The Full Student Guide To Edinburgh Lunch Spots
After a busy morning of lectures and hard work on campus, nothing beats catching up with friends over a good lunch.
For students living in the Scottish capital, you are well catered for when it comes to an afternoon meal out, with a range of different places across the city offering all sorts of cuisine. So many options can make choosing difficult, but that is where we come in.
In this full student guide, we are giving you a rundown of the top Edinburgh lunch spots.
Edinburgh Lunch Spots
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
A firm Edinburgh institution, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is celebrated for serving Scottish cuisine at its best. Specialising in mashed potato served with a range of toppings and made from delicious, healthy, locally produced food, this place is the definition of comfort food.
For a traditional plate, try their Beef Haggis served with your choice of mash. For a vegan option, the Vegetarian Haggis comes highly recommended. The menu also features gluten-free and dairy-free options, so there is something for everyone.
This cosy mash bar is a must-visit for lunch enthusiasts in Edinburgh.
Address: 9 North Bank Street, Edinburgh EH1 2LP
Loudon’s New Waverley
For lovely, fresh food served in stylish surroundings, Loudon’s New Waverley is where you need to head. This award-winning café and artisan bakery has built up quite the reputation in Edinburgh thanks to its breakfast, brunch and lunch menu.
Here you can get together with friends and enjoy the likes of their Croque Monsieur French Toast, along with a mean cappuccino for the coffee lovers among you.
Address: 2 Sibbald Walk, Edinburgh EH8 8FT
Urban Angel
Urban Angel has been making serious waves in central Edinburgh for years, earning a reputation for its broad and thoughtfully sourced menu. There is plenty to choose from at lunchtime to suit all tastes, whether you are vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free.
Their ever-changing specials list is well worth checking out too, and booking in advance is recommended.
Address: 121 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
EM’s Kitchen
On the hunt for one of the best lunch spots in and around Edinburgh, EM’s Kitchen should be high on your list. Open every day from 8 am until 4 pm, this popular cafe serves some of the most loved dishes around, from Scottish breakfasts to Eggs Florentine to Nutella and Banana Pancakes.
Great-tasting food, quick and friendly service and a relaxed vibe make this a reliable choice after a morning study session.
Address: 38 St Mary’s Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SX
Wanderlust Cafe and Bistro
On the hunt for the best places to eat in the Old Town? Wanderlust Cafe and Bistro is a cosy little lunch spot on Canongate, kitted out in contemporary interiors and offering a wide-ranging menu. There are plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, so no matter your dietary requirements, you will find something to suit.
Their lunch menu is great value, so ditch cooking in your student flat and head on down.
Address: 274 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AA
Tani Modi Brunch House
If you are after somewhere to catch up with friends over great food, Tani Modi Brunch House is a small, family-run cafe on Hanover Street, celebrated for its legendary pancakes and Italian-influenced brunch menu. From inventive pancake specials to toasties and freshly made sandwiches, there is something to keep everyone happy.
Having earned a loyal following in Edinburgh, this place fills up fast, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Address: 103 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
The Pantry
One place that comes up in conversation time and time again as a great lunch spot is The Pantry. This modern restaurant is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and specialises in top-class lunch options.
Open every day of the week from 9 am until 4 pm, highlights include their Pork Belly Rice Noodle Salad and Prawn Rolls. Be sure to check out the special board for the soup and sandwich of the day, too.
Address: 1 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh EH3 6ST
The Piper’s Rest
Located in Edinburgh’s famous Old Town, The Piper’s Rest serves traditional Scottish food alongside craft beers and a great selection of malt whiskies. If hearty pub grub is what you are after, this place delivers, with live music seven nights a week, adding to the atmosphere.
From classic steak pie to haggis favourites, the menu is built around locally sourced Scottish ingredients.
Address: 3 Hunter Square, Edinburgh EH1 1QW
The Pakora Bar
The Pakora Bar is the ultimate lunch hangout for authentic, home-made Punjabi street food. Run by three brothers using their mother’s recipes, here you can choose from a large selection of pakoras, samosas, curries and more, including a famous haggis pakora for something a little different. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
Please note that The Pakora Bar is currently open Thursday to Sunday from 12:30 pm to 9:30 pm, so plan accordingly.
Address: 111 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AU
As a student in Edinburgh, you are blessed with so many lunch spots to choose from, each offering something different. Do you want to find out more about life in Edinburgh?