09 Sep 2024
Escape the chill and discover these Edinburgh hotspots
With its cold winds and biting frost, it’s no wonder you might be on the lookout for somewhere cosy to grab a bite to eat in Scotland’s capital. Luckily, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s most inviting restaurants. Whether you want to spend an afternoon sat round a crackling fire with a couple of drinks or tucked away in a secret nook, watching the world go by, we have you covered. Read on to discover some of Edinburgh’s best – and cosiest – places to dine.
With its low-lighting and wooden framing this Thistle Street gem is both intimate and stylish. Perfect for a warm and welcoming winter dinner, the Bon Vivant boasts some of the city’s best Scottish food. All the plates have a modern-twist (think Haggis Bon Bons and Venison Pasties) and their rich and indulgent mains (Roasted Pork Belly; Rump Steak) will leave you feeling satisfied. With small candles burning on each table and gentle music playing in the background, the atmosphere is decidedly homely. Book a table if you can, or otherwise perch at the bar, where you can sip your drink and indulge in some serious people-watching.
If it’s cosy you’re after, Fhior, with its simple Nordic-inspired décor, is a must. The Michelin guide commends its creative cooking and we can see why. Cod is served alongside oyster, elderflower and smoked cod sauce and langoustine is paired with rhubarb and borage. The interior is small and, though friendly, the restaurant is laid-back and peaceful: perfect to indulge in a quiet, intimate dinner or gathering. The prices aren’t cheap, but we promise you won’t regret splashing out a bit here. Tourists and locals alike can’t seem to get enough!
As its name would suggest, The Little Chartroom is a small eatery situated on the middle of Leith Walk. With a decidedly low-key vibe, the restaurant offers up unpretentious – but nonetheless spectacular dishes – in beautiful surroundings. Head there for a super-cosy Sunday brunch, where you’ll be greeted with Eggs Benedict (brightened up with ox tongue!) or a light dinner, where fresh Scottish fish regularly makes an appearance.
As authentic as they come, this tiny French bistro is seriously loved amongst pretty much everyone in the city. With kitsch red and white gingham tablecloths, dramatic candles and low lighting, we can’t think of anywhere cosier and more romantic to tuck into a meal. The owners are really friendly, as are all the staff, and always up for a chat. The value for money here is superb: their Steak in Peppercorn Sauce with Fries will only set you back £9.90, but the quality still remains extremely high. Bustling and filled with chatter, we guarantee this eatery will warm your heart. Treat yourself to a glass of wine and soak up the buzzy atmosphere as you tuck into some seriously good French nosh.
Fancy tucking yourself away in a small café, hidden away from the rest of the world? This one’s for you. If the tempting smells of coffee beans and freshly baked cakes and brownies drifting through The Milkman doesn’t scream ‘cosy’ we don’t know what does! Bag the best seat in the house (a small bench by the window) and gaze at passers-by as you leaf through a book and sip some of the city’s best coffee. With its touches of tartan, stone and wood, the interior is welcoming and warm. Alongside the mouth-watering array of homemade bakes (we like the carrot loaf) we promise you’ll feel right at home.