The 10 Most Romantic Restaurants In Edinburgh

When love is in the air and life starts playing in slow motion, there is a possibility that you may become so distracted that eating takes a back seat. Take a note from Lady And The Tramp and let the bonding over a mutual love of food commence. Don’t worry about bits getting stuck in your teeth; oh, and certainly don’t stress over where to go — Culture Trip has done the groundwork for you. Here, we round up the most romantic restaurants in Edinburgh.

1. The Honours

Brasserie, Restaurant, Bistro, Deli, British, Contemporary, French, European

A plate of gnocchi with tomato in a white bowl with flecked with herbs

Let Michelin-starred Martin Wishart do the honors and set the tone for the date of all dates with the best of brasserie-style French-Scottish cuisine around. Gold and black hues offer a luxurious backdrop and the seasonal food is a shining example of the finest culinary fruits of Scotland. If the conversation fizzles out, why not discuss the meaning behind the name, The Honours? It stems from when Sir Walter Scott unearthed the Scottish Crown Jewels, or the Honours Of Scotland. Interestingly, it also draws upon a rare 18th century book by Rev. Dr. John Trusler The Honours Of The Table, in which he stressed the importance of polite table etiquette. Overall, this restaurant is an excellent pick for good conversation and perfect food.

21212

Chef Paul Kitching is the man behind the magic at 21212. Since 2009, this unique restaurant has commandeered the stomachs of foodies across Edinburgh. The only Michelin Star restaurant in Edinburgh with rooms, this fine eatery is part of a boutique hotel in a Georgian Townhouse. 21212 has an ever-changing innovative and fresh contemporary menu that never fails to whet the appetite. From the chic décor, endorphin-inducing food and stellar service, you can’t go wrong by dining here.

21212, 3 Royal Terrace, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 845 222 1212

2. La Garrigue

Bistro, Restaurant, French

La Garrigue – Creme Brûlée flavored with lavender

No one does ‘romantic’ better than the French. Take a leaf out of those with the language of love and make way for La Garrigue, a personable little bistro. Lap up the serene ambience and make chat over the French art adorning the walls, appreciate the artisanal furnishings and devour the tantalizing rustic family-style Languedoc cuisine. Of course, there is an overflowing selection of French wines, too. Bon appétit!

3. Aizle

Restaurant, British

Before a big date, it is only natural to fret over the likelihood of finding something of interest on the menu. Abolish that excruciating ‘what to order’ small talk and relax in knowing that Aizle has it all sorted. Instead, guests are provided with a stunning five-course meal based around seasonal produce. Every dish resembles an edible piece of art and the ineffable taste is second to none. A unique and enthusing dining experience, a night out at Aizle is sure to ignite any sparks that may not have been there before.

4. Monteiths

Gastropub, Restaurant, Bar, Cocktails, British, Wine, Beer, European

May the drinks flow and the romance blossom at Monteiths, an excellent cocktail bar and eatery nestled near Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. A perfect pick for those looking for relaxed vibes and comfortable chic settings, you will want to make Monteiths a regular date night spot. From excellent steaks and seasonal picks like lobster and oysters to genius cocktails and swathes of traditional tartan and hip interiors, it is hard not to get excited with this enchanting place.

5. Viva Mexico

Restaurant, Mexican, British, Vegetarian, Vegan, Street Food

Satisfy culinary cravings with a meal out at Viva Mexico, an authentic Mexican restaurant nestled away on Cockburn Street. The kaleidoscope of colors inside is unbelievably charming and the menu couldn’t be more perfect. Make sure to request the window seat for two with the great view of The Balmoral, Princes St and Waverley. The margaritas are wonderfully lethal, the food beyond more-ish, and the Irn-Bru sorbet a welcomed Scottish touch. This place is cramped yet cosy — then again, that may be exactly on the cards.

6. Jamie’s Italian

Restaurant, Italian, Vegetarian, Vegan

An ideal place for a first date, Jamie’s Italian is renowned for delicious food and smashing service. From the scarlet walls and dimmed lighting to the glistening chandeliers, red velvet chairs and ornate ceiling, Jamie Oliver’s restaurant, which is situated within The Assembly Rooms on George Street, is decadent and wildly romantic. Foodies will no doubt salivate over the perfectly cooked al dente pasta and other top eats. Overall, this is a most fail-safe option to let the butterflies start fluttering.

7. Pickles

Pickles

Pickles is a perfect pick for a light bite and plenty of brilliantly priced booze. In Pickles’ case, the light bite is a smorgasbord of cheese, and then some more cheese. The ambience is relaxed and addictive. From cheese balls and meat boards to crisps, lovely bread and a wine selection worth lusting over, you will want this spot all to yourself.

Pickles, 56A Broughton St, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 557 5005

Pickles | Courtesy Of Pickles

8. The Ship On The Shore

The Ship On The Shore

When the finest fruits of the ocean are all that will satisfy the appetite, a visit to The Ship On The Shore is a must. One of the most romantic spots in the city, this seafood sanctuary specializes in shellfish and champagne. Foodies cannot help but adore the understated elegant vibes and note that each bite is as excellent as the next. Let the bubbles add that extra sparkle and the seafood and fish, which are harvested from sustainable stocks, will take you on an epic culinary adventure.

The Ship On The Shore, 24-26 Shore, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 555 0409

Shellfish | © Unsplash/Pixabay

9. The Witchery

Tours

Without question, The Witchery is perhaps up there with the most famous restaurants in Scotland. For those longing for a date worthy of being imprinted in the mind for all eternity, this is the place to do that. After all, The Witchery is not your average restaurant; situated through a close at the top of the Royal Mile next to the Castle, this world-renowned eatery possesses an addictively charming and weirdly romantic character. The food, which focuses on seasonal Scottish cuisine, is to die for and the atmosphere magnetic. This place is undoubtedly an enchanting and bewitching experience. By Tori Chalmers

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