Where to go for brunch in Edinburgh

There’s no better way to start the weekend than with a lie-in followed by some bubbly, morning cocktails and delicious breakfast scran. Tuck into your choice of eggs, pancakes, French toast, or smashed avo and wash it down with a spicy bloody Mary, an espresso martini, a bespoke brunch beverage, or even a bottle of fine Champagne. Here’s our ultimate guide on where to go for your next (boozy) brunch in Edinburgh.

Set inside a charming 15th century building, The King’s Wark is a gorgeous spot to enjoy a tasty brunch. Just next to Leith Shore, the pub has a cosy, welcoming feel with its wooden panelling and exposed brick walls. The emphasis here is on fresh, local produce and there’s an extensive drinks list too (including a handful of tasty cocktails). Don’t miss the full Scottish breakfast, or the homemade bagel loaded with cream cheese and fresh smoked salmon.

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For an upscale and chic brunch, look no further than the centrally located Red Squirrel. With smart interiors and a glitzy bar, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family. Brunch is available throughout the week, and the choices are extensive. From classic eggs Benedict and avocado toast to spicy buttermilk chicken waffles and shakshuka, there’s something to suit all tastes. Drinks-wise, you can’t go wrong with one (or two!) brunch cocktails. The ‘Red Snapper’, made with gin, lemon, tomato juice and hot sauce is a perfect pick-me-up, but if you prefer something a little fruitier, the breakfast martini (complete with gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and orange marmalade) is a must try.  

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A bright and breezy eatery, Urban Angel is all about fair trade, organic and locally sourced ingredients. Right in the heart of the city, it’s a relaxed meeting point for those in search of a scrumptious brunch! All the bread is made in-house, and there’s a great mix between hearty, filling fare (like Nutella-topped French toast) and lighter, fruit-filled plates including smoothie bowls. To drink, there’s a range of tipples — mimosas, espresso martinis, smoothies, batch brew speciality coffees, you name it!

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This venue is currently not accepting online reservations through Dish Cult. 

Located in Edinburgh’s old town, Holyrood 9a is a great spot if you’re looking for a no-frills brunch experience. A bustling (dog-friendly!) gastropub, this spot is home to 25 beer taps and a food menu that smacks of comfort! There are breakfast rolls, warm Belgian waffles served with bacon and maple syrup, veggie fry-ups and halloumi-topped toast. The coffee here is exceptional, and beyond the beers there are a range of tempting cocktails and mocktails that pair excellently with the brunch dishes.

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The Southern
cuisinesBar, Brunch, American
Aerial shot of couple at a table with burgers and fries

As its name suggests, food at The Southern is inspired by Southern comfort food from the States — think mac and cheese bites with mayo, beer battered pickles, chicken and cauliflower wings and hot dogs! The food is hearty and generous, and big on flavour. There are plenty of options for veggies and vegans (like the plant-based burger or piri piri halloumi), and if you’ve got a sweet-tooth, you’re in luck. From freshly made doughnuts tossed in cinnamon and sugar to a cherry-topped banana split, all the dishes feel super fun. There is a wide selection of beers available, as well as ciders and low-alcohol tipples. We love the cocktails (hello spicy margarita!) and hot drinks, too.

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Set the tone for the rest of the day and treat yourself to brunch in the award-winning Scottish Cafe and Restaurant. Situated in the Scottish National Gallery at The Mound in Edinburgh, this place is ready to welcome you for Sunday brunch from 10am-3pm. The menu includes a range of hearty breakfast options, which are ideal to get you ready for a day shopping in the capital.

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No need to wake up early for this one, Contini serves brunch all day Sunday from 10am-5pm – hurray! Whether you’re struggling with a hangover or just feeling a bit sluggish, Contini has a wide selection of brunch dishes on offer that will have you feeling great in no time. From fresh salmon to a healthy avocado loaded brunch, there are also great cocktails to go with brunch, if you’re up to it?

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Is it really Sunday without brunch? Open from 10am-1.30pm on Sundays, The Little Chartroom is a great addition to the Edinburgh restaurant scene. With only 18 covers we recommend booking a table if you want to avoid disappointment. It might be ‘little’ but the food here packs a big punch. Have a look at the full brunch menu as there is sure to be something that takes your fancy.

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Fruitmarket Café, located inside the pretty Fruitmarket art gallery and cultural space, offers healthy and vibrant dishes all sourced from sustainable suppliers. The prices are reasonable, and the space is child-friendly with welcoming staff and lots of space to run around in. There’s baked eggs with baby aubergine, feta and pickled onions, vegan mushroom rolls made with veggie haggis, and oat granola with coconut yoghurt and berries. For something a little more indulgent, Fruitmarket Café offers a selection of pastries as well as homemade cakes. There are loose teas, speciality coffees and a range of beers and cocktails available to enjoy with your food, too.

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Located to the west of Edinburgh city centre, in the neighbourhoods of Murrayfield, Roseburn, Ravelston and Corstorphine you will find Dine, a local community restaurant. Nestled by the banks of the Water of Leith, the historic location of the 1745 Coltbridge Canter, where Murrayfield Stadium stands proud in the distance. There’s an exciting menu (available every day) of brunchtails and mocktails, alongside teas and coffees, while the Scottish breakfast, Murrayfield Grand Slam and minute steak here are all legendary.

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