The Haggis and I are both massive foodies. I spent two years living in Edinburgh, while The Haggis grew up close to Edinburgh and went to uni there. We love popping into the city to try out new restaurants; here are some of our favourite romantic restaurants in Edinburgh we know all couples will love.
Tip: It’s important you make a booking if you’d like to eat at these restaurants. Due to Covid-19, availability is much more limited! Want to know the current Covid-19 situation in Scotland for travel? Check out my Scotland Covid-19 guide
Romantic restaurants in Edinburgh
1. The Witchery By The Castle
The Haggis and I had afternoon tea at The Witchery By The Castle and- oh my! The food was outstanding, the customer service was outstanding, the atmosphere- outstanding. If you are looking for the most romantic restaurant in Edinburgh, this is it! The afternoon tea experience is also on my romantic things to do in Scotland for couples list. Reservations are required, and you’ll be very lucky to get a table if you walk on in, so make sure you book in advance.
Why we love it: It feels as though you’ve walked into a lord’s dining area during the 17th century. The food and service is exceptional.
Cost: £££
Address: 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF
2. The Voodoo Rooms
Looking for live entertainment, delicious food and cocktails, in an ornate setting? Located in the heart of Edinburgh, The Voodoo Rooms is the perfect restaurant for couples or for a first date you won’t forget. The Dining Room has a unique tiki theme with booth seating, tall arched windows and decorated ceilings. It’s won plenty of awards [too many to list] but take my word for it- you won’t be disappointed in this restaurant. Please note it’s an over 18 venue.
Why we love it: The cool tiki vibe and the live entertainment.
Cost: ££
Address: 19a W Register St, Edinburgh EH2 2AA
New here? Make sure you read my ultimate guide to planning a trip to Scotland
3. White Horse
The White Horse is an oyster bar and one of the best seafood restaurants in Edinburgh. Located on the site of the oldest inn on the Royal Mile, this restaurant sources its seafood from boutique suppliers across Scotland. Induldge in a sharing platter while you sip on wine and cocktails- very classy.
Why we love it: Has some of the best seafood in Edinburgh in a romantic setting.
Cost: ££
Address: The Royal Mile, 266 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AA
>> Read more: The most romantic places in Scotland
4. Chaophraya
Chaophraya is a contemporary Thai restaurant with gorgeous rooftop views of Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth. They also have vegan and gluten free options. The Haggis has been to Chaophraya several times and there’s a reason he keeps going back- the well stocked bar! But I think that maybe the glorious view of Edinburgh Castle has something to do with it…
Why we love it: Great food and cocktails with the incredible backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Cost: ££
Address: 4th Floor, 33 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3DN
5. The Devil’s Advocate
The Devil’s Advocate is a bar and kitchen situated in an old Victorian pump house. It’s tucked away from the Royal Mile in Advocates Close. The dining area is on a mezzanine floor; below it is a swanky bar with 400 whiskies! The menu change monthly and uses seasonal and Scottish ingredients. This is a intimate, upmarket restaurant suited to a special romantic dinner date. Book a table in advance.
Why we love it: The huge whisky collection!
Cost: £££
Address: 9 Advocate’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND
6. Orocco Pier Restaurant
Orocco Pier comes highly recommended by my sister-in-law. The Haggis’s cousin also had her wedding reception here! Orocco Pier has a relaxed cafe for lunch and a restaurant serving meat and seafood dishes with seasonal vegetables, with the beautiful backdrop of the Forth Bridges. The food is delicious, and I couldn’t think of a better view than the Forth Bridges to enjoy a meal and cocktails to!
Why we love it: The view of the Forth Bridges is awe-inspiring.
Cost: ££
Address: 17 High St, South Queensferry EH30 9PP
7. Howies
There are two Howies restaurants in Edinburgh; one on Victoria Street and one on Waterloo Place. I’ve had dinner at the one on Victoria Street, which is one of Edinburgh’s prettiest streets. The menu is traditionally Scottish with food sourced from local suppliers. They also have a large selection of wine, and serve Scottish craft beer as well as Scottish whiskies and gins. Their sticky toffee pudding dessert is ace! If you’re looking for something a little quirky and tradionally Scottish- book a table here.
Cost: ££
Why we love it: Traditionally Scottish and located on one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful streets.
Address: 10-14 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HG
8. Black Ivy
To be honest- any restaurant covered in foliage with a bohemian vibe is my kind of place! Black Ivy is actually a self-described ‘local luxury’ hotel located in Bruntsfield that has a wonderful restaurant for brunch, lunch or dinner. It is especially bonnie at Christmas time when it is covered in Christmas decorations. There’s something for everyone here- come for brunch, cocktails, a meal- or cosy up next to the firepits on the terrace with a beer.
Why we love it: It’s beautifully decorated, has a fair menu selection and is reasonably priced.
Cost: ££
Address: 4 Alvanley Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 1DU
9. Dine
Dine comes highly recommended by my father-in-law. It’s an award-winning brasserie-style venue, serving locally sourced produce from the Scottish Borders and the Highlands. It’s self-described as ‘relaxed luxury’ in a beautifully striking circular atrium. It has won the Best Contemporary British Brasserie in Scotland in 2017, 2018 and 2019!
Why we love it: The tree centerpiece just really does it for me.
Cost: ££
Address: 10 Cambridge St, Edinburgh EH1 2ED
10. Harmonium
Harmonium has got to be the hippest, coolest vegan restaurant in Edinburgh. Located in Leith, it’s well worth the walk [or bus] from the city centre. Their menu is fairly laid back and consists of stone baked pizzas, quarter pounders and delectable desserts. They also have a great range or organic wines, local beers and ales, and seasonal cocktails. The interior is relaxed and is a nod to Leith’s rich history. Harmonium is also dog friendly!
Why we love it: Aside from being eco-friendly, Harmonium proves vegan food can taste better than meat. Also, you can bring your dog to dinner!
Cost: ££
Address: 7-11 E London St, Edinburgh EH7 4BN
11. Six By Nico
If you’re looking for a unique and fun experience, Six By Nico will give you just that! The restaurant is owned by Chef Nico Simeone’s, who designs a new six-course menu every six weeks. Each menu has a different theme – either a place, memory, or idea.
Why we love it: The food is amazing, and this experience is a little different than any other restaurant in Edinburgh. They also have amazing cocktails!
Cost: ££
Address: 97 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
12. Number One at The Balmoral
The Balmoral is one of the most famous hotels in Edinburgh and appears in many images of Edinburgh’s skyline. It’s also the hotel where JK Rowling completed her final novel in the Harry Potter series. Aside from its fame, the restaurant is absolutely gorgeous and is a Michelin star restaurant. This restaurant caters to everyone and has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Why we love it: Everything about this restaurant is excellent – the service, the food, the decor – all spectacular. A real treat for a special anniversary – or a proposal!
Cost: ££££
Address: 1 Princes Street The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
