Known as the capital city of Scotland, a district full of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes, Edinburgh is a stunning place to explore for travelers who are big fans of art, adventure, soul-searching, and everything in between. It is home to many unique architectural sites and several cultural events, including the famous Edinburgh Fringe, which is the largest arts festival in the world. Apart from the festivities, there are a lot of things to experience and places to see in this lively city. If you’re after stunning sceneries, Edinburgh is the place to be. And if you want to experience the best dining, Edinburgh’s Old Town is one of the places in the city to consider. For more dining options, check out our list below of the top rooftop restaurants in Edinburgh for the best experience.
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1. The Forth Floor Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Famous for its great views of the Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth, the Forth Floor Restaurant at Harvey Nichols, is an astounding restaurant to dine at when visiting the city. With its stylish and chic decor - including circular lights that start to glow once the sun descends and the sky becomes darker- it surely is a perfect venue for romantic dining. Apart from its setting, it also offers an extensive menu where you can try some of the delightful arrays of dishes made from the finest of Scottish produce. The drinks list, however, is a bonus. Be sure to finish your meal with one of the restaurant’s original concoctions.
The Forth Floor Restaurant
Address: 30-34, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD, United Kingdom
Website: The Forth Floor Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon: 10am - 6pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 12am; Sun: 11am - 6pm
2. Tower Restaurant
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed
Belonging to one of the must-visit rooftop restaurants in the city, Tower Restaurant is a combination of a classic and contemporary dining spot that features a luxurious and sensual interior with velvet hangings, mosaic bar, and tweed banquettes. Situated above the grand Museum of Scotland, the Tower gives diners the stunning scenes of the castle and the surrounding areas. Apart from that, you’ll love checking outs its extensive menu that features almost everything that you can think of, including Argyll oysters, Angus beef and lamb, and local seafood dishes made from the freshest ingredients. Come and visit the Tower and find out for yourself the reason behind its title as one of the award-winning restaurants in the city.
Tower Restaurant
Address: National Museum of Scotland, Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom
Website: Tower Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 10:30pm; Sun: 10am - 10pm
3. Heights Restaurant/ Metro
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
With a breathtaking backdrop of the drum tower of Edinburgh Castle, Heights Restaurant is a fine-dining experience you shouldn’t miss when visiting Edinburgh. One of the things to love about this place is its modern and colorful decor and furnishings that make the place lively and welcoming. Guests will also find it difficult not to fall in love with all the scenes to witness while seated at a spot that captures most of the wondrous views of the city. Offering the perfect combination of traditional with a hint of modern flavors, it’s a food trip worthy of your every penny. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before or after a day of sightseeing, Heights restaurant is a place to consider.
Heights Restaurant
Address: 31-35 Grassmarket, EH1 2HS Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Website: Heights Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 7:30am - 9pm
4. Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re a big fan of Thai food and are looking for a place that serves authentic dishes, you should consider giving Chaophraya Thai Restaurant a visit. Located at 33 Castle Street, Chaophraya gives guests picture-worthy rooftop views of Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth. One of the things that most regulars love about this eatery is its contemporary and casual set-up that makes the ambiance light and warm. Another good thing is its menu that offers a wide array of classic Thai and signature dishes like vegan and gluten-free options. And if you’re up for some cocktails and fruity drinks, Chaophraya will surely provide you with the most refreshing one.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
Address: 4th Floor, 33 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3DN, United Kingdom
Website: Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
5. Castlehill Rooftop Diner
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re new in the city, it’s only normal to be looking for the right place to explore. Castlehill is one of the famous destinations in Edinburgh for its lined charming buildings and rooftop restaurant options. If you want to dine at someplace that has an excellent ambiance and is pocket-friendly, Castlehill Rooftop Diner is the place to go. Choosing this dining option will give you striking views of majestic architectures and, of course, British and Scottish cuisines that will make your mouth water. Some of the dishes you shouldn’t miss are the salads, tomato soup, and nicely cooked sandwiches. And if you’re a coffee addict, you shouldn’t leave without trying the restaurant’s great coffee.
Castlehill Rooftop Diner
Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, United Kingdom
6. Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We are so excited to open for dinner on Tuesdays! And what better date to launch than tomorrow, Burns Night. So join...
Posted by Cannonball Restaurant & Bar on Monday, January 24, 2022
Experience the most of Edinburgh’s famous Old Town by indulging in the area’s finest Scottish eatery- Cannonball Restaurant. Its location in the Old Town makes it an ideal option to eat, especially after a long day of exploring all the area has to offer. Apart from having a convenient location, which is easily accessible especially to lone travelers, this rooftop restaurant offers marvelous views of the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a hearty meal, sweet treats, Cannonball Restaurant is always a great choice. Apart from that, the staff makes it a priority to give customers the best service.
Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
Address: 356 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF, United Kingdom
Website: Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 5:30pm - 10pm (closed on Mon & Sun)
7. The Outsider Restaurant
One of the locals’ favorite food venues in the city, The Outsider Restaurant is a typical French bistro with a laid-back atmosphere that most customers love. Located on the historic George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Outsider Restaurant is a wine bar that offers a classic and varied menu, which changes regularly. With new specials, cocktails, puddings, and cuisines, it’s no wonder both locals and tourists keep coming back for more. Some of the highlights are the charming views that will greet you upon your arrival.
The Outsider Restaurant
Address: 1ee, 15 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EE, United Kingdom
Website: The Outsider Restaurant
Opening hours: 12pm - 11pm (daily)
Breathtaking Edinburgh
Dubbed as the Athens of the North, Edinburgh is the place to go when looking for the perfect place where everything is already available. From breathtaking views and charming old buildings to great food options, there’s no better place than Edinburgh. Make sure to check out our list above for the best recommendations of rooftop restaurants in the city.
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