- The Fringe is thirsty work, so be in the know about Edinburgh’s vibrant and diverse food and drink scene to refresh yourself in between performances
- From quirky and cool bars to tasty seasonal Scottish fare, there’s something for everyone in this iconic city where entertainment thrives
As the world’s biggest arts festival returns this August, Edinburgh transforms into a stage not just for global talent but for incredible food and drink. Whether you’re there for a night or a week, this guide will help you make the most of your Fringe experience with unforgettable culinary moments between shows.
Step into Edinburgh Gin’s new carbon-neutral distillery with panoramic views from the Rooftop Bars and a beautifully curated cocktail menu. Enjoy icy martinis, citrus spritzes and tasting flights. Book an immersive tasting experience or even make your own bottle of gin.
Ideal for daytime dining or drinks on the terrace. Enjoy Belhaven-smoked salmon alongside creative brunch cocktails including a Berry Bubbles and Rhubarb Sour.
A festival hotspot with an Edinburgh Gin terrace bar featuring cocktails and seasonal spritzes which is only open over the Fringe. Enjoy a buzzing atmosphere with seasonal British and European dishes.
Located in the National Gallery, this café serves artisan‑led Scottish fare – Cullen Skink, venison, butteries – sourced from over 70 local suppliers. Try a garden-inspired G&T or a French 75 on the terrace.
Expect playful Scottish twists on pub food like haggis nachos and Guinness pie alongside local ales and creative cocktails such as a Berry Bramble. A great casual Fringe pit stop.
This iconic Fringe venue isn’t just for performance – sip award-winning Edinburgh Gin cocktails such as its Berri Summer Slushie, Berri or Rubi spritz, under the lights. A magical pre- or post-show treat.
A vibrant food hall showcasing some of Scotland’s best chefs. Highlights include Creel caught by Gary Maclean (sustainable seafood) and Radge Chaat by Tony Singh (Indian street food). Also enjoy three onsite bars serving craft beers, gins and signature cocktails.
This relaxed Scottish bistro, set in a Georgian hall, is perfect for classic local fare including East Lothian lobster. An extensive drinks list features local whiskies including Tamdhu 12 Year Old Single Malt and a range of creative cocktails from Hugo Spritz to Strawberries and Cream.
A Grassmarket favourite, this lively Irish pub serves hearty Irish stew plus Irish Coffees, Scottish gins and curated cocktails like its Fig and Fizz.
A new spin on Old Town charm at this 5 star hotel in Edinburgh’s city centre. Take your pick from numerous dining and drinking options which includes a curated Edinburgh Gin cocktail menu as a Fringe special.
Sophisticated venue where you’ll find a bar with a fantastic selection of cocktails, a restaurant as well as an award-winning night club.
Sip premium Scottish gin cocktails like its Speyside Blossom cocktail or a Glengoyne 12 Year Old whilst enjoying seasonal small plates, from oysters to afternoon tea, all with skyline views. A sophisticated spot for a mid-Festival breather.
Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from this Royal Mile brasserie, serving modern Scottish dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
Upscale steakhouse offering Kobe and Scotch-aged T-bone steaks, signature Croque Sandos and a stylish, signature cocktail list. Try the Leaf Garden or Harmony cocktail in a luxe setting.
Italian classics with Scottish produce in a grand Georgian banking hall. Think homemade pasta, burrata and seafood, paired with Italian wines and cocktails.
Look forward to hearty robata grilled dishes – pork belly, tandoori sea bass, and Scottish steaks – and a cocktail list focused on light spritzes and G&T’s.
Levantine small plates meet bold Scottish produce in this spice-forward spot. Try the grilled lamb, charred cauliflower and inventive mezze from chef Tom Greer.
Modern Scottish cuisine led by chefs Chris Niven and Paul Hart with a focus on local produce – Scotch beef, Peterhead hake, rich pâtés – and an exceptional selection of craft gins, whiskies and cocktail including its Grande Café Negroni which is blended at least 72 hours in advance to allow the spirits to settle into each other.
Enjoy over 500 whiskies and elegant gin-based cocktails, including Edinburgh Gin’s Cramond Island cocktail, and Glengoyne’s Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- The Court, Caledonian Hotel
Award-winning chef Mark Greenaway brings bold, seasonal Scottish dishes in a refined 6-course tasting experience, paired with inventive cocktails like its Wild Negroni or Edinburgh Rose.
