From a gothic-themed restaurant to a former 19th-century cottage, here are five unusual eateries in Edinburgh that you have to visit before you finish uni.
1. Gardener’s Cottage
Where: 1 Royal Terrace Gardens, London Road, EH7 5DX
Get cosy in this once 19th century home of the Royal Terrace Gardens’ head gardener. This cottage is now a restaurant where you can have a truly unique dining experience. Visit for dinner and you’ll be served a seven-course set seasonal menu as you chat with fellow diners at the long, communal tables. To be perfectly frank, this isn’t a place every student could afford to go to dinner. The set menu costs £50 a head and that’s without drinks. But if you want to go somewhere truly special, this is the place.
2. The Witchery By The Castle
Where: 352 Castlehill, EH1 2NF
If you would like to experience fine dining with theatrical ambience then the Witchery By The Castle is the perfect place. You can sit in the rich baroque surroundings of the original oak-panelled Witchery or among the elegant candle-lit charms of the Secret Garden. The three-course pre- or post-theatre menu is a reasonably priced £27, while the two-course is just £22. If you’re feeling very flush, then you could even stay the night. Suites begin at £345 — maybe it’s time to start saving.
3. Pavilion Cafe
Where: A700, Edinburgh EH9 1
This converted cricket pavilion at the edge of the meadows has a relaxed, hippy vibe with the location ideal on a sunny day for sitting outside. If the more typical Scottish weather hits, it’s great for cosying up inside or just for grabbing a coffee on the go. They have a varied menu that is perfect for those with vegan, gluten- and dairy-free diets!
4. Wedgwood Edinburgh
Where: 267 Canongate, EH8 8BQ
Wedgwood offers the chance to try delights grown naturally right here in Edinburgh. Co-owner and head chef Paul Wedgwood picks the foraged leaves and other wild ingredients himself from various Edinburgh river banks. They say that diners have such a difficult time choosing what they want to eat that they have introduced ‘deciding time’. It consists of a selection canapés accompanied by a glass of champagne. Obviously, for a restaurant of this quality, it’s not cheap. The Wee Tour Of Scotland menu (eight courses) is available fo £50. Yes, most students wouldn’t go here every night of the week but definitely one for special occasions.
5. Mums
Where: 4A Forrest Road, EH1 2QN
Hearty comfort food doesn’t get much better than what is served at this quirky, retro-style dinner. The massive portions of British classics such as sausage and mash and shepherd’s pie are a treat, making this the perfect place for a hungry student!
