Best bistros and brasseries in Edinburgh

• Eating and Drinking Guide
• 18 April 2017

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe

Sample some of Edinburgh's best cuisine in bistros across the city

We all have our favourite places that take care of us after a tough day and act as our second home when we want to embrace the ephemeral pleasures of life. Bistros and brasseries – warm, cosy places where you can hide away from the world for a few hours with pals or people-watch from behind a plate of something tasty – form the central nervous system of Edinburgh dining. Combining memorable settings, friendly staff and kitchens that don't limit their ambitions with good value and a sense of ease, here is some of Edinburgh's most enjoyable dining.

Bijou
2 Restalrig Road, Leith, EH6 8BN
A pocket-sized gem among the city's bistros, open for business from breakfast right through to dinner.
bijoubistro.co.uk | read our review of Bijou

The Birchwood
146 Marchmont Road, Southside, EH9 1AQ
Marchmont café with a bright, fresh interior showcasing strong breakfast and brunch choices and an appealing dinner menu.
thebirchwood.co.uk | read our review of The Birchwood

Forage & Chatter
1A Alva Street, New Town, EH2 4PH
West End eatery with hipster hallmarks that delivers on innovation and flavour combinations.
forageandchatter.com | read our review of Forage & Chatter

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe
Caledonian Hotel, Princes Street, West End, EH1 2AB
Swish and fun, a stylish classic brasserie in which to while away the hours.
galvinbrasseriedeluxe.com | read our review of Galvin Brasserie de Luxe

The Outsider
15–16 George IV Bridge, Old Town, EH1 1EE
Classy, confident cooking served in a casual bistro with sharp service.
theoutsiderrestaurant.com | read our review of The Outsider

Salt Café
54–56 Morningside Road, West End, EH10 4BZ
Quirky reclaimed interior packed full of character, where daytime café culture seamlessly stretches into informal evening dining.
facebook.com/SaltCafeMorningside | read our review of Salt Café

Three Birds Restaurant
3-5 Viewforth, Bruntsfield, Southside, EH10 4JD
Deservedly popular, cosy neighbourhood bistro with an inspired menu.
threebirds.co.uk | read our review of Three Birds Restaurant

The Walnut
9 Croall Place, Leith Walk, EH7 4LT
Wonderful things come in small packages at this exciting and cannily priced neighbourhood eatery on Leith Walk.
read our review of The Walnut