Love in Edinburgh: The Dickins Edit

It’s easy to fall in love with Edinburgh. The city feels lifted from a storybook, with its hidden closes, sweeping streets and swoon-worthy views crowned by the Castle. It’s no surprise couples are drawn here, whether they’re visiting or lucky enough to live in the city. As always at Dickins, we’re sharing our authentic, insider’s perspective. Whether you’re planning a date night or a short break in Edinburgh we have a few ideas for where to find those special spots in the city.

Atmospheric Restaurants in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to some very romantic restaurants, perfect for a special night out. Here is our curated selection of them, from cosy and relaxed to high-end and breathtaking-in no particular order. Just make sure to book in advance.

1. The Secret Garden, The Witchery, Castlehill

The Secret Garden is irresistibly romantic. A descent down candle-lit stone stairs leads to a breathtaking space adorned with rich tapestries, a one-of-a-kind painted ceiling, and intricately carved oak. Illuminated almost entirely by candlelight, the atmosphere is unforgettable.

2. Monteiths, Royal Mile

Monteiths is perfectly tucked away down a pretty close off the Royal Mile. You’ll step into a warm, inviting and cosy atmosphere and feel like you’ve discovered a real gem. With delicious, inventive cocktails, an impressive wine list and a cute whisky snug it makes for an unforgettable experience.

3. Six by Nico, Hanover & Queensferry Street

Always a fun and memorable experience, Six by Nico is another great choice for a special meal. From 26th January until 8th March they’re cooking up their Lost in Paris theme, capturing the city of love perfectly across six thoughtfully-curated courses.

4. Vinette, Broughton Street

Chef Stuart Ralston’s latest Edinburgh venture, Vinette is a Parisian-style bar à vin serving bistro-inspired dishes in a cool, laid-back setting. It’s perfect for a relaxed but beautiful dinner with superb food and friendly service. After your meal, head downstairs to Vivien their intimate cocktail bar, where you can enjoy a bespoke cocktail to finish the night in style. The recipe for an unforgettable evening.

5. Barry Fish, The Shore

If you’re after fish or seafood for a stunning meal you have to try Barry Fish in the heart of Leith. It’s relaxed, welcoming and the food is unforgettable. Barry Fish was shortlisted for the newcomer of the year at the Scotsman Food & Drink awards just 4 months after opening. Unmissable!

6. Ardfern, Bonnington Road, Leith

If you’d rather go for brunch than dinner we love heading to Ardfern for one of the very best brunches in the city. The perfect spot for a feast before heading out for a walk! Lovely friendly staff, chilled, vibey atmosphere and outstanding, flavoursome food. Consistently brilliant!

7. The Spence, Gleneagles Townhouse, St Andrew Square

The Spence at Edinburgh’s Georgian Gleneagles Townhouse is the perfect setting for a romantic date night. With flawless food, perfectly crafted cocktails and elegant interiors, dining at The Spence is always an experience. There’s a buzz and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy shared plates and indulgent desserts.

8. The Outsider, George IV Bridge

The Outsider is ideal for an atmospheric meal overlooking Edinburgh Castle. Request a window table when you book, and if you secure one, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Old Town rooftops and up to Edinburgh Castle.

9. The Spanish Butcher, North Castle Street

When it just has to be the best steak and chips and a bottle of Spanish red, head for the atmospheric The Spanish Butcher. With its leather seating and dark wood panelling, it has a distinctly classy feel. The service, steaks and ambiance are all absolutely top-class and it makes for the perfect intimate date night. Opt for the Galician beef for a real treat.

10. Dogstar, Portland Place, Leith

And finally, another outstanding newcomer to Leith: a brilliant Scottish restaurant from Michelin-starred chef James Murray and the team behind Nauticus. Set in a beautifully revitalised old Leith pub, Dogstar delivers bold, punchy flavours alongside warm, generous hospitality.

Best Oyster Bars in Edinburgh

Oysters have long been associated with romance and if you fancy trying them out Edinburgh is a great place to indulge in a shared plate. Read on for our top picks for beautiful, fresh Scottish oysters:

1. White Horse Oyster Bar, Canongate, Royal Mile

A gem housed in one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, dating back to 1742 and said to have been named after Mary Queen of Scots favourite horse.  White Horse has an intimate, inviting atmosphere and superb seafood. Enjoy with a Pacific Gin Martini! Our tip: Happy Hour £2 oysters Sunday-Friday 12-4pm.

2. Shuck Bar by Shrimpwreck at Brown’s of Leith, The Shore

Our favourite Portobello seafood shack is thriving in its second home at the uber-cool Brown’s of Leith, formerly an engineering works  and now a collaborative space for food, drink and the arts. Rock up at one of the shared tables at Brown’s and try out oysters from Barra, Loch Fyne and Lindisfarne with toppings like Vodka Bloody Mary and Beetroot & Woven Whisky. Get down there-it’s such a vibe.

3. Montrose, Montrose Terrace

A neighbourhood restaurant in a former 19th century inn, Montrose celebrates the freshest produce from local artisan suppliers and frequently offers delicious options from Scottish waters like Cumbrae or Lindisfarne oysters with inventive sauces like tayberry or blood orange hot sauce.

4. Le Di-Vin, Randolph Place

Pop into the lively Le Di-Vin wine bar for one of their oyster events, featuring live music and oysters paired with wine and champagne. The Oyster Man shucks them right at your table, adding to the fun. Spaces are limited and once the oysters are gone, they’re gone so booking is recommended, though walk-ins are welcome. Keep an eye on Insta for upcoming events.

Cosy Bars in Edinburgh

Whether you’re after a cosy city centre speakeasy, a hidden gem tucked down a moody, atmospheric close, or a neighbourhood basement bar, we’ve got you covered.

1. The Devil’s Advocate, Advocate’s Close

Tucked away down a historic, moody close just off the Royal Mile, The Devil’s Advocate is iconic! Set within a restored Victorian pump house, it offers close to 400 whiskies, a range of tasting flights, and expertly crafted cocktails. The bar, with its moody lighting and high ceiling is buzzing, stylish, full of atmosphere, and an Old Town vibe you’ll not want to miss.

2. The Last Word, Saint Stephen Street

One of our favourite neighbourhood bars, The Last Word is tucked a few steps below street level on Stockbridge’s St Stephen Street. Think dark wood, moody lighting, and delicious, super-inventive cocktails in a cosy, laid-back setting. It’s the perfect spot on a cold, rainy night, feeling like a real find, with creative, expertly crafted drinks. We loved the Kyoto Calling (gin, banana skin, fino, lime, miso, white cacao), and if you’re lucky, you’ll snag one of the seats by the fire.

3. Panda & Sons, Queen Street

Hidden behind a barbershop façade in the city centre, this speakeasy-style bar is quirky, fun, and known for its inventive cocktails. With friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, Panda & Sons is a great place to kick off your night.

Scenic Walks in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a stunning city for walks around buzzing neighbourhoods all with their own character but any trip here is made even more unforgettable by exploring the incredible natural landscape just beyond the urban buzz.

1. Calton Hill

Set in the very heart of Edinburgh, just minutes walk from street level, Calton Hill rises above the city to offer panoramic views across Edinburgh and beyond. It’s always been the perfect place to watch the sun set over the skyline, and it’s now even more inviting with a cocktail on the terrace of Café Calton perfectly perched at the top. Or simply stretch out on the hill and watch the stars appear overhead.

Calton Hill at sunset

2. Arthur’s Seat

Rising from the same ancient volcanic system as Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat is an iconic symbol of the city. A climb to the summit takes about 30 minutes and rewards you with sweeping views across Edinburgh and beyond, but we’d recommend setting aside a couple of hours for the total hike. Follow the hike with a drink at The Sheep Heid Inn considered one of Scotland’s oldest pubs, in the pretty village of Duddingston.

3. Water of Leith, Stockbridge to Dean Village

Take a riverside stroll along the Water of Leith from Stockbridge to picturesque Dean Village. Along the way you may be lucky enough to spot a grey heron or an otter. Once home to a thriving mill community, the iconic Well’s Court, built for mill workers, still stands here today. Continue along the path to the impressive Dean Bridge, with the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art just a short walk away.

4. Chessel’s Court, Canongate

Not a walk as such, but a delightful hidden spot just off the bustling Royal Mile. This quiet court is lined with elegant 18th-century mansion houses and if you look closely, you might spot the ivy heart climbing one of its charming façades.

Memorable Date Ideas in Edinburgh

Whether it’s a first date or you’ve been together forever and looking for some inspiration for something different to do in Edinburgh here are a few of our suggestions.

1. Pick Up Edinburgh’s Best Provisions and Go for a Picnic

If the sun’s out, nothing beats picking up some delicious treats and enjoying a picnic. Keep it simple with a filled sourdough baguette and cinnamon bun from Soderberg to savour in the Meadows. For a more indulgent spread, grab a baguette, charcuterie, cornichons and a couple of slices of the most delicious pâté en croûte from Lannan Pantry, fresh Scottish cheeses from I.J. Mellis, and a strawberry or lemon meringue tart to share from The Pastry Section or La Barantine-perfect for taking down to Inverleith Park on a sunny city afternoon.

2. A Spa Day

For a touch of indulgence, head to the rooftop hot pool at One Spa. Soak in the warm water, unwind in the saunas, steam rooms, and salt rooms, and let the sensory showers melt away stress -the perfect escape to relax, rejuvenate, and disconnect from everyday life.

3. A Night at the Movies

Firstly, for a special night with a touch of old-world glamour, book a film at The Scotsman Picturehouse. Hidden deep inside the iconic Scotsman Hotel (the former publishing house) on North Bridge, this intimate, art-deco-inspired boutique cinema pairs plush velvet seating with the timeless romance of the silver screen. Alternatively, catch a film at the much-loved, newly reopened Filmhouse, where the 100-seat café bar offers the perfect spot for a post-movie chat with a lively buzz.

4. Icebreakers

Changing up the pace, if you’re after a loud and lively spot for a high-energy date night, here are a couple of great options to try. If you grew up in the’80s or ’90s and fancy a night that brings the nostalgia and the fun, you could head to NQ64. The retro games bar is crammed with classic arcade machines and consoles, plus a bar and pizza from Pizza Geeks.  Located centrally, it’s open late every night and  perfect for letting your inner kid loose. Or, if a bit of friendly competition is more your thing, head to Lane7. From bowling and mini golf to beer pong, shuffleboard, pool, and darts, there are plenty of games to try out.

From elegant dinners and relaxed drinks to scenic walks or lively nights out, we hope this Dickins Edit guides you to some of Edinburgh’s spots for an unforgettable date. And if you’re a local, we’d love to know-what unforgettable place have we missed? Let us know in the comments and keep an eye out for it appearing in a future blog!

If you’re looking for more Edinburgh inspiration, explore our other blogs and discover what makes this city so special year-round.

Our Dickins’ homes from home make the perfect base for cosy stays in Edinburgh whether you’re here for a romantic city break or an extended work trip. If you’re planning a break in Edinburgh or looking for a corporate let or relocation, explore our handpicked homes and experience the city’s very best spots, Dickins-style.