Restaurants, bars and cafes with incredible Edinburgh Castle views
Here are eight places to eat and drink with incredible views of Edinburgh Castle.
Cold Town House
4 Grassmarket
As we enter the warmer months, this roof terrace space has been given a makeover with an orange-drenched Aperol Spritz theme.
Regardless of promotional decor, the views of the castle from Cold Town House in Grassmarket never fail to impress.
It's a total suntrap, and Cold Town can also proudly boast a handful of impressive awards from Rooftop Bar of the Year in 2021 to 'Beer of the Year' at the 2025 London Beer Competitions.
W Lounge
W Edinburgh Hotel, 1 St James Square
Located on the 11th floor of the 5-star W Edinburgh hotel, the W Lounge offers unique 360-degree views of the city from Calton Hill to the Castle.
The W Deck outdoor terrace is at its best when the sun shines, serving seasonal cocktails and snacks.
If you're after a bite to eat, it's also worth checking out SushiSamba on the floor below for a feast of Peruvian, Japanese and Brazilian fusion.
1820 at Johnnie Walker Princes Street
145 Princes Street
While the 1820 rooftop bar at Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a must-visit for whisky fans, the team's carefully curated range of highball cocktails is also a fantastic introduction to the spirit for anyone unsure of a dram served neat.
This includes the Apple and Chai Spice with Johnnie Walker Black Label and homemade apple soda, a coconut and sencha green tea creation, or a blend of Iron Brew Sour Beer, Johnnie Walker Gold Label and vanilla foam.
Cannonball
356 Castlehill
From the same folk behind the fabulous Contini George Square restaurant, 'classic, beautiful cooking with a contemporary touch' is the name of the game at Cannonball.
Located within a 17th-century townhouse next to Edinburgh Castle, this three-storey building is steeped in history and is even said to be home to 'Scotland's oldest door knocker'.
The team said: "The bar is dark and cosy and the restaurant is bright, airy and very romantic in the evening when we light all our candles.
"Our menus change throughout the month to reflect what is seasonally available. Beautiful classic cooking with a modern finish, we promise to not disappoint."
Chaophraya
33 Castle Street
Chaophraya serves a menu of classic and modern Thai food from breakfast dishes right through to evening sharing platters and desserts.
Fiery smashed Thai avocado on toast with poached eggs, Panang sous vide beef bao buns with shredded lime leaves and fragrant curry sauces - you'll find it all here.
If you're keen to go the extra mile or celebrate a special event while visiting Edinburgh, consider booking a private dining space like the Glass Box, Castle View or Terrace for some spectacular views across the city.
The Outsider
15 – 16 George IV Bridge
The Outsider are confident that they offer the 'best view of the castle in Edinburgh'.
Fancy putting the claim this claim to the test?
Expect to do so while enjoying a menu of modern European cuisine like pan-roasted duck breast, pear and brie spanakopita, whole roast lobster with garlic butter, fries and salad or artichoke, marscapone and walnut tagliatelle with lemon and spinach.
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Starbucks
120 Princes Street
I'm not going to tell you that this chain giant serves anything close to the best cup of coffee in the city.
But there's simply no denying that this Princes Street location, opened in late 2023, is one of the best places to marvel at Edinburgh Castle in all its glory.
If you're lucky enough to grab a seat beside the floor-to-ceiling windows which frame the vista perfectly, you'll understand why it's difficult to peel yourself away. Even long after that overpriced latte is finished.
Kyloe
1 – 3 Rutland Street
This independent restaurant on Rutland Street partners with some of Scotland's top butchers to source the best of beef cuts for its market menu and award-winning Sunday lunches.
It also happens to have a cracking view of the castle, meaning you can watch the sun set over the scene as you tuck into a thick fillet steak, East Coast Cured charcuterie board or half a dozen oysters from Scottish waters.
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