Pera brings a burst of Turkish warmth to Hanover Street, pairing colourful, character-filled décor with generous plates of authentic comfort food. It’s the kind of restaurant where candlelight, hanging lanterns, and a rainbow of chairs set the tone for relaxed, homely dining — and where every dish feels rooted in tradition, hospitality, and flavour.

Thackray House in Callander blends centuries of history with timeless luxury, offering garden‑to‑plate dining, characterful rooms, a flourishing walled garden and food crafted from the landscape itself. It’s a stay that nourishes in every sense.

Afternoon Tea at The Register Club is Edinburgh on a plate — three elegant stages of savoury bites, Highland cranachan and city‑inspired patisserie, all served in the luxurious calm of The Edinburgh Grand. From Edinburgh Gin‑laced rhubarb tart to a reimagined Edinburgh Rock cake, every flavour tells a story of the city. Thoughtful tea pairings, impeccable service and a setting made for slow Sundays make this one of Edinburgh’s most refined afternoon tea experiences.

Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to some of Scotland’s most charming independent cafés — places where craft baking, great coffee, and coastal or neighbourhood character come together beautifully. These ten favourites span the city and its nearby seaside towns, offering everything from perfect pastries to cliff‑top brunches, making them essential stops for anyone who loves thoughtful food and welcoming spaces.

Hawksmoor is turning back the clock for its 20th anniversary, offering a one‑day‑only Classics Menu at the original 2006 price of £45. From Old Spot Belly Ribs to the legendary Sticky Toffee Pudding, I went along to try the menu — and it’s a spectacular celebration of everything that made Hawksmoor iconic.

WhirlyBird is the newest all‑day modern tavern to land on Victoria Street — a bright, beautifully designed café‑bar‑restaurant led by operator Ash Bairstow and chef Lucia Gregusova. With Scottish ingredients at its core, a clever drinks list and a relaxed Old Town atmosphere, it’s a polished newcomer bringing fresh energy to one of Edinburgh’s busiest streets.

The Hoxton Edinburgh has launched its new Hedonistic Brunch Series — a monthly celebration of exceptional wines, indulgent brunch dishes and laid‑back Sunday vibes. With Bellavista sparkling wines, an abundant Italian feast and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s one of the city’s most exciting new weekend rituals.

Set within the greenery of Royal Terrace Gardens, The Cottage is a historic Edinburgh landmark transformed into an intimate dining experience. With a faultless seasonal tasting menu, elegant wine pairings and a serene communal dining space, this new restaurant delivers one of the city’s most memorable meals.

Protein isn’t just for gym‑goers — it’s essential for everyone. This guide explores simple, realistic ways to add more protein to everyday meals, from breakfast tweaks and smarter snacks to baking boosts and convenient collagen additions. Small changes can make a big difference, helping you feel fuller, energised, and nourished throughout the day.

Brasas is the fiery new chapter from The Peruvian at Edinburgh Street Food — a menu built on glowing coals, open flames and bold Peruvian flavour. Expect smoky rotisserie chicken, tender lomo saltado, and sides kissed by the grill. Carlo has taken ESF’s favourite Peruvian stall and turned the heat all the way up.

Dishoom Edinburgh is shining a golden spotlight on the short‑lived Alphonso mango season, offering six weeks of limited‑edition dishes and drinks that celebrate India’s most prized summer fruit. From mango kulfi to bowls of glistening Alphonso cubes with melting vanilla ice cream, this is sunshine served tableside — and a seasonal moment you don’t want to miss.

Machina Coffee Roasters has opened Edinburgh’s first dedicated barista training hub — a fully immersive space designed for hands-on learning, equipment testing and industry collaboration. With world‑class machines, expert trainers and a focus on elevating Scottish hospitality, this new showroom is set to transform how businesses approach coffee.

Flùr has brought serious New York energy to Bonnie & Wild, serving super‑thin, crisp‑based pizzas and deeply comforting pasta dishes. From the moreish Ziti with ragu Genovese to perfectly blistered Margherita slices, this is one of the most exciting new arrivals in the St James Quarter.

Love to Cook in Crieff is the newest culinary gem from chef and pâtissier Sam Heeney‑Governo. From hand‑crafted sourdough and French pastries to hands‑on cookery workshops, this beautiful new space brings professional‑level teaching to the heart of Perthshire. I joined Sam for her Perfect Sponge masterclass — a deep dive into the art of the Genoise — and left inspired, well‑fed, and ready to take on the Bake Off tent.

Board Sundays at The Hoxton Edinburgh blends two of the city’s favourite things: a hearty Sunday roast and a slow, sociable afternoon. With sharing platters, bar bites, board games and a cosy, stylish lobby, it’s the perfect way to stretch a Sunday out.

The second Eating and Waiting to Eat supper club at Sabzi brought together great chat, bold flavours, and true family hospitality. With communal plates, warm introductions, and dishes that sparked conversation, this collaboration showed exactly why Carlos and Kevin’s events are set to grow — and why you should book the next one.

Mirin on Leith Walk is a compact, creative Asian‑fusion restaurant serving bold, flavour‑packed small plates. Portions are small and prices punchy, but the inventive dishes and unusual ingredients make it a memorable Monday‑night find in Edinburgh.

Haldi is one of Southside Edinburgh’s best‑kept secrets — a tiny, understated Indian restaurant run by the ever‑welcoming Madan, serving tremendous food that keeps locals coming back. From knockout Chicken 65 to smoky butter chicken and nostalgic Malabar prawns, this is a neighbourhood gem worth seeking out.

Take Five’s bao workshop in Edinburgh is a joyful, hands‑on experience where you knead, colour, fill and shape your own bao buns. Creative, calming and delicious — the perfect foodie morning in Quartermile.

Celestia Indian has pivoted beautifully from fine dining to flavour‑packed, traditional Indian dishes — and their Celestial Lunch Menu is one of the best bargains in Edinburgh. Stunning interiors, generous portions, and prices that feel almost too good to be true.