The 20 Best French Restaurants in Edinburgh, Scotland

eòrna restaurant is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering an intimate chef’s counter experience centered on a seasonal tasting menu. Guests watch the chef prepare refined dishes that highlight Scottish produce while a knowledgeable sommelier guides the pairings. The relaxed, contemporary setting encourages conversation and a leisurely, immersive meal.

Purslane Restaurant is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering refined modern cuisine in an intimate, welcoming setting. Carefully composed tasting and set menus highlight well-balanced flavors, creative presentations, and thoughtful vegetarian options. Attentive, professional staff and considered touches, from amuse-bouches to petite desserts, create a polished dining experience.

Le Bistrot serves classic French cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and hearty bistro favorites. Guests mention dishes such as mussels, risotto, and grilled meats, all prepared with care and served hot. Set in an elegant historic building, the restaurant offers a lively atmosphere, spotless dining room, and attentive, well-organized service.

Brasserie Prince offers an elegant brasserie experience with a seasonal menu featuring carefully prepared seafood and meat dishes such as halibut, lamb, and mussels. Refined decor and a calm dining room create a relaxed backdrop for the meal. Attentive staff provide thoughtful guidance on both dishes and cocktails, including house gin creations and classic whisky sours.

Restaurant Martin Wishart is a Michelin one-star restaurant offering refined, multi-course menus with both classic and vegetarian options. Dishes emphasize fresh flavors and creative presentation, from carefully crafted amuse-bouche to more adventurous preparations. The dining room has a quiet, elegant feel with a spacious, airy layout. Attentive, welcoming staff contribute to a polished yet relaxed experience.

The Kitchin is a Michelin one-star restaurant offering modern Scottish cuisine with carefully prepared seafood, game, and seasonal produce. Dishes such as scallops, halibut, pork cheek, and venison are presented with clear explanations that highlight ingredients and technique. Attentive, well-coordinated service, an accomplished sommelier, and a lounge area for post-meal drinks contribute to a polished yet welcoming experience.

The Little Chartroom is a Michelin-selected restaurant in Leith offering modern Scottish cooking with a focus on local produce. Menus are concise yet imaginative, with dishes such as venison and refined cheese courses earning particular praise. A buzzing room, minimalist decor, and an open kitchen create an energetic setting, while the staff are noted for being welcoming and well-informed.

Cafe Marlayne is an intimate cafe-restaurant tucked away on a quiet street near central Edinburgh. The kitchen offers European-inspired cooking with Scottish influences, from seafood and steaks to classic desserts like sticky toffee pudding and cheesecake. A welcoming team and lively, cozy dining room create an inviting setting for an unhurried meal.

L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar offers classic French cuisine prepared with high-quality local ingredients. Dishes such as beef bourguignon, lamb, steak tartare, and crème brûlée highlight rich, well-balanced flavors and careful execution. The intimate, bustling dining room evokes a Parisian bistro, complemented by attentive, knowledgeable service and an inviting downstairs wine bar.

Word of Mouth Morningside is a family-run café serving freshly roasted coffee, chai, breakfast dishes, and vegetarian-friendly options. Guests highlight the smooth coffee, rich cakes, Greek pastries, and well-prepared classics like Eggs Benedict. The bright, clean interior and relaxed, welcoming staff create an inviting spot for a leisurely break or a quick drink to go.

L'Etoile Salon de Tea is a welcoming café known for handmade cakes, pastries, and classic teas and coffees. The kitchen offers an extensive selection of gluten-free options, with staff who carefully explain ingredients and preparation. Guests describe light, flavorful bakes and a relaxed setting suited to both casual visits and informal meetings.

The Village Bistro is a cozy, family-run spot known for homemade comfort dishes, from fresh soups and savory pies to generously prepared sandwiches. Guests praise the selection of cakes, scones, and biscuits, all baked on the premises and paired with well-made coffee. A cheerful atmosphere, attentive service, and spotless, attractive decor create a welcoming setting for relaxed dining.

Le Di-Vin is a characterful wine bar offering a broad selection of wines alongside a French-oriented menu of light bites, including options like smoked fish platters and charcuterie boards. Guests highlight the attentive, gracious service, from the warm welcome on arrival to considerate checks throughout the visit. The inviting ambiance and well-curated wine list create a relaxed setting for enjoying food and drink together.

La P'tite Folie offers refined European cuisine with a strong French influence, featuring dishes such as beef bourguignon, veal terrine, and carefully prepared seafood. Desserts like crème brûlée and sticky toffee pudding are consistently praised. The upstairs dining room provides an inviting setting for both everyday meals and special gatherings, supported by attentive, accommodating service and an appealing wine bar downstairs.

Petit Paris offers a traditional French bistro experience with well-executed classics such as mussels, French onion soup, and simply prepared fish. Guests highlight the warm welcome, attentive, courteous service, and the lively yet comfortable dining room. Its intimate interior and outdoor seating evoke a relaxed, Parisian-style ambiance in the heart of Grassmarket.

LeftField is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering modern European cuisine in an intimate, quietly buzzing dining room. Dishes such as roast hake showcase careful cooking, balanced flavors, and thoughtful presentation, complemented by a well-chosen wine selection. Attentive, professional service and the option of a private downstairs room make it suited to both everyday meals and special occasions.

Bar Prince offers a polished hotel bar experience, ideal for a leisurely drink or a pause from exploring the city. Guests enjoy well-chosen wines, Champagne, and classic cocktails, complemented by refined snacks and desserts such as cheese plates and crème brûlée. The space feels cosy yet sophisticated, and the attentive staff create a welcoming atmosphere for both brief visits and longer stays.