Have a feast for the senses at the 7 best restaurants with a view in Edinburgh!
I will never forget the first time my husband took me out on a surprise date. He realized that I enjoyed dining out with beautiful surroundings, so he took me to a restaurant with a view.
There’s just something about those restaurants that makes dinner or lunch dates extra romantic!
So, if you’re planning a date soon, here are my top picks to add some lovely scenery to your meal!
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
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Address: 4th Floor, 33 Castle St
Contact Details: +44 131 634 0023
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 12:00 pm to 12:00 am
Friday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 12:00 am
Pricing: ££
Type of Cuisine: Thai
From the moment I stepped onto Chaophraya Thai Restaurant’s terrace, I was glued to my camera because, honestly, dinner with a view doesn’t get better than this. Overlooking the city skyline, this spot is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
The menu is packed with Thai classics like rich lamb massaman, crispy chicken with cashew nuts, and tamarind roast duck. But don’t overlook the jasmine rice because this fluffy, fragrant, and downright addictive side pairs perfectly with everything on the menu.
Tips:
- The restaurant has a sharing set for 2 people that I think is best for couples on a date. You get a set menu that includes starters, appetisers, entree, and even dessert to finish off the meal.
You have the option to choose from 4 different sets, and you will be charged per person. Check out the full sets here!
- I highly recommend you book a table in advance, especially if you want to sit by the terrace. Tables get filled out quickly, especially during dinner time, so book at least a day or two ahead of your preferred visit date. You can make your reservation here.
The Kitchin
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Address: 78, Commercial Quay, Leith
Contact Details: +44 131 555 1755
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Pricing: £££
Type of Cuisine: Modern Scottish
The Kitchin is one of Edinburgh’s finest dining destinations, renowned for its masterful take on Scottish fusion cuisine. With a Michelin star, the restaurant is praised for its seasonal, expertly crafted dishes, all served in a stunning waterfront setting.
Nestled near the Water of Leith, the restaurant offers diners a front-row seat to nature through its floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you’re looking to experience modern Scottish cuisine at its best, this is a spot worth savouring.
Tips:
- Got dietary restrictions? Just let the staff know. They’re more than happy to adjust dishes to suit your needs, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have food allergies.
- Want to try the best of the menu without over-ordering? Go for the tasting menu. It offers smaller portions of the restaurant’s signature dishes in a full course experience. Just be sure to book at least a week or two in advance to secure your spot.
The Witchery by the Castle
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Address: 352 Castlehill
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Pricing: £££
Type of Cuisine: Modern Scottish
The Witchery by the Castle is a favourite of my sister’s because of its fairytale-like ambience and gothic charm. The restaurant sits right beside the iconic Edinburgh Castle and features rich oak panelling and candlelit tables.
It’s very romantic, and it feels like stepping into another era, especially when you book a table by the terraces which gives you sweeping views from right beside the castle! And if you’re up for a splurge, their luxurious suites are just as magical.
Tips:
- To keep the intimate dining atmosphere, the restaurant only accommodates guests aged 10 and above and limits group size to six or fewer. Plan accordingly and book a table at least a week in advance. You can reserve a table here.
- Accessibility can be a challenge here due to the historic Old Town location where most of the buildings are old and preserved. Keep in mind that there are steps to enter the dining areas of the hotel, which may cause difficulties for anyone using a wheelchair.
Old Chain Pier
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Address: 32 Trinity Cres
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9:30 am to 10:00 pm
Friday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 11:00 pm
Sunday, 9:30 am to 9:00 pm
Pricing: ££
Type of Cuisine: Seafood, Scottish
Sitting on the shores of Newhaven, Old Chain Pier pairs stunning Fifth of Forth views with fresh, seasonal Scottish fare. Whether it’s their legendary fish and chips, a hearty Sunday roast, or a dram of whisky by the fire, this historic pub never disappoints.
I first stumbled in after a windswept coastal walk, lured by the promise of Cullen skink and a pint. The cosy atmosphere, live music on weekends, and a dog-friendly policy make it a local favourite.
Tips:
- This is a family-friendly restaurant, but do note that anyone under the age of 14 years old will only be allowed inside until 8:00 pm.
- I highly recommend coming here using public transportation if you can. Parking is very limited in the area and you might have to walk for a wee bit from the streets to the restaurant if you do find one.
- If you’re hoping to snag a seat outdoors, plan to arrive early. The restaurant operated on a first come, first serve basis for outdoor tables, so there’s no option to book ahead. On sunny days, these spots fill up quickly.
The Boathouse Portobello
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Address: 3 King’s Pl, Portobello Beach
Contact Details: +44 131 563 2694
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday, 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 pm to 12:00 am
Pricing: ££
Type of Cuisine: Seafood, Scottish
If you can’t get enough of seafood, then a trip to The Boathouse over at Portobello Beach should be on your foodie radar. This nautical-themed bar and grill serves up hearty pub grub and wood-fired pizza against the backdrop of the beach.
Who doesn’t love to enjoy hearty and fresh seafood meals and pizza while the sea breeze blows through your hair?
Oh, and did I mention that you can enjoy the views all year long thanks to the covered terrace?
Tips:
- If you’re planning a visit to Old Chain Pier, keep an eye on the clock! The kitchen serves food until 8:30 pm daily, so be sure to get your orders in before then.
The outdoor seating area stays open until 10 pm, making it a great spot for an evening drink with a view.
And if you’re looking for a last round, the bar takes final orders at 10:30 pm—perfect for wrapping up a laid-back night by the water.
- Just a heads-up: you’ll need to grab your own cutlery and napkins from the self-serve station. Napkins are available from the kitchen blue rolls near the cutlery selection, so be sure to pick some up before digging in.
Royal Deck Tearoom
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Address: Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Dr
Contact Details: +44 1315 555 566
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm
Pricing: £££
Type of Cuisine: Scottish Afternoon Tea
If you’re visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia, don’t miss out on the Royal Deck Tearoom, a hidden gem where you can enjoy a bite to eat while soaking up incredible waterfront views. Even the Royal Family couldn’t resist some tea time here on their last visit.
The menu is packed with homemade treats, from hearty soups and sandwiches to freshly baked cakes and scones, all prepared right on board. I once spent an afternoon here with a pot of Earl Grey and a scone, watching the boats drift by on a busy day.
Tips:
- If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that it’s only accessible with a Britannia admission ticket, as it’s part of the tour route. There’s no need to book ahead as seating is on a first come, first served basis. So, if you want to grab a table with the best view, it’s worth timing your visit for a quieter part of the day (early morning).
- The Royal Deck Tea Room is wheelchair and buggy accessible via the original lift from the Royal Bedrooms. If you’re using an electric wheelchair, just let a staff member know and they’ll be happy to assist you.
The Ship on The Shore
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Address: 24-26, Shore, Leith
Contact Details: +44 131 555 0409
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday, 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Pricing: ££
Type of Cuisine: Scottish, seafood
Another seafood paradise for people who love shellfish and great views is The Ship on The Shore. On a rare sunny afternoon, I once enjoyed a long, leisurely lunch on their shorefront terrace, watching the Water of Leith shimmer in the daylight.
But even when the weather turns, their cosy bar makes for the perfect spot to tuck into a hearty seafood feast. Their hot shellfish platter is packed with freshest catches, and I highly recommend you splurge on this fresh feast when you’re there!
Tips:
- If you’re planning to book a table, you can submit a request online or call their hotline to confirm your reservation. For groups of four or more, a £10 per person deposit is required. Just be sure to give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or adjust your group size to avoid losing your reservation.
- Keep in mind that kids under 8 years old aren’t allowed in the restaurant after 6:00 pm. Plan your visit accordingly if you’re bringing along your wee ones!