian street food is a spicy mix of chickpeas, potatoes, and yogurt sauce, often topped with chutney and crispy fried dough. It’s a popular dish in India and can be found in various forms across the world. In Edinburgh, Scotland, you can find authentic chaat masala at local Indian restaurants such as Chutnify and Dosa Plaza. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Edinburgh.
2. Samosas: These savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, are a staple in Indian cuisine. They can be found all over the world, but in Edinburgh, Scotland, you can find some of the best samosas at local restaurants such as Maharadscha and Samosa Palace. The unique crispy texture and bold flavors make these pastries a popular choice for snacks or meals.
3. Butter Chicken: This creamy and flavorful dish is made with chicken marinated in butter, cream, and a blend of spices, then slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a classic Indian dish that can be found at many restaurants around the world, including in Edinburgh, Scotland. Local favorites include Chutnify and Dosa Plaza. The unique combination of rich flavors and tender chicken makes this dish a crowd pleaser.
4. Masala Dosa: This thin and crispy South Indian crepe is filled with spiced potatoes and onions, often served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based soup). It’s a popular dish in India and can be found all over the world. In Edinburgh, Scotland, you can find some of the best masala dosas at local restaurants such as Dosa Plaza and Masala Dosa Corner. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Edinburgh.
5. Gulab Jamun: These sweet dough balls are soaked in sugar syrup and often topped with crushed nuts or cream. They’re a popular dessert in India and can be found all over the world. In Edinburgh, Scotland, you can find some of the best gulab jamuns at local restaurants such as Chutnify and Dosa Plaza. The unique combination of sweetness and texture makes these dough balls a popular choice for dessert lovers.
What are the some of the Chinese food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Dumplings: Dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine and can be found all over the world, but in Edinburgh, Scotland, they take on a new level of deliciousness. The city is home to several Chinese restaurants that specialize in dumplings, including Wonton House on Princes Street and Haggart’s Chinese Takeaway on Nicolson Street. These dumplings are made with fresh ingredients and are often served with a side of soy sauce or chili oil. The unique thing about these dumplings is that they are often filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, giving them a rich and flavorful taste.
2. Kung Pao Chicken: Kung Pao Chicken is a popular Chinese dish made with chicken, peanuts, chili peppers, and vegetables. It originated in the Sichuan province of China and is known for its spicy and savory flavors. In Edinburgh, Scotland, there are several restaurants that serve Kung Pao Chicken, including Golden Wok on Leith Walk and Mandarin Garden on George Square. The unique thing about these dishes is that they often include a variety of spices and seasonings, giving them a distinctive taste that is both bold and flavorful.
3. Hot Pot: Hot Pot is a Chinese dish in which meat, vegetables, and noodles are cooked together in a bubbling broth. It originated in the Sichuan province of China and is known for its spicy and savory flavors. In Edinburgh, Scotland, there are several restaurants that serve Hot Pot, including Spice & Taste on Princes Street and Dragon Phoenix on Rosebery Avenue. The unique thing about these dishes is that they often include a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles, giving them a versatile and satisfying meal.
4. Dim Sum: Dim Sum is a Chinese dish made up of small bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. It originated in the Cantonese region of China and is known for its delicate flavors and textures. In Edinburgh, Scotland, there are several restaurants that serve Dim Sum, including Yau Wah Hai on Princes Street and Golden Light on Leith Walk. The unique thing about these dishes is that they often include a variety of meats, vegetables, and seafood, giving them a diverse and flavorful taste.
5. Bao Buns: Bao Buns are a type of Chinese sandwich made with a soft, fluffy bun filled with meat, vegetables, and sauce. They originated in Taiwan and have become popular all over the world. In Edinburgh, Scotland, there are several restaurants that serve Bao Buns, including Bao Street on Rosebery Avenue and Baozi Palace on Princes Street. The unique thing about these dishes is that they often include a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces, giving them a versatile and flavorful taste.
What are the some of the Italian food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Cullen Skink: This hearty soup is made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream, and is a staple of Scottish cuisine. It originated in the town of Cullen in the Scottish Highlands and is known for its rich, smoky flavor. In Edinburgh, there are many places that serve authentic Cullen Skink, such as The Bothan Nos and MacGregor’s Tavern.
2. Haggis: This dish is made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, and spices, and wrapped in the animal’s stomach. It is a traditional Scottish dish that is often served with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes). In Edinburgh, there are many places that serve haggis, such as The Royal Oak and The Wellington Monument.
3. Tartan Sauce: This condiment is made with horseradish, mustard, and a touch of brown sugar, and is often served with fish and chips. It is a Scottish staple that is known for its tangy, spicy flavor. In Edinburgh, there are many places that serve tartan sauce, such as The Saltire and The Blackfriars.
4. Cannonballs: These deep-fried balls of battered and fried fish are a popular Scottish dish. They are typically made with haddock or cod and are served with mash and gravy. In Edinburgh, there are many places that serve cannonballs, such as The Fish Market and The Royal Oak.
5. Clamshells: These deep-fried balls of battered and fried seafood are a popular Scottish dish. They are typically made with haddock or cod and are served with mash and gravy. In Edinburgh, there are many places that serve clamshells, such as The Fish Market and The Royal Oak.
What are the some of the Japanese food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Ramen Burger: This fusion dish combines the classic Japanese ramen noodle soup with a juicy burger patty and a bun made from ramen noodles. The dish is topped with melted cheese, pickled ginger, and green onions for an extra burst of flavor. The Ramen Burger is a unique twist on traditional Japanese cuisine and is sure to satisfy your cravings for both noodles and burgers.
2. Takoyaki: These deep-fried balls of wheat flour are filled with diced octopus, tempura pieces, green onion, and pickled ginger. They are then served with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Takoyaki is a popular street food in Japan and is known for its crispy exterior and chewy interior.
3. Yakitori: These skewered chicken pieces are grilled to perfection and seasoned with either a sweet soy-based sauce or salt. Yakitori is a staple of Japanese izakayas (pubs) and is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The dish is unique for its versatility, as it can be made with various cuts of chicken and seasoned in different ways.
4. Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake is made from a batter of wheat flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage. It is then topped with various ingredients such as seafood, meat, vegetables, and cheese. Okonomiyaki is a popular street food in Japan and is known for its hearty and filling nature.
5. Sushi Rolls: These hand-pressed rolls of sushi are made from vinegared rice and various types of fish, such as salmon, tuna, and eel. They can be wrapped in seaweed or avocado and are often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Sushi Rolls are a staple of Japanese cuisine and are known for their freshness and presentation.
What are the some of the Mexican food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Chiles Rellenos: This dish features stuffed peppers filled with either cheese or meat and coated in egg and fried until crispy. The peppers are then served with a spicy tomato sauce. Chiles Rellenos are a Mexican classic that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and flavorful.
2. Tacos al Pastor: This dish features thinly sliced pork that has been marinated in spices and chilies, served on a warm corn tortilla with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and pineapple. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish is truly unique and unforgettable.
3. Enchiladas: This dish features rolled tortillas filled with cheese or meat, covered in a spicy sauce, and topped with cheese. Enchiladas are a comforting and delicious Mexican dish that is perfect for a hearty meal.
4. Pozole: This hearty soup features hominy, pork, and chilies simmered together until the flavors have melded together. Pozole is a traditional Mexican dish that is often enjoyed during the winter months.
5. Guacamole: This dip is made from mashed avocado, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Guacamole is a versatile dish that can be served as a dip or a topping for tacos, burritos, and more. The freshness of the ingredients used in guacamole really sets it apart from other dips.
What are the some of the Thai food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a classic Thai dish made with rice noodles, stir-fried with vegetables, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It’s a popular choice in Edinburgh, Scotland, where you can find many Thai restaurants serving up this mouthwatering dish. What sets Pad Thai apart from other noodle dishes is the use of tamarind paste, which gives it a unique sweet and sour flavor. The dish is often topped with fried eggs, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts, adding an extra layer of texture and crunch.
2. Tom Yum Soup: Tom Yum soup is a spicy and sour Thai soup made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day in Edinburgh. What makes Tom Yum soup unique is the use of fragrant herbs and spices that give it a distinct Thai flavor. The soup often includes shrimp, mushrooms, and tomatoes, adding a variety of textures and flavors to each bite.
3. Green Curry: Green curry is a creamy and spicy Thai dish made with coconut milk, green chilies, and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s a popular choice in Edinburgh, where you can find many Thai restaurants serving up this flavorful dish. What sets green curry apart from other curries is the use of green chilies, which give it a bright green color and a fiery kick. The dish often includes chicken, eggplant, and bamboo shoots, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity to each bite.
4. Pad See Ew: Pad See Ew is a stir-fried Thai noodle dish made with rice noodles, stir-fried with vegetables, pork or shrimp, and a sweet and savory soy sauce. It’s a popular choice in Edinburgh, where you can find many Thai restaurants serving up this delicious dish. What sets Pad See Ew apart from other noodle dishes is the use of wide rice noodles, which have a chewy texture that holds up well in the stir-fry. The dish is often topped with fried shallots and crushed peanuts, adding an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
5. Mango Sticky Rice: Mango sticky rice is a sweet and creamy Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes. It’s a popular choice in Edinburgh, where you can find many Thai restaurants serving up this delicious dessert. What sets mango sticky rice apart from other desserts is the use of glutinous rice, which has a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy coconut milk and juicy mangoes. The dish is often topped with chopped nuts and sesame seeds, adding an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
What are the some of the Middle East food dishes to eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?
1. Falafel: This Middle Eastern dish made of chickpeas mashed with herbs and spices, then fried until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, is a must-try in Edinburgh. The falafel at Al-Mazed, a popular Middle Eastern restaurant, is particularly noteworthy for its generous portions and fresh ingredients.
2. Shawarma: This Middle Eastern wrap filled with marinated meat (such as chicken or lamb), vegetables, and a tangy sauce, is a beloved street food in Edinburgh. Shawarma from Shawarma Palace on Princes Street is a standout for its juicy meat and authentic spices.
3. Kebabs: These skewered meats grilled to perfection are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and can be found throughout Edinburgh. The kebabs at Kismet Kebab House in Leith are particularly noteworthy for their tender lamb and generous portions.
4. Hummus: This creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, is a popular appetizer or side dish in Middle Eastern cuisine. The hummus at Hummus Bazaar on George Square is particularly noteworthy for its smooth texture and fresh ingredients.
5. Baklava: This sweet pastry filled with chopped nuts and honey is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is also popular in Edinburgh. The baklava at Patisserie Valerie on Princes Street is particularly noteworthy for its delicate layers of filo and generous amounts of honey and nuts.