Edinburgh’s a good place to eat alone, with lots of great venues to fit your needs.
Some people sense a weird stigma around eating alone, which is rooted in something, but it’s frustrating as it really shouldn’t be there. There’s literally no harm in being somewhere other than your home or hotel if you fancy something to eat.
However, there are some practical considerations. For example, how can you be at your table to show it’s occupied while also ordering at the counter?
This page calls out those reviews for locations that have the solo tag. As a bonus, I started to add that to write-ups in 2022 when venues felt especially suited to eating alone.
Dinner for one in Edinburgh, solo dining, call it what you want, but trust the lived experience of many others; it’s no bad thing.
Latest eating alone reviews
CATA is an authentic Spanish tapas and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, offering a candlelit atmosphere, generous pintxos, and a welcoming environment for both groups and solo diners.
Located near Haymarket station, Flatbread Turkish Bakery House serves authentic Pide and Lahmacun. The venue is clean with a great bakery counter. While portions are light, the Doner flatbread is delicious and the service is fast and friendly.
Read more Review: Flatbread Turkish Bakery House, Haymarket Terrace
A 5-star review of Leith’s Brunswick Book Club. It’s a well-run, casual pub and restaurant with “absolutely fantastic” food. Great for solo diners, groups, and terrace-lovers. A remarkable discovery that’s great value for money.
Read more Review: The Brunswick Book Club, a gastropub on Leith Walk
The Basement is an atmospheric Mexican restaurant on Broughton Street. With its Day of the Dead decor, it’s a perfect date spot. We love the tacos (Taco Tuesday!), drunken beans, and churros. Staff are superb, but it gets busy, so book ahead!
La Casa on Leith Walk is a lively, bright tapas bar perfect for catch-ups. It serves solid Mediterranean classics, from loaded bruschetta to great veggie options. Don’t miss the dessert specials! Service is relaxed. A reliable Leith survivor.
For gourmet burgers, loaded fries and a warm welcome in Edinburgh’s City Centre, Bread Meats Bread on Lothian Road is a must-visit.
Read more Review: Bread Meats Bread, A Burger Classic on Lothian Road
We’ve found a real labour of love in Leith! Sweet October is a humble cafe with a huge heart, offering some of the best sandwiches in Edinburgh. Freshly made, inventive, and delicious – this place is a definite recommended stop.
Landy’s on North Bridge serves up good fish and chips in a sit-down restaurant with a bar. It’s a great city centre choice, especially during busy times when you can grab a drink while you wait for a table. A solid meal in a prime location.
Read more Review: Landy’s, a smart fish & chips restaurant on North Bridge