Livability scores

• Walkability 17 / 20
• Rail Connectivity 11 / 15
• Public Transit 8 / 10
• Affordability 9 / 15
• Safety 8 / 10
• Air Quality 8 / 10
• Quality Of Life 8 / 10
• Food Culture 4 / 5
• Car Free Practicality 8 / 5

Food guide

Edinburgh’s food culture blends traditional Scottish comfort dishes like haggis and hearty soups with a contemporary, globally influenced restaurant scene. Historic pubs, modern bistros, and lively markets highlight local seafood, game, baking, whisky and gin, making the city welcoming to both budget travelers and food-focused expats.

Signature dishes

• Haggis, Neeps and TattiesRich offal-based pudding served with mashed swede (neeps) and potatoes (tatties), Scotland’s signature plate.
• Cullen SkinkThick soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, a classic warming Scottish starter.
• Fish and Chips (Haddock)Deep-fried battered haddock with chips, often using smoked or fresh haddock.
• Scotch BrothHearty lamb and vegetable soup with barley, ideal for cold weather.
• Cock-a-Leekie SoupTraditional chicken and leek soup with peppery stock.
• CranachanDessert of whipped cream, whisky, honey, toasted oats and raspberries.
• ShortbreadButtery, crumbly biscuit associated with Scotland and often served with tea.
• Scottish TabletVery sweet, crystalline confection similar to fudge, made with sugar, butter and condensed milk.

Where to eat

• Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (Castle Terrace) Farmers’ marketSaturday market below the castle with local produce, street food and artisanal products.
• Stockbridge Market Farmers’ marketSunday market in Stockbridge with ready-to-eat meals, baked goods and regional specialties.
• The Gardener’s Cottage Seasonal local restaurantSet in a historic cottage serving set menus based on local, seasonal Scottish produce.
• BABA Modern restaurantEastern Mediterranean-inspired grill and mezze spot popular with locals and visitors.
• Mimi’s Bakehouse Bakery / caféLocal bakery known for cakes and sweet treats, including Scottish-style bakes.
• Stockbridge to Leith Food Area Dining districtRoute featuring cafés, cheesemongers and seafood restaurants by the water in Leith.

Markets & food shopping

• Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (Castle Terrace)
• Stockbridge Market