The Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare in the heart of Edinburgh, has a rich culinary history influenced by Scottish traditions and the diverse cultures that have inhabited the city over centuries. Dating back to medieval times, the Royal Mile was a place where traders and merchants from across the seas would bring their goods, introducing new spices and flavors to the local cuisine. Scottish staples, such as oats, barley, root vegetables, and an abundance of seafood from nearby waters, have been the backbone on which traditional dishes were created. The Royal Mile, with its proximity to Edinburgh Castle and its colorful closes (alleyways), has witnessed the evolution of Scottish food from simple, hearty fare to the modern and innovative cuisine found today.