Quirky restaurants in Edinburgh

The Table is an intimate ten seater restaurant located in the heart of the capital. Renowned chef, Sean Clark proposes a multi-course tasting menu along the marble counter with an open kitchen where interaction with him and his colleagues is encouraged (no pressure for the introverts). Their cuisine is focused on European flavours and an obvious Scottish leaning. It’s a BYOB restaurant so don’t forget your magic potion. This spot has established itself as the first interactive fine dining experience in Edinburgh. If you want to join the movement, reserve your seat!

Picture this: traditional family recipes that have been passed down for three generations, fused with innovative flair and modern cooking. The result: some of the finest Japanese cuisines in Edinburgh. This award-winning restaurant will transport you out of muggy Edinburgh to take you to the bustling streets of Tokyo. The venue is authentic, the food is great, and it’s surely one of our favourite quirky restaurants in Edinburgh. Get a slice of the action!

If you’re looking for a Scottish seafood experience to remember, head to Ondine. Located just off the Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, this luxury but affordable seafood restaurant offers some of the freshest produce in the country, accompanied by unrivalled panoramic views of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Their menu offers choices and prices to suit all palates and pockets. Sit at their oysters’ bar for the full experience, relax and enjoy!

At the foot of Calton Hill, you’ll find Gardeners Cottage, a quirky restaurant in Edinburgh that is doubtless worth the trip. Located in the Royal Terrace Gardens, this building was once the cottage of the gardeners (which you may have guessed by the restaurant’s name, you smarty pants). Seated at long communal tables, you’ll be able to enjoy weekend brunch, an a la carte menu, or an inventive seven-course dinner menu. “Eating at Cottage is one of those experiences that stops the world for a while, and we can always do with one of those” (Jay Rayner, The Guardian).

If you’re looking for real Indian street food (we’re talking the real deal here), try Tuk Tuk. It’s a chilled-out, fun, and colourful Indian restaurant serving authentic small plates of all types. From roadsides dishes to different curries, grilled meats, tandoor plates, and yummy sides, this gem will “tuk” you directly to sunny Mumbai. Book your table here, don’t forget to BYOB, and get ready for a trip on the other side of the world!