City Of Edinburgh, Fish & Seafood Restaurant Guide

This “pretty little fish restaurant tucked away overlooking the expanse of the Meadows in south Edinburgh” has won widespread praise for its “deft and delicious cooking”. Chef-patron Phil White and his FOH partner Rachel Chisholm followed up by opening all-day spot Margot a few doors away in March 2024 – hailed by critic Chitra Ramaswamy of The Times as ‘the hippest café in the city’. Top Menu Tip – “the stand-out octopus”.

“You won’t go wrong” at this “always-reliable fish restaurant in the heart of the New Town”, with “large windows, an open-plan layout, small bar, warm and efficient service, and skilled kitchen, all at a reasonable price”. Top Menu Tips – “Tempura King Prawns, Halibut in Parsley Sauce, good curried fish, fishcakes and creme brûlée”.

“Prime cuts of matured beef served in striking surroundings with a carefully curated wine list, which includes some rarities albeit at a premium price” wins similarly enthusiastic feedback for this Scots outpost of the famous chain, which inhabits the former National Bank of Scotland’s Banking Hall – the elegant main public space of this Grade A listed building. Those familiar with the brand accept the fact that it’s “somewhat expensive” is the trade-off you accept to partake of the experience. Top Tip – for value seekers, the Monday Wine Club does offer BYOB for £5 corkage.

2024 Review: With its imposing facade, stained glass, corniced ceilings, polished wood and brass, we maintain a listing for this busy Victorian institution (est. 1863 and nowadays run by the Metropolitan Pub Company) as much as a cultural experience as it is a culinary one. Seafood dishes and platters are the best choices here.

This two-year-old in the New Town from Dean Banks of the nearby Pompadour – “a chef who puts thought and local produce into the menu” – comprises a first-floor fish and seafood restaurant above a wine and cocktail bar. The “well-cooked and presented fish and seafood” would have attracted higher ratings but for one or two up-and-down experiences. Top Menu Tip – “the Arbroath smokie tart with seaweed crumpet was particularly good”.