Edinburgh and the Lothians Restaurant Guide

Norwood Hall Hotel was built in 1881 on the site of the 15th century Pitfodels Castle. This truly magnificent Victorian mansion exudes character and charm, with roaring log fires, sweeping staircases and magnificent interior design. Set in seven acres of secluded gardens and woodlands this four star hotel and conference centre is the ideal venue to host your business meeting, team away day, wedding or family gathering. The Tapestry Restaurant takes great pride in its menu and wine list.

Norwood Hall, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

A lively young crowd and five bars and a club make the restaurant at Aberdeen's Tiger Tiger an ideal choice for a night out. The welcoming dining room with its retro leather seating and bright airy décor buzzes with a sociable, unstuffy vibe, while the straightforward menu features staples such as steaks, salads and burgers alongside more adventurous fusion dishes.

1-2 Shiprow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: International

The country cousin of Duck's at Le Marche Noir in Edinburgh (now open only for private functions), this restaurant is housed in the extensively re-vamped Kilspindie Hotel, some 20 minutes' drive from the city centre. Light bistro-style meals are served in the bar, but most attention focuses on the upbeat modern food offered in the cosy dining room. Scottish produce is the jumping off point for a menu of vivid dishes with a strong French and Mediterranean bias.

Kilspindie House Hotel, Aberlady, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Modern Scottish

K2 is an invitingly contemporary Indian restaurant in the West Lothian town of Bathgate. Authentic Punjabi-style cuisine is the focus of the menu, served up in a bright, modern interior of blond woods and blue walls. A buffet is served seven nights a week, popular for parties and group outings, and there are family-friendly discounts for children.

28A Glasgow Road, Bathgate, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

Following a stunning transformation, Edinburgh's landmark Rutland Hotel re-opened in 2008 and has quickly scooped a handful of prestigious awards - including 'Best New Scottish Hotel' in the Scottish Hotel Awards. Once the home of pioneering Victorian surgeon Sir Joseph Lister, it stands in a prime spot and now operates a chic boutique hotel. The Restaurant at the Rutland ('Most Exciting New Restaurant 2009') has superb views over the city skyline and oozes opulence with its contemporary black and stone furniture, mirrored pillars and rich red colours.

The Rutland Hotel, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Modern Scottish

A groovy new venture in the classic Grade-II listed George Hotel on Edinburgh's most chic street (postcode EH2), Tempus is an all-day venue that pulls in the city's fashionistas and socialites with its elegant and in-vogue lounge bar and its cool brasserie-style restaurant. Exotic cocktails, fizz and refreshing beers provide the accompaniment to chat and socialising, after shopping or work (or before a night on the town).

25 George Street, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Modern British

The city sibling of Fishers in Leith occupies premises right at the heart of Edinburgh's social scene, and is run along similar lines to its elder brother. It's relaxed and casual: there are no tablecloths or side plates on the tables, photographs cover the deep-ochre walls, and the menu is bolstered by blackboard specials reflecting the market.

58 Thistle Street, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Seafood

Following a sojourn in Dundas Street, Haldanes recently moved back to its original home in the basement of the elegant Albany Hotel. Prime Scottish produce still forms the backbone of an unchanged modern menu, which might open with baked filo of haggis served with mustard mash and whisky sauce or warm salad of wild rabbit, sweetbreads and green beans with truffle dressing.

39a Albany Street, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Modern Scottish

Currently one of the hottest - and coolest - boutique hotels in Edinburgh, Tigerlily is much more than a place to stay: it's also a hip bar and dining destination both day and night. Set in a converted Georgian townhouse right in the heart of the city's most fashionable shopping district, it attracts a groovy crowd, who come for sleepovers, short breaks and trendy weekends away.

125 George Street, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Eclectic

Edinburgh's glitzy shopping thoroughfare built around Harvey Nichols makes a suitably fashionable setting for the Contini family's new deli/caffè bar. Like the legendary original on Elm Row, this is a phenomenally successful, engaging enterprise: expect long queues outside the glass-fronted building, especially at lunchtime. Snacks, drinks and takeaways are available on the ground floor; otherwise go upstairs to the light airy restaurant, which boasts big windows, mirrored walls, mosaic pillars and bags of animated atmosphere.

11 Multrees Walk, City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

Tucked away in Edinburgh's New Town, 9 Cellars comprises a labyrinthine complex of nine subterranean cellars and an airy restaurant at ground level. The cellars offer intimate nooks for romantic meals, with a well-stocked bar and snack menu, while the more formal dining room upstairs serves tasty, well-executed regional Indian cooking in warm, colourful surroundings.

1-3 York Place, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

Set in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Grassmarket Agua is a stylish restaurant with a strong emphasis on Scotland's famous seafood. Choose from dishes like Cullen Skink with Smoked Peterhead Haddock (£5. 50), Seared Caledonian Scallops (£12. 90) or the Agua Platter from its Crustacean Menu with Oban oysters, clams, Shetland mussels and local crab (£18).

61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Fish & Shellfish

Casually Castilian Barioja is a spin-off from neighbouring Edinburgh success story Igg's, and the two have proved a popular partnership. The striking chrome and black interior is perfectly suited to the mouthwatering array of authentic tapas served up in the restaurant or at the lively bar. The clever dishes use fresh Scottish ingredients, with ingredients like cheese, anchovies, spices and chorizo sausage from Spain, to create a piquant and inventive selection of tapas and paella, made to order.

19 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Spanish

Renowned for the best late night parties in Edinburgh, Belushi's bar is situated seconds from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Belushi's in Edinburgh gives you a welcome warmer than a polyester kilt in Magaluf, with great whisky and the best location to boot. Skip the culture for a night, grab a pint, order your favourite snacks and kick back.

9 - 13 Market Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: International

Lively Bisque is an all-day, all-week family-friendly bar and brasserie with an AA Rosette in the Bruntsfield area of south-west Edinburgh. The informal restaurant offers a menu of seasonal Scottish cooking, featuring local produce such as Ayrshire bacon, smoked salmon and Aberdeen Angus beef to name but a few, along with sandwiches and lighter snacks throughout the day.

69 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

From its location in a former whisky bond close to the waterfront at Leith, Britannia Spice has been attracting Edinburgh's diners to its multi-ethnic blend of exotic eastern cooking since 2000. Drawing on the traditional cuisine of India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Nepal, the critically acclaimed dishes are served in a nautically-inspired interior with an airy yet intimate ambience.

150 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

With a combination of delicious food, great wines and a real ambience, Café Rouge has embodied the style and je ne sais quoi of French dining since it opened way back in 1989. Now with over 90 sites across the country it's just the place to mull over the morning papers with a cafe au lait and a croissant, pop in for a spot of lunch, share a post-work drink or relax over an evening meal. The menu covers a range of French classics from croques and baguettes, ideal for a quick and easy snack, to more substantial fare such as steak frites and boeuf bourguignon.

43 Frederick Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: French

Offering stunning views overlooking Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, the Caledonian Hilton Hotel is a beautiful venue for enjoying delicious traditional Scottish cuisine, alongside a range of international dishes. Dating back to 1914, when it was a part of the original Princes Street station, the restaurant serves splendid meals to enjoy in a setting that is as elegant as it is historic.

Princes Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: British

Elliot's combines the traditional listed features of this magnificent historic building with contemporary design. The dining room has a great sense of style with an ornate corniced ceiling, original fireplaces and expansive Georgian windows flooding the dining room with natural light. Offering an array of modern Scottish dishes prepared with locally sourced seasonal ingredients wherever possible, John Brandon takes great pride in ensuring that all his dishes are hearty and tasty.

23 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Hadrian's Brassiere nestles in the heart of the opulent 5 star Blamoral Hotel in Edinburgh, its Art Deco inspired interior of walnut floors, lime and soft heather coloured walls giving it an informal relaxing ambience. The modern European menu has Scottish ingredients like Loch Fyne Oysters (£19) other A la Carte starters include Parfait of Foie Gras and Chicken Livers (£7. 25).

1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: International

Set in the heart of Edinburgh is Hanam's Kurdish and Middle Eastern Restaurant and if you think that's a mouthful, wait until you see what on offer! Voted one of Britain's Top 5 Middle Eastern Restaurants by the Telegraph, owner Ahmed ensures the personal touch, by being there seven days a week to offer advice and banter.

3 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Persian

Two AA rosettes and a stunning backdrop to the drum tower of Edinburgh Castle make the Heights a fine dining experience to savour. Perched atop the Apex International hotel, the clean lines of the restaurant, finished in marble, wood and glass, don't attempt to compete with the setting. The cuisine is unabashedly local, with hearty dishes such as fillet of Inverurie beef with red onion and shallot confit.

31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Ignacio 'Iggy' Campos established Iggs Restaurante in 1989. Twenty years on the kitchen team continue to evolve their modern Spanish cuisine using the finest ingredients imported directly from Spain alongside the best of local, seasonal Scottish produce. It's no surprise that Iggs has held the coveted AA Rosette Award for many years now. Vibrant and lively during the day, with lovely views to the north of the city through the large front windows, Iggs becomes warmer and more intimate in the evening.

15-19 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Nestled in Edinburgh's Leith Walk La Favorita is a log-fired pizza and gourmet pasta restaurant with a cracking Italian wine list. Starters include various bruschettas including Bruchetta Tartufata, topped with wild mushrooms and melted taleggio cheese drizzled with truffle oil (£4. 95). Mains include Girello Di Mozzarella, a Swiss roll dish of fresh mozzarella filled with parma ham and pesto (£7. 50) and Arancini di Riso alla Siciliana, rice balls filled with mincemeat and mozzarella (£6. 75).

325 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

Close to the Royal Mile, La Garrigue is a low-key yet chic French restaurant in the buzzing heart of Edinburgh city centre. Smart hyacinth and white-panelled walls strike a stylishly understated tone, with simple wooden seating and bright windows offering views over Carlton Hill. Cuisine is similarly deceptively rustic, specialising in signature dishes from the rural Languedoc region of southern France heartened by deft modern cooking.

31 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: French

Serving the finest homemade Indian cuisine prepared by talented specialist chefs, Manna Mahal Restaurant is a superb choice for Edinburgh diners looking to enjoy delicious South Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Using fresh produce and seasonal ingredients of the highest quality, each authentic dish is cooked with aromatic spices to release the rich exotic flavours that Indian and Pakistani food is renowned for.

113 Buccleuch Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

Centrally located in Edinburgh's Apex European Hotel, Metro West End is a relaxed brasserie popular with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is friendly and welcoming, with warm red and black accents creating a chic modern ambience. Food is a fresh and uncomplicated blend of Scottish and European influences, with dishes such as cushion of Highland venison with sweet red cabbage and red wine jus.

90 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

With its wholesome menu of south Indian specialities, Mezbaan offers a taste of the masala dosas and fish curries that define the region's cooking. Smart black-and-white tiled flooring and gentle candlelight give the restaurant a bright, stylish air, while the aromatic dishes on offer include spicy Andhra lamb curry with coconut and mustard seeds, and chicken in red chilli seeds with a toddy wine and white vinegar marinade.

14 - 14A Brougham Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

Set beneath a magnificent clock tower, The Balmoral Hotel is an elegantly cosmopolitan five-star hotel in the heart of Edinburgh's bustling Princes Street. Number One restaurant offers a refined dining experience, with a Michelin-starred menu that emphasises local produce in a creative display of Scottish cooking. Plush curved booths and well-spaced tables offer discretion and intimacy in understated and upmarket surroundings.

The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Serving irresistible Italian cuisine in casual, friendly surroundings, Prezzo uses only the finest seasonal ingredients to create their award-winning pizzas, as well as other dishes prepared with produce sourced directly from Italy, all at prices that emphasise great value for money. Situated in prime and appealing settings throughout London and the U. K, Prezzo's chic, contemporary restaurant are often housed within historic buildings or buildings of local interest.

25 Pier Place, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

Situated in the Prestonfield Hotel and set in 20 acres of parkland, Rhubarb has an opulent and theatrical interior design and a fine line of modern Scottish food. A kilted porter will escort you to one of Rhubarb's two regency dining rooms decorated with giant chandeliers, silk wall coverings and ancestral portraits to partake in the exquisite food and choose from a selection of more than 500 wines.

Priestfield Road, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

The convivial Sampans restaurant within Edinburgh's Holiday Inn is a smart and inviting space with a straightforward menu of Oriental favourites. Pale woods and zingy walls give the restaurant a modern, uncluttered feel, with an airy glass frontage that offer far-reaching views towards the Pentland Hills. Food ranges through spicy pan-Asian flavours, with Thai and Malaysian dishes accompanying the Chinese standards.

Holiday Inn, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Pan-Asian

Shamoli specialises in food from North India and Thailand - perfect for groups who are split in what kind of Asian food they would like. There are a range of Thai stir fies and also Thai curries including Chicken Panang a dish which combines coconut sweetness with with a few sparks provided by red chillis.

105 High Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Thai

The Bollinger Bar at Palm Court - Scotland's only Bollinger Bar - is the ultimate Champagne Bar and a hot-spot for guests and Edinburgh locals alike. The Bollinger Bar is known for offering guests a sample of the finer things in life, from an extensive range of single malt whiskies and vintage champagne to innovative cocktails, including a range of non-alcoholic cocktails. Experience the brand new Balmoral Afternoon Tea, now with 20 exclusive loose-leaf teas to choose from.

Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: International

In a stylish location on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile, The Bridge is a well-established restaurant and bar in the cosmopolitan Carlton Hotel. A host of brasserie dishes fill the menu, from old favourites such as beer-battered haddock and chunky chips to more sophisticated creations given a local twist, like roulade of chicken filled with haggis and a whisky cream sauce.

19 North Bridge, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: International

Presenting stunning high level views over West Bow and the Old Town of Edinburgh, The Castle Arms boasts a range of flexible dining and drinking spaces. Inside you will find an attractive bar that stretches right through to the windows of the slightly raised area at the rear. There is also a terrace used for outdoor seating in summer, which can be accessed from a small upstairs bar. A wide selection of traditional British and Scottish favourites is available on the menu for you to enjoy, including Real Ale Hand Battered Fish and Chips, 8oz Aberdeen Angus Sirloin Steak and Haggis, Neeps and Tatties.

6 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: British

An elegant, spacious lounge bar, The Exchange at the Sheraton Edinburgh Hotel is as welcoming for afternoon tea as it is for a wee dram in the wee small hours. The Exchange has a special place in the heart of many guests - and they all love it for different reasons.

1 Festive Square, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: European

With sweeping views over the water at Leith, The Raj on the Shore is a vibrant, popular restaurant at the heart of Edinburgh's historic seaport. An eclectic menu offers the latest in Indian and Bangladeshi culinary trends, alongside well-loved subcontinental classics. Dishes also feature from the owner's annual International Indian Chef of the Year competition, all presented against a diverse backdrop of British flags, soldier figures and other Raj memorabilia.

87-91 Henderson Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

In the charmingly old world setting of the Dunstane House Hotel, The Skerries is a handsome seafood restaurant with a punchy menu that draws on the Orkney origins of the owner. Situated west of Haymarket, this Edinburgh mainstay is decorated in formal Victorian style, with beautiful windows overlooking the gardens.

4 West Coates, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Fish & Shellfish

Situated within the renowned Prestonfield hotel in Edinburgh, this circular pavilion, constructed within Prestonfield's original Georgian stable-block, boasts its own dedicated kitchens under the personal supervision of Chef Gavin Elder. Benefitting from state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems as well as fully flexible modular staging, the kitchen team in The Stables strives to interpret each client's individual requirements, and deliver what is now widely recognised as the finest banqueting food in Scotland.

Priestfield Road, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Perched above the sandstone-clad landmark Museum of Scotland, spectacular views of Edinburgh's Castle and city skyline feature on the menu of James Thomson's stunning rooftop restaurant. Sleek and stylish, the Tower is designed to impress and has become a must-see for A-list celebrities and visitors to Scotland, as well as its loyal local clientele.

Chambers Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Located in a historic 16th century building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, James Thomson's Witchery is the most atmospheric and spectacular dining destination in the city. A unique setting, stunning interiors and superlative food, wine and service combine to create memorable dining experiences for locals, visitors and celebrities alike.

352 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Vittoria On The Walk is one of Edinburgh's best-known Italian restaurants. Although the building is over sixty years old, it has been decorated in a modern and fashionable style, using traditional Italian colours to create a trattoria-style diner. The award-winning restaurant serves classic Italian dishes, including an astonishing array of freshly-prepared pizzas, sea bass cooked in white wine, steak cooked with porcini and gorgonzola and an extensive range of pasta dishes.

113 Brunswick Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

Behind its striking deep green entrance, Wee Windaes is a spacious family-run Scottish restaurant in the traditional mould with views over the historic Royal Mile. The classic elegance of the dining room with its tartan chairs and well-spaced tables generates an atmosphere of genteel reserve, while the gutsy menu features well-known favourites such as Highland venison, Scottish salmon, cuts of Aberdeen Angus beef and haggis, neeps and tatties.

144 Hight Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Established in 1766, Whigham's is an old Georgian cellar below Edinburgh's teeming streets with a punchy line in Scottish cooking. Diners can snuggle up in a candlelit alcove in the brick wine vault, or bask in the sunshine in the bright airy restaurant. The grown-up ambience (children are not allowed) attracts smart business types and romantic couples in equal measure.

13 Hope Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

Zizzi Italian restaurant at Edinburgh Quay is a real gem in the city, only a 20-minute walk from Princes Street with views overlooking the Union Canal in the heart of the newly developed business district. Zizzi Italian restaurant is perfect for lunch or dinner, within a timeframe or at your leisure.

Edinburgh Quay, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

Located in the West End of Edinburgh at the end of Princes Street and close to the elegant George Street, Zizzi Italian restaurant on Queensferry Street is within easy access of all of the city's main attractions. This restaurant is perfect for an intimate meal for two, business lunch or a family meal before the theatre, a destination for the evening, a starting or finishing point for the night.

42-45 Queensferry Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

An Italian-style cafe and restaurant, Zucca is ideally situated in the theatre district of Edinburgh City Centre. Being located just next door to the Lyceum Theatre, Zucca is perfect for pre or post-theatre dining. Combining the highest level of service with a great deal of passion, the staff aim to serve only the freshest and finest Italian dishes, each complemented with a good quality wine and available at a reasonable price.

15-17 Grindlay Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Italian

The romantic four-star Maitlandfield House hotel in the ancient town of Haddington is an ideal backdrop for the creative menu of Scottish-flavoured cuisine on offer in its mellow, welcoming brasserie. This delightful restaurant makes use of plentiful local produce from East Lothian fields and waters, complemented by a selective list of wines from around the world.

24 Sidegate, Haddington, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Scottish

A one-time pub on the Leith waterfront at the base of the old signal tower, Fishers comprises a dark bustling bar and a lighter, more subdued restaurant overlooking the shore. For the last 20 years, seafood has been the main business here. Lovers of unadorned fish dishes might plump for a bowl of piscine soup, a chilled seafood platter or hot-smoked salmon Caesar salad.

1 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Seafood

The first Ashoka Shak opened in 2001. Since then, the concept has been completely refined with a sassy new design. The Ashoka Shak came to Livingston in December 2002 at the McArthurGlen Retail Outlet, to spice up the lives of the curry lovers in Livingston. Why not try the Grand Buffet and give yourself a delicious treat? The mention of Ashoka conjures up images of Indian cuisine at its best.

McArthur Glen Retail Park, Livingston, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: Indian

The award-winning Duddingston Arms pub has been offering dining and an olde world charm to all visitors since 1867. Only 2 km west of South Queensferry on the A904 Bo'ness Road, this small local pub has a bar and a restaurant lounge area where meals are served. This lounge is especially popular with the locals, featuring a genuine cosy fire and old stone walls, and it is also ideal for family meals with your own dining area seating up to 14 people.

13 - 15 Main Street, Nr South Queensferry, Edinburgh and the Lothians - Cuisine: British