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
Review: Fresh burritos for days – Barburrito, Forrest Road
Girdy and Birdy have been enjoying Barburrito’s namesake burritos, and new menu. Barburrito on Forrest Road has become a semi-regular haunt – and were an absolute lifesaver during Fringe!
Read more Review: Fresh burritos for days – Barburrito, Forrest Road
Girdy & Birdy Review: NAM, Haymarket Terrace
NAM is a fab almost hidden gem of a Vietnamese restaurant, although clearly quite popular with locals – we can see why! And, if you don’t fancy going out, you can also order delivery from many of the usual suspects.
Review: Kafeneion to Steki, Leith
Kafeneion to Steki is a great little taverna if you’re looking for authentic Greek food – or just drinks, as the ‘taverna’ style is promoted by owners Joanna and Alexandra – in a relaxed atmosphere.
Review: Harbour Bistro, Newhaven
Newhaven’s Harbour Bistro has impressed everyone I know who knows about this discreet gem. The food here is Master Chef quality, at least the highest tier I can imagine, and incredibly reasonably priced. I absolutely recommend the friendly vibe, the trip to Edinburgh’s waterfront and time in the charming restaurant.
A review of Ice Angels, an ice cream parlour in Canonmills
A family-run treat for the sugar senses! There’s a fantastic range of tasty ice cream here, with an impressive number of cone options. It’s the sundaes, the waffles, the crepes and even the chocolate or fruit kebabs that help make Ice Angels a proper destination, though and a place worth travelling to. Go, go, go!
Read more A review of Ice Angels, an ice cream parlour in Canonmills
A review of the Urban Jungle Brunch Room by Seb’s Urban Jungle on Leith Walk
A friendly cafe and plant shop, what a great combination, and an oasis of green near the urban throb of the foot of Leith Walk. It’s one I recommend.
Read more A review of the Urban Jungle Brunch Room by Seb’s Urban Jungle on Leith Walk
A review of Chums, a takeaway in Leith
Chums is a warm and friendly coffee and/or pie shop in Leith; it’s around the corner from the beaten track but worth exploring to find. It’s not had to see. Only a few minutes before that meeting? Chums will help.
A review of Faceplant Foods, a vegan sandwich shop in Leith
A vegan sandwich boutique that offers crafted perfection at a fair price, with baking, coffee and sometimes amazing treats like vegan dogs. One to check out.
Read more A review of Faceplant Foods, a vegan sandwich shop in Leith