Must-Try Foods In St Giles' Cathedral (Edinburgh) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

St Giles' Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is a prominent landmark located on the Royal Mile in the heart of Scotland’s capital. While the Cathedral itself is not renowned for its association with food, the surrounding area has a rich culinary history that reflects the heritage of Edinburgh. The city has a strong tradition of local Scottish cuisine, influenced by both the rural bounty of Scotland and the historical connections with France, known as the "Auld Alliance."

Throughout history, food in the area has been characterized by hearty and comforting dishes. Scottish food staples include oats, dairy, root vegetables, and an abundance of seafood from the surrounding waters. Local taverns and eating houses would have traditionally served simple yet sustaining fare to the city’s residents and visitors. Today, Edinburgh's culinary scene has evolved to embrace international cuisine while still celebrating traditional Scottish flavors and local ingredients.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes near St Giles' Cathedral

1. Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties - A quintessential Scottish dish made from minced sheep offal mixed with oats and spices, traditionally served with mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties). (Non-Veg)
2. Scottish Porridge - A comforting bowl of oats cooked slowly, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt, a dollop of honey, or a splash of whisky. (Veg)
3. Cullen Skink - A thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. (Non-Veg)
4. Scotch Broth - A hearty and nutritious soup made with barley, lamb or mutton, and an assortment of vegetables. (Non-Veg)
5. Vegetarian Haggis - A meat-free version of the Scottish classic, made with lentils, beans, oats, and spices. (Veg)
6. Cranachan - A traditional Scottish dessert featuring whipped cream, whisky, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats. (Veg)
7. Shortbread - A buttery and crumbly biscuit that is a staple in Scottish baking. (Veg)
8. Tablet - A sweet Scottish confection made from sugar, condensed milk, and butter, similar to fudge but with a crumblier texture. (Veg)
9. Scottish Salmon - Renowned for its quality, Scottish salmon is often served smoked or as fresh fillets. (Non-Veg)
10. Bangers and Mash - Though not uniquely Scottish, this popular dish of sausages (bangers) with mashed potatoes is widely enjoyed across the UK. (Non-Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants near St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh

1. The Witchery by the Castle
   Address: 352 Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NF
   Famous Dish: Scottish Beef and Lamb Dishes (Non-Veg)
2. David Bann Restaurant
   Address: 56-58 St Mary's St, Edinburgh EH1 1SX
   Famous Dish: Vegetarian Haggis (Veg)
3. The Grain Store
   Address: 30 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW
   Famous Dish: Locally Sourced Scottish Cuisine (Non-Veg)
4. Howies Victoria
   Address: 10-14 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HG
   Famous Dish: Cullen Skink (Non-Veg)
5. Michael Neave Kitchen and Whisky Bar
   Address: 21 Old Fishmarket Close, Edinburgh EH1 1RW
   Famous Dish: Whisky and Local Cheese Pairing (Non-Veg/Veg options available)
6. Mother India's Café
   Address: 3-5 Infirmary St, Edinburgh EH1 1LT
   Famous Dish: Thali Plates (Non-Veg/Veg options available)
7. Pierre Victoire
   Address: 18 Eyre Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5EP
   Famous Dish: French-inspired Scottish dishes (Non-Veg)
8. Hanam's
   Address: 3 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2PW
   Famous Dish: Kurdish and Middle Eastern Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available)
9. Vegetable Love
   Address: Vegetarian Exclusive Area, Edinburgh
   Famous Dish: Vegan Haggis (Veg)
10. Angels with Bagpipes
    Address: 343 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1PW
    Famous Dish: Scottish Cuisine with a Modern Twist (Non-Veg/Veg options available)