Broughton is one of Edinburgh’s easiest neighbourhoods for an unhurried meal. Its Georgian streets hold a remarkably varied collection of independent restaurants, with relaxed Greek cooking, seasonal French and Scottish menus, vegan comfort food, Asian-inspired small plates and a lively Mediterranean bar all within a short walk.

Getting There

Guests staying with Ben Cruachan can reach Broughton easily from both accommodation locations.

From Ben Cruachan Guest House and Ben Cruachan Rooms & Studios, 17 and 21 McDonald Road: Walk west along McDonald Road towards East Claremont Street, London Street and Broughton Street. Depending on the restaurant, the journey takes roughly 10 to 20 minutes on foot.

From Caledonian Apartments, Caledonian Crescent: Walk to Haymarket tram stop and take a Newhaven-bound tram to Picardy Place. Most of the restaurants are a further 5 to 12 minutes away on foot, either along Broughton Street or on the streets immediately north of it.

Restaurants

Spitaki Greek Taverna: A lively East Claremont Street taverna serving generous Greek dishes designed for sharing in a warm, informal room.

The Ox: A neighbourhood gastropub focused on hearty food, fresh Scottish produce, a strong drinks list and a much-loved Sunday roast.

L’Escargot Bleu: A long-established French restaurant and wine bar whose seasonal blackboard menu draws on carefully sourced Scottish and French ingredients.

The Olive Branch: A relaxed Broughton Street choice for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, cocktails and sharing plates with Scottish and European flavours.

Bistro Coco: An intimate, family-run bistro serving homemade seasonal food, carefully selected French wines and cocktails.

Holy Cow: A fully vegan café and restaurant known for substantial homemade burgers, freshly baked breads, seasonal dishes, cakes and organic coffee.

Lucky Yu: A lively cocktail bar and dining room for Asian-inspired dumplings, bao buns, karaage, skewers and playful desserts.

Nectar: A contemporary Greek-inspired gastro bar with Mediterranean sharing plates, handcrafted cocktails and a carefully chosen wine list.

Opening hours and menus can change, so check the restaurant websites and book ahead where advised.

Image credits: Broughton Place by John Lord, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. 30 Broughton Place by Stephencdickson, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Both images have been cropped and resized.