Review: Landy’s, a smart fish & chips restaurant on North Bridge

I’ve been to Landy’s Fish and Chips on North Bridge several times, but always late at night and always when Edinburgh was heaving with people. It’s a prime spot, just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile, and it seems to have quickly become a go-to for those seeking a proper meal amidst the city centre chaos.

My first impression has always been of a place that knows how to handle a crowd. It looks like a classic, clean chippy from the front, but the real masterstroke is the small, licensed bar area at the back. It’s a game-changer.

The Venue and Bar

On every visit, particularly during the festival, the ability to wait for a table with a drink in hand has been an absolute godsend. When the staff tell you a table will be free in a few minutes, they don’t leave you hovering by the door. Instead, you’re ushered through to the bar to order a pint or a glass of wine.

This simple feature transforms the experience from a frustrating wait into a pleasant pause. You can lean against the bar or find a stool, take a much-needed sip, and watch the efficient and friendly staff work their magic. For a venue that can get as busy as this, the service is impressively smooth.

This thoughtful setup makes Landy’s more than just a chippy; it turns it into a proper restaurant experience. It’s a top tip for anyone wanting a sit-down meal with alcohol and classic fish and chips, a combination that can be surprisingly hard to find.

The Fish and Chips

Now, for the main event. The fish and chips are good; they’re certainly good enough to satisfy a craving when you’re in the centre of town. The batter is crisp, the fish is flaky, and the chips are proper chippy chips. Ask for mushy peas, and you’ll get loads!

Let’s be honest, the competition for the best fish and chips in Edinburgh is fierce. I’m from Granton, a short hop from the fantastic chippies in Newhaven and the Leith powerhouse that is Pierino’s. I don’t think Landy’s quite reaches those heights, but it doesn’t need to.

Landy’s has done a fantastic job of bringing quality fish and chips right to the heart of the city. If I were on the Royal Mile or Meadows and fancied a fish supper, I wouldn’t walk 30 minutes past Landy’s to get one elsewhere, I’d head to Landy’s. It’s the ideal spot for a reliable, satisfying meal before you carry on with your night.

Things to do in the City Centre

Landy’s is perfectly located on North Bridge, putting you at the epicentre of Edinburgh’s attractions. You are just moments away from the historic Royal Mile, with Edinburgh Castle at one end and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. For a spooky thrill, The Edinburgh Dungeon is just around the corner.

Shopping is plentiful, with the new St James Quarter and the traditional Princes Street stores within a five-minute walk. If you’re arriving by train, Edinburgh Waverley is directly below North Bridge, and for those flying in, transport from Edinburgh Airport is frequent. If you need a place to leave your bags, services like Radical Storage have numerous drop-off points nearby.

For an evening’s entertainment, the Edinburgh Playhouse is a short walk away, offering major touring productions. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, there are countless options available on sites like Expedia.

Overall

Landy’s is a superb and much-needed addition to the city centre. It successfully bridges the gap between a takeaway chippy and a sit-down restaurant. The food is solid, the staff are great, and the addition of a bar for waiting customers is a winning formula. I suspect it will go from strength to strength. Overall, a definite thumbs up.