The best places to spend your anniversary in Edinburgh

Tucked away in the maritime port of Leith, The Kitchin is a culinary landmark, led by renowned local chef Tom Kitchin. This Michelin starred establishment embodies the spirit of Scottish cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, expect a menu that showcases the best of Scotland’s larder. You can really push the boat out by booking The Prestige Tasting Menu, comprising an amuse bouche, pre-starter, starter, middle course, main course, cheese course (£20 supplement), pre-dessert and dessert followed by coffee or tea with homemade chocolate and caramel shortcake. To complement your meal, The Kitchin boasts an extensive wine list featuring carefully selected bottles from around the world. The sommeliers are on hand to help you find a suitable match, or you can opt for the set wine pairing.

Can you tell your chardonnay from your chablis? If you’re a wine aficionado, or just like a good glass of vino after work, book a table here for a laid-back anniversary drinkathon in sophisticated surroundings. Ecco Vino feels very grown up, so you’ll sidestep any of the family friendliness that’s the antithesis of anniversary beverages for two. A menu of small plates ensures you won’t go hungry as you imbibe.

This neighbourhood haunt lies where Haymarket meets Dalry. It has gained a strong reputation for its delicious food and warm hospitality since its inception in 2005. And as you may guess from the name, there’s plenty of seafood in the mix. First Coast’s interior exudes a cosy and inviting vibe, with its wooden floors, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting that feels somewhere between the Scottish seaside and the Med (the menu also echoes these locations). One of the standout features of First Coast is its commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. The restaurant offers excellent value for money, making it a popular choice for those looking for a memorable date night meal that doesn’t break the bank. And if you’re local to the area, you won’t need a taxi home. 

For an enchanting anniversary dinner, The Witchery by the Castle provides a unique and magical setting. Located just off the Royal Mile, this historic 16th century building exudes opulence and grandeur. Step into a world of candlelit indulgence and enjoy a culinary journey through Scotland, with attentive silver service. Whether you choose the oak-panelled Witchery dining room or the elegant Secret Garden, each area has its own unique charm. As The Witchery has bedrooms (as lavish and historic as its restaurant), you might want to make a night of it in a four-poster suite with a pre-order of some fine champagne. Arranging this will certainly get you some brownie points with the other half.

For a unique dining experience, head to Timberyard – a converted warehouse tucked away in the heart of the city centre. Embracing a farm-to-table ethos, this family-run restaurant highlights locally sourced and foraged ingredients. Its menu presents an exploration of ingredients, textures and aromas that will ignite your senses (the tasting menu is a great way to experience the full range of Timberyard’s culinary expertise). Priding itself on its eco-friendly practices, Timberyard uses renewable energy, recycles waste and grows its own produce in an on-site garden. This dedication to ethical dining adds an extra layer of appreciation to the dining experience. With its rustic-chic design and passionate commitment to quality, Timberyard promises an anniversary celebration that combines culinary excellence with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those who hate pretension and fuss but love great food.