15 hours ago
The 15 best spots for brunch in Edinburgh
Judging by the competition to nab a last-minute table at one of the city's many favourites, Edinburgh just might be the brunch capital of Scotland. Perhaps that's no surprise, given the level of choice available: whether you're after champagne and oysters, high-end organic fare, comfort dishes in a cosy café, or breakfast Singapore-style, there's somewhere to suit.
But you won't find any bottomless brunches here – licensing laws in Scotland prohibit them. That doesn't mean you can't order a cocktail or two, of course, but restaurants can't serve unlimited booze at an 'all in' price.
So, pop a cork or sink a Screwdriver and tuck in, because this city's big on breakfast.
All our recommendations below have been hand-selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best brunch in Edinburgh. Find out more below, and see our guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants and cafés, nightlife, pubs and bars, shopping, things to do and things to do for free.
Find a brunch by type:
Best all-rounders
Roseleaf
A bar may not be the first place you think of when you're looking for breakfast with children in tow. But kids will enjoy the whole 'Mad Hatter' teapot theme in this family-oriented pub located just off the Shore in Leith. Nothing on the menu will surprise or shock: expect hearty fry-ups, French toast, plus various eggs Benedict with child-sized versions at a reasonable price. Just keep an eye on your alcoholic 'pot-tail'.
Area: Leith
Public transport: There are trams and buses to the Shore stops.
Website:
Price: ££
Reservations: Recommended
Pantry
On the corner of classy Circus Place, where New Town and Stockbridge meet, this popular café is always busy (there's a telephone queuing system when needed). The love is understandable when fry-ups come with smoked paprika on roasted tomatoes, and French toast is a glory of rhubarb and custard. Variations on waffles, eggs Benedict and Thai-spiced pork on toast are regulars on the always-changing menu, with a welcoming kids' version too.
