Fringe Bites: The Best Places to Eat (Well) near Edinburgh’s Festival Hotspots
Dashing between shows? Post-gig and peckish? Here’s where to refuel in style — from seaside nostalgia and stylish seafood to hidden wine gems and live music dinners.
Edinburgh is about to come alive with the phenomenons that are the Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe. Perhaps you’ve been booking up your favourite comedians’ shows or your planning a little culture vulture action, taking in a play or an orchestral must. Whatever your plans come August one must eat when attending the festival city. These must-visit Edinburgh restaurants are big on flavour, Fringe-friendly, and never far from the fun.
Landy’s Fish and Chips
29-31 North Bridge
Closest to: Royal Mile
Retro vibes, seaside nostalgia and arguably the best fish and chips in town. Landy’s is a crowd-pleaser, serving golden, crispy classics with a side of Scottish charm. Booth seating and a retro diner interior make this a warm and unfussy stop just moments from the Mile.
Vittoria on the Bridge
19 George IV Bridge
Closest to: George Square & Underbelly Bristo Square
Classic Italian done right. Think big bowls of pasta, pillowy pizza, and prosecco to match. Warm, welcoming and ideal for a group dinner before a late-night show — or an impromptu family meal that doesn’t feel rushed.
Divino Enoteca
5 Merchant Street
Closest to: Grassmarket & Cowgate
Tucked beneath George IV Bridge, this chic little wine bar is your escape from the crowds. Cosy stone interiors, colourful terrace seating and the dreamiest Italian food await. Don’t miss the Enomatic wine machine for a pour-at-your-pace tasting.
Dean Banks at The Pompadour
The Caledonian Hotel, Princes Street
Closest to: Ghillie Dhu, Festival Square & Traverse Theatre
Got time to indulge? This is the treat-yourself spot. Award-winning chef Dean Banks delivers a tasting menu that’s as stunning as the view over Edinburgh Castle. Luxe, seasonal, and worth every bite.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh
20 George Street
Closest to: George Street & St Andrew Square
A slice of Americana with a twist of live music. Hard Rock Edinburgh has daily deals through the week and Friday night gigs that give the festival a rock ’n’ roll edge. Great burgers, generous portions and serious nostalgia.
Brunswick Book Club
113 Brunswick Street
Closest to: Leith Depot
Books, burgers and a brilliant terrace. This laid-back Leith hangout is a little off the Fringe track — but worth the wander. Expect creative energy, quiz nights and comfort food with a global edge, all tucked inside a bookish haven.
Dulse Leith
102 Constitution Street, Leith
Closest to: Leith Arches
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. From the team behind The Pompadour, Dulse offers refined dishes in a relaxed, modern space. Their new seafood boil experience is a standout — casual but memorable. The kind of place that turns dinner into an event.
From quick bites to wine-filled escapes, these are the spots we’re booking this Fringe season. Hungry yet?