Edinburgh Festival Guide P3

16 December 2022|Read time 2 mins

We've taken a look at booking and budget. In this instalment of our Festival guide, we're taking a look at essential food and drink.

A social snifter goes hand in hand with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Throw in a satisfied tummy, and you’re on to a winner.

Edinburgh Festival Guide P3: Food and drink

I’ve put together my preferred residences for top tipples and treats, that will keep you in the Festival spirit.

Best boozers for…

A dram: The Albanach

Nestled in the heart of it all on the Royal Mile, The Albanach is packed full of over 220 malt whiskies.

This is a great ‘all-rounder’ with something for everyone, so real ale fans and the lime and soda squad will all be kept happy, too.

Alfresco: Pear Tree House

This glorious suntrap is a firm favourite amongst locals and is situated right in the centre of all of the Festival action, just off of George Square.

Some summertime sophistication: George Street

George Street, famous for cocktail bars and boutiques, is in the process of being made more pedestrian-friendly.

Café culture explodes each summer, as the patio furniture and Spiegeltent spill out onto this now car-less street.

Soaking up the Festival atmosphere: George Square

George Square is your one-stop shop for all that the Fringe has to offer.

There are venues, bars, food vans, and oodles of electricity in the atmosphere.

Coffee: Brew Lab

It’s easy to get carried away with Fringe festivities, so, when it’s time to refresh head to Brew Lab for a pick-me-up.

Featuring local artisan produce, and expertly brewed coffee, this is seriously the best caffeine hit in Edinburgh.

Best belly fillers for…

Scottish and locally sourced: Bon Vivant

How to describe Bon Vivant? Think Scottish tapas.

Wee bites of tasty food allow you to create your own platters, and the menu changes daily to keep up with the best produce available.

Homemade delights: The Doric

The Doric claims to be Edinburgh’s oldest gastropub, but the biggest draw is by far their delicious Scottish-based menu, filled with Haggis, Loch farmed mussels, and Scottish salmon.

Staying in the thick of the Festival action: City Cafe

A stalwart of 80s and 90s underground Edinburgh, the City Café has since had a retro refurb and is perfect for some hearty diner-style grub just off of the Royal Mile.

Cheap eats: Red Box Noodle bar

Located just off George Square, Red Box offers noodles and Asian snacks cooked to your liking before your very eyes. Fresh, tasty, and cheap as… chicken skewers.

A special treat: Balmoral Number One

Residing, arguably, at Edinburgh’s premier address with its own Michelin Star, Number One is your best bet for an unforgettable experience.

Expect the very finest blend of Scottish and French cuisine, delivered with a smile and not one ounce of stuffiness.

Something exotic: Kanpai

With an AA rosette under its belt, this is some serious sushi.

The ambience is cool, calm and collected, but you can always spice things up by taking a seat at the bar directly overlooking the chefs.

Book your festival holiday let

Remember, if you haven't booked your Festival Accommodation, view our self-catering options to find a luxury apartment during your time here (often at a cheaper rate than a hotel).

We hope you enjoyed our Festival guide. If you have some more festival hints and tips do let us know!