Best Grassmarket Restaurants in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s much-loved Grassmarket area isn’t just a historic, incredibly photogenic corner of the city; it’s among the best spots in town for dining experiences. While you’ll likely want to sample some authentic Scottish fare while you’re there, plenty of Grassmarket restaurants specialize in international flavors if you’re craving something a little different.

The Grassmarket is almost always a feature on my Edinburgh food tours, as the combination of tasty bites, the lively atmosphere, and striking architecture encapsulate what this city is all about. In this article, I’ll run you through my favorite Grassmarket restaurants, including swanky eaters, casual dining spots, and cozy cafes!

Why Grassmarket is a Great Dining Destination

Edinburgh’s Grassmarket area is a must-visit for dozens of reasons, but the wealth of culinary options is definitely at the top of the list! Its variety of cuisines has always been a big draw for me, as you’ll find old-school pubs and bars serving haggis and Cullen skink alongside Italian eateries and buzzing tapas joints, with something for every price point.

Not only that, but the area itself is among the city’s most historic, culturally significant corners. The fabled Edinburgh Castle overlooks the picture-perfect, cobbled streets, meaning you’ll enjoy your meal in the most charming setting.

Although spots like this are often tourist hubs, the vibrant Grassmarket remains popular among locals and students from the nearby university.

Top Restaurants in Grassmarket, Edinburgh

The White Hart Inn

Photo credit: The White Hart Inn

The White Hart Inn felt like the perfect Grassmarket restaurant to start this list with, as it’s said to be the oldest establishment of its kind in the city. Located in Grassmarket Square, this pub is believed by many to be haunted, but the no-frills wooden decor and live music made it feel anything but on the evening I got here.

It seemed rude to try anything but the haggis with neeps and tatties, which (to us non-Scottish folk!) is a mix of creamy mashed potatoes and earthy swede. These comforting sides were exquisite with the savory flavors of the crumbly haggis.

The White Hart Inn – Edinburgh EH1 2JU – Open every Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am and every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am.

The Mussel and Steak Bar

I came across The Mussel and Steak Bar at the bottom of the stunning Victoria Street around lunchtime, and this classy teal-toned spot seemed like an ideal place to sample some Scottish seafood.

One of their daily specials was fresh lobster steamed with chili butter, which I couldn’t wait to try. Just as I’d hoped, the flesh was succulent with a touch of sweetness that fused with the chili’s gentle heat.

The Mussel and Steak Bar – Edinburgh EH1 2HH – Open every day from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Petit Paris

Photo credit: Petit Paris

I didn’t expect to indulge in French cuisine while I was in Edinburgh, but that was before I found Petit Paris in Grassmarket Square. Because the sun was out, and there was plenty of space outside in the early afternoon, I pulled up a chair at one of the cute checkered tables.

The super helpful staff suggested I try the coq au vin, and I have to admit, it was up there with some of the versions I’ve tried in France! To my delight, the chicken was soft and juicy, while the smokey flavors of the bacon-imbued red wine sauce were so rich and fragrant.

Petit Paris – Edinburgh EH1 2JU – Open every Monday to Friday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm and every Saturday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Makars Mash Bar

Photo credit: Makars Mash Bar

Makars Mash Bar near the Writers’ Museum was one of the Grassmarket restaurants that I’d heard all about before I ever visited Edinburgh. This place is always busy, but luckily, there’s a section of this stone-clad eatery reserved for walk-ins.

I knew these guys specialized in mashed potato-based dishes, but I had no idea how varied the menu would be. After learning the lamb shank was their best-seller, my mind was made up. The gamey flavors were enhanced by the notes of rosemary, red wine, and garlic, all of which complemented the incredibly indulgent mashed potatoes.

Makars Mash Bar – Edinburgh EH1 2PA – Open every Monday to Thursday from 12:00 pm to 8:15 pm, Friday from 12:00 pm to 9:15 pm, and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 7:45 pm.

Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips

Photo credit: Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips

Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips on Victoria Street is a must-visit Grassmarket restaurant if you’re hoping to feast on some hearty seafood classics like fish and chips. This bustling split-level joint has a ton of space, meaning I didn’t have to wait for a table despite how busy it was in the evening.

Their much-loved battered haddock was an easy choice for me, and I teamed it with a refreshing pint of Tennent’s Lager. I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening in Scotland than sipping on a crisp beer while tucking into a tender chunk of fish with crunchy batter and chunky fries.

Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips – Edinburgh EH1 2HE – Open every day from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Tips for Dining in Grassmarket

If you’re heading to any of the Grassmarket restaurants at the weekend, it’s best to make a reservation a few days in advance.
The restaurants in the Grassmarket area are ideal for those hoping to try some local specialties like haggis, fish and chips, or Scotch pies.
When the sun comes out, enjoy dining with a view at one of the eateries with outdoor seating.
No trip to the Grassmarket is complete without sampling some Scotch whisky, which is available in pretty much every other bar and restaurant in the area.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Dine in Grassmarket

Foodies are sure to fall in love with the superb lineup of Grassmarket restaurants, no matter what type of cuisine you’ve been craving. If you’re anything like me, one visit here simply won’t be enough!

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Edinburgh food tours & experiences. Eating Europe. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/edinburgh/

Belhaven Pubs. (n.d.). White Hart Inn – Edinburgh. Belhaven Pubs. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/edinburgh/white-hart

Mussel & Steak Bar. (n.d.). Mussel & Steak Bar – Edinburgh. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.musselandsteakbar.com/

Petit Paris. (n.d.). Petit Paris – French restaurant in Edinburgh. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from http://www.petitparis-restaurant.co.uk/

Makar’s Mash Bar. (n.d.). Makar’s Mash Bar – Edinburgh’s comfort food restaurant. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://makarsmash.com/

Bertie’s Fish & Chips. (n.d.). Bertie’s Fish & Chips – Edinburgh. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.bertiesfishandchips.com/#home