I usually plan my trips well in advance, but every now and then, the itch to get away strikes unexpectedly. When that happens, I crave somewhere that’s close to home, is effortlessly charming, and most importantly is packed with great places to eat. For a foodie like me, that’s non-negotiable. For a weekend that ticks all those boxes, Edinburgh is top of my list.
I can hop on a train in the morning, decaf coffee in hand, window seat claimed and watch the landscape shift from the city skyline to open fields and patchwork hills. By late afternoon, I’m stepping off the train into a city that feels instantly familiar. There’s something about the cobbled streets, weathered stone buildings and gothic architecture that instantly sets a slower pace. It's the kind of place that makes me want to put my phone away and just wander.
From the historic charm of the Royal Mile to the breathtaking views atop Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh never fails to impress. The city is a blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy, where centuries-old buildings house cosy, welcoming pubs, and winding alleys lead to discoveries. By night, the city transforms with a buzzing bar scene, live music venues, and tucked-away whisky dens, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. However this time, my mission was simple, eat well and enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene.
On my first evening, I wandered over to The Voyage of Buck, a short walk from my hotel. This charming gastro-pub blends a cosy, inviting atmosphere with a modern twist. The cocktail menu is top-notch, and the food hits all the right notes for comfort. They’d just launched their spring menu, so my visit was well-timed. I skipped starters (I know, bold move) and dove straight into the main, castle game venison sausage with crushed new potatoes and crispy onion rings. To drink, I went with a zero-proof strawberry spritz, a refreshing burst of summer in a glass. The energy was spot-on for a Friday night, lively yet relaxed.
Saturday morning started with a pastry pilgrimage to Lannan Bakery in Stockbridge. I’d heard the hype, and, of course, there was a line before the bakery opened (a good sign, right?). I grabbed the classic croissant and pain au chocolat as well as their cinnamon custard bun. Let me tell you, everything was just as good as they say. The pastries were huge, perfectly flaky and delicate, and that cinnamon custard bun? It was outrageously good, the perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and spice.
Lunch was at the Port of Leith Distillery and it is impossible to miss the sleek, glass-fronted building on the waterfront. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of the Firth of Forth and it quickly became clear that this place is as much about the breathtaking views as it is about the food. The menu is seasonal and locally focused, with a thoughtfully curated mix of meat, seafood, and plant-based options. I opted for the Silesian potato dumplings, a hearty, rich vegan dish with almond brown butter, sage, and butternut squash. Other tempting options on the menu included a reimagined Scotch egg, slow-cooked beef, and a fresh crab starter, each dish thoughtfully crafted with the season’s ingredients in mind. With the combination of thoughtfully prepared food, a relaxed atmosphere, and incredibly clear views, it was the kind of place where lunch can easily stretch well into the day.
Later that afternoon, I made my way to the Lind & Lime Distillery for a gin tour. As soon as I stepped in, I was handed a double Lind & Lime gin and tonic, talk about a welcome! It set the tone for what turned out to be a lively, interactive tour and far from the typical “sit back and listen” experience. I was right in the middle of the action, engaging with each step of the process. We started by smelling and tasting (depending on the ingredient) each of the seven botanicals that make up their signature gin. After exploring the botanicals, we moved on to something a little more hands-on; to fill, seal, and label our own mini bottle of Lind & Lime to take home. The fun didn’t stop there, we rolled straight into a mini cocktail-making session. We whipped up a super simple yet delicious Gimlet cocktail using just gin, lime juice, and sugar syrup. It was sharp, zesty, and surprisingly easy to make.
I wrapped up my evening at Tipo, one of Edinburgh’s most talked-about Italian-inspired spots. Since it opened in 2021, it has built a loyal following of fans who come for its small plates with a modern twist. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between casual and chic, with a minimalist design that gives it a cool, relaxed vibe. But let’s be real, I was there for the food. The menu changes based on what’s in season, and it’s made for sharing, which is great because I wanted to try as much as possible. I started with the sourdough potato focaccia, the white garlic flatbread, and the watercress trout. But it was the lamb fritte that caught me off guard in the best way; rich, crisp, and perfectly seasoned, it was the standouts of the night. For my pasta dish, I dove into the strozzapreti with short rib ragu, a comforting, deeply savoury dish that was everything you want from handmade pasta. I also tried the whole fried bream, which arrived golden and crisp. I ended on a sweet note with the vanilla and rhubarb soft serve, which was light, fresh and the perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal.
Where I Stayed for the Weekend
Arriving in Edinburgh on a crisp Friday afternoon, I made my way to The Resident Hotel, a building with a bit of a backstory. Originally constructed between 1957 and 1961, it was once the rather unlovely Meldrum House, home to HMRC offices. Today, it has been beautifully repurposed and transformed into something striking and stylish, shedding its former reputation without losing its historic charm. The redesign is clean and modern and blends effortlessly into the surrounding architecture, that you’d never guess it was once considered one of Edinburgh’s more forgettable facades.
Inside, the 164-room hotel is stylish and surprisingly homey. Just a short stroll from Princes Street and Charlotte Square, the location couldn’t be better. It’s close to all the buzz and the heart of the city for convenience yet tucked away enough to feel calm and relaxing. I stayed in a King suite, and woke up to views of Edinburgh Castle which was a nice way to start the day. The interiors are well-considered, with a mix of soft neutrals, warm woods, and clever lighting that made my room feel inviting. Every inch of space had been used thoughtfully, with ample storage, a compact standing shower, and clever spots to stash luggage and hang coats. Since there’s no on-site restaurant, rooms come equipped with a fridge, sink, microwave, and a Nespresso machine, all the essentials I need for a self-sufficient stay. It’s a smart setup, especially for longer visits. The hotel is also pet-friendly which is a bonus for those traveling with their four-legged companions.
In the evenings, I’d wind down in the beautifully designed library lounge or join other guests for informal drinks with the hotel manager, a warm, relaxed way to swap stories and gather tips. One of my favourite touches was the “Resident Insiders” service. The team is on hand to offer tailored recommendations, so whether you’re after a great dinner spot, a hidden cocktail bar, or the perfect place to catch the sunset, they’ve got you covered.
Just as quickly as it began, my foodie weekend in Edinburgh came to an end. From sampling seasonal flavours, to uncovering dining spots across the city, every moment was a culinary delight. Edinburgh’s food scene blends heritage and innovation, offering something to satisfy every palate. With my appetite fulfilled and new memories made, I plan on returning to discover more of its delicious secrets.
