Haggis, neeps and tatties
The national dish: spiced offal and oats served with mashed swede and potato. It is common at lunch and in pubs, and many places offer a vegetarian version.
Edinburgh
What to eat in Edinburgh
- Haggis, neeps and tatties
- Cullen skink
- Scotch pie
- Full Scottish breakfast
Data checked on October 5, 2026
Cullen skink
A thick soup of smoked haddock, potato and onion, served with bread. It is a warm starter on a cold day.
Scotch pie
A small double crust meat pie, eaten hot from a bakery or a stall on the street. It is a cheap and quick lunch.
Full Scottish breakfast
Eggs, bacon, sausage, beans and tomato, with black pudding and a potato scone often included. It sets you up for a day of climbing.
Cranachan
A dessert of whipped cream, toasted oats, raspberries and honey, sometimes with a splash of whisky.
Scotch whisky
Served as a dram, usually with a small jug of water on the side. Many bars list dozens of kinds from different regions, and tastings are held across the Old Town.
Every itinerary on this site keeps a lunch break after 12:30, so there is room for a proper meal in the middle of the day.
What a meal costs
- Meal in an inexpensive restaurant
- £18
- Three courses for two, mid-range restaurant
- £80
- Coffee
- £3.86
Besides the sights
- A folk session in an Old Town pubSeveral pubs host live Scottish folk music on most evenings, with fiddles and singing. Arrive early to find a seat.
- A whisky tastingGuided tastings in the Old Town explain the main regions and let you compare four or five drams. Booking ahead is wise in summer.
- A walk along the Water of LeithA riverside path runs from Dean Village through Stockbridge and on toward Leith, mostly flat and shaded by trees.
- Portobello beachA sandy beach and promenade east of the centre, reached by bus in about 30 minutes, with ice cream in the sun and a swim for the brave.
- The festivals in AugustThe city fills with street shows, theatre and comedy through the month, and the crowds shape every plan. Book rooms well ahead.