15 of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants to try in Edinburgh
A recent survey placed Edinburgh second in a list of the most vegan populated areas in the UK (Glasgow came first), so you won't be surprised to learn that the capital is chock full of incredible meat and dairy-free restaurants.
To help you make the most of this vegan food celebration, here are some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Edinburgh, where you’ll find exciting dishes and plenty of choice.
(60 Henderson St, Edinburgh EH6 6DE)
The sister restaurant of Stereo & Co in Glasgow, Harmonium is a vegan gastropub tucked away on Henderson Street in Leith.
Established in 2017, it has carved out a spot for itself as one of the best places in Edinburgh to enjoy plant-based food.
The restaurant serves vegan versions of burgers, fish and chips and mac n cheese and offers a selection of cocktails that’s almost impossible to choose from.
It's reopening after the pandemic on the 19th of May, and they recommend booking well in advance. Harmonium has been sorely missed during the lockdown and they expect to be very busy upon reopening.
• Check out our review here
(42 Howe St, Edinburgh EH3 6TH)
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly Italian restaurant, Novapizza, does everything you’d want from a regular Italian restaurant.
With locally-sourced and well-presented veggie pizza and pasta dishes, Novapizza also has a wide selection of white pizzas for those that would rather forgo cheese.
You'll also find cruelty-free versions of meaty favourites such as Amatriciana and Bolognese.
(41 Lothian St, Edinburgh EH1 1HB)
This funky, tropical-themed bar and restaurant serves up American diner-style soul food that’s entirely vegetarian.
That means burgers, loaded fries, southern-fried seitan (a meat alternative), buffalo cauliflower and more.
Paradise Palms also has an extensive drinks menu, ranging from classic cocktails to sharing teapots, which presently can be enjoyed in their outdoor seating area, from 2-10pm.
(56-58 St Mary's St, Edinburgh EH1 1SX)
For something more upmarket in vegetarian dining, look no further than David Bann, which is reopening on Monday the 17th of May.
Moving into fine dining territory, this modern restaurant is situated just off the Royal Mile and takes inspiration from around the globe, with risottos, curries, cheese boards and an extensive selection of desserts.
(24a Hill St, Edinburgh EH2 3JZ)
Naked Bakery allows you to treat yourself, regardless of dietary restrictions.
One downside of being a veggie is that desserts often contain hidden meaty ingredients such as gelatin, and for vegans, sweet treats can be a minefield.
Naked Bakery takes the guesswork out of satisfying your sweet tooth with a fully vegan menu - most of which can also be made gluten-free.
• Read our review here
(2-3 St Patrick Sq Edinburgh, EH8 9EZ)
Having opened in 1975, Indian restaurant Kalpna is one of Edinburgh’s most established institutions for vegan and vegetarian food.
Utilising local produce where possible, the restaurant keeps many of its much-loved favourites from its original menu while introducing dishes to reflect contemporary Indian cooking.
• Read our review here
(33-41, Ratcliffe Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 1SX)
An animal-free cafe, wellness centre and yoga studio, Beetroot Sauvage is the perfect place to nourish your body and soul.
There’s an all-day breakfast menu, brunch and lunch menu, with everything from cooked breakfasts to healthy smoothies.
The cafe also claims to have the best vegan cheeses in Edinburgh.
• Read our review here
(34 Elder St, Edinburgh EH1 3DX)
This small, independent cafe in the heart of the city specialises in locally-sourced seasonal ingredients and everything on the menu is 100% vegan.
It offers up popular vegan burgers and sandwiches served with delicious chunky chips.
There's also a great range of vegan drinks and cakes, ranging from cheesecakes to banoffee pie and lemon drizzle.
(167 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DG)
With a cosy seating area adorned with fairy lights and the works of local artists, Seeds for the Soul is a great spot for vegans in Bruntsfield.
The hearty brunch menu includes avocado and seitan bacon on toast, sweet pancakes and a full vegan breakfast, while for lunch you can get cheeseburgers, hot dogs, wraps or healthy bowls. The cafe also offers a catering service for vegan and gluten-free cakes.
(13a Brougham St, Edinburgh EH4 9JS)
Bringing a "taste of Rome" to the heart of Edinburgh, Sora Lella takes the best of Italian cuisine - think delicious pizza and mouth-watering pasta - and adds a plant-based twist.
A friendly family-run restaurant in bustling Tollcross, SLVR serves up the kind of fare that's as familiar as it is flavoursome - ideal for those who are dipping their toe in for the first time but want lots of choices.
Sora Lella is excited to be reopening on Tuesday the 18th of May.
(23-25 St. Leonard's St, Edinburgh EH8 9QN)
Looks can be deceiving, and while The Auld Hoose may look like your typical local boozer from the outside, it’s actually a foodie haven for vegans.
This friendly Newington bar serves up a magnificent full vegan breakfast and also has everything from vegan-friendly nachos to falafel burgers on their menu.
Perfect for those looking for some hearty pub grub while grabbing a beer or a dram with friends.