From Arthur’s Seat to the Edinburgh Castle to partying on the Royal Mile there’s a load to see and do in Edinburgh, but how will you garner all the energy to do it? You need a good, regular feed in the Scottish capital’s top budget restaurants, that’ll keep you going. Luckily I’ve found them all for you.
Bert’s Bar, William Street
This traditional bar in Edinburgh is not only famed for its six cask ales, but the food is pretty darn good too. Stay traditional with Haggis, Neep and Tatties so you can tell the folks back at home you at least gave it a go, or you could go for the safe option with another Scottish favourite, Macaroni Cheese. The usual pub suspects are on the list too – burgers, sandwiches, lasagnes – so you’re sure to find something to fill you up.
Tailend, 14-15 Albert Place
You’ll find plenty of fish and chip shops as you wander the streets of Edinburgh, but none quiet like Tailend. The haddock and cod are freshly caught each morning, and you can also opt for something a little upmarket with steak pies or dressed crab. You can also get a tasty side order of delicious mushy peas, haggis or smokies if you like.
The Baked Potato Shop, 56 Cockburn Street
Hearty food that will fill you up for a great price is always good when you’re travelling on a budget. At the Baked Potato Shop you can get a portion fit for a king drenched in the topping of your choice. It’s perfectly positioned on the Royal Mile drag so you can take your feast and your fork and enjoy it from a prime position on the curb people watching.
Oink, 34 Victoria Street
This pig palace is a haven for meat eaters. You’ll be welcomed by a whole hog spit roasting in the window to supply the days feed. Owner of Oink, Adam Marshall, rears the pigs on his Berwickshire Farm organically. When it’s time for the little piggy to say goodbye to this world he salts it, then tray roasts it so it retains its juices before shredding it and serving it up on a bread roll with sage and onion stuffing and apple or chilli sauce. Perfect if you’re looking for a feast on the go, although there is some seating in there too.
Henderson’s, 94 Hanover Street
If you like to eat in arty surroundings Henderson’s is the cheap eat restaurant for you. It’s a gallery-cum-deli-cum-bakery offering delicious bites to eat all day long. The cafeteria-style restaurant in the basement serves tasty vegetarian food at great value prices. Think salads, soups, oatcakes and fitters along with a great range of tasty chutneys and condiments. Henderson’s has been serving Edinburgh for 50 years and regularly introduces new artistic talents via the special music and art evenings.
Written by Victoria Philpott from HostelBookers.com, she knows all about cheap Edinburgh accommodation and luckily about eating too.