The Best Delis To Visit In Edinburgh

The overwhelming visual stimuli associated with delicatessens are one of life’s simple pleasures. Nothing beats setting your eyes upon fancy aged meats and cheeses amid perfectly laid out gourmet chocolates and fresh fruits. Delicatessens have been around since the 1700s, when they first sprang up in Germany before spreading to America in the mid 1800s. Interestingly, 1889 was when the word ‘delicatessen’ first appeared in the English language. Since then, the trend of nipping to the deli for fresh food and exclusive produce (whether imported or local) has become ingrained in the foodies of society. And why not? Here, we round up the best delis in Edinburgh.

1. Valvona & Crolla

Valvona & Crolla

Founded in 1934, Valvona & Crolla is the oldest delicatessen and Italian wine merchant in Scotland. The kingpins of Edinburgh’s deli scene, this independent family business favours tradition with a contemporary twist. From a myriad of the most exquisite cheeses to home-baked breads, biscuits, salami, sausages, pasta, and barrels of wine, this foodie haven is a trusty favourite as far as delis go. Every coffee is brewed to perfection, and the selection of olive oils, champagne, and contemporary kitchenware adds that extra touch.

Valvona & Crolla, 19 Elm Row, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 556 6066

Deli counter | © Herry Lawford/Flickr

2. Earthy

Restaurant, European

Earthy is a one-stop shop for all things wholesome and pure. With three locations in Edinburgh — Ratcliffe Terrace, Portobello, and Canonmils — this deli-style store offers the foodie folk of the city a farmer’s market-type shopping experience. From lovely wine and top cheeses to the best selection of fresh veggies, sweet treats, baking goods, oils, deli meat, and eggs, Earthy is a purveyor of all things organic, local, and seasonal. The market café at Ratcliffe Terrace is a dream of tasty food, and the restaurant and deli at Canonmills never fail to hit the spot.

3. I.J. Mellis

Cheesemonger, Coffee Shop, European, Coffee, Tea , Fast Food, Snacks

I.J. Mellis can only be described as a cheese paradise. From Isle of Mull Cheddar and Manchego to Durrus, Roquefort, and more, the never-ending selection of fancy cheeses at this bespoke cheesemonger and provisions merchant is simply sublime. Founder and partner Ian Mellis worked in the British cheese industry for 15 years before setting up shop on Victoria Street in 1993. Since then, multiple shops have matured in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and St Andrews. Avid cheese enthusiasts will recognize the distinctive flavours within the fancy farmhouse cheese. Such tastes are thanks to the milk coming from a single herd, and the expert knowledge of Mellis, of course.

5. Broughton Delicatessen

Broughton Delicatessen

The flavours within Brougthton Delicatessen always ignite the taste buds and satisfy the palette. Serving the best locally sourced organic dishes, this delightful deli is home to a simple café and deli counter. From exceptional daily soup choices and deli baguettes to the daily made tart or tortilla option, salads, crêpes, salami, and coffee, each bite is undeniably the best taste of the day, every time. This deli offers sit-in or take-away options and the vibrant menu is forever evolving with the most epic eats.

Broughton Delicatessen, 7 Barony St, Edinburgh Scotland +44 131 558 7111

6. Herbie Of Edinburgh

Herbie Of Edinburgh

Herbie Of Edinburgh has been around since 1993. Since then, this joy of a culinary closet has been providing the city with a convivial atmosphere and the most sought-after treats from top small artisan producers. One slither of their chicken liver pâté is like medicine for the soul. The great array of breads will always make your day, the Brie de Meaux has a way of leaving a lasting impression, and the wine selection is perfectly picked. This spot is a great place for those with a hankering for that classic deli-style sandwich.

Herbie Of Edinburgh, 66 Raeburn Pl, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 332 9888

Corned beef and pastrami | © Brad Greenlee/Flickr

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