The Best Places for Scottish Breakfast in Edinburgh

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

The city promises scrumptious feasts for a range of budgets and tastes. Speedy refuels, hearty fry ups and leisurely boozy brunches are all part of the Auld Reekie epicurean experience. It’s the most important meal of the day, so make it memorable. Here are the top places to enjoy authentic Scottish breakfasts across the capital.

Grab a great-value fresh morning roll, or splurge on a pricier Pantry Fry for a loaded plate with nine of the finest artisan breakfast items. The Pantry is found in a grand part of the city, where the New Town meets Stockbridge, but it’s trendy-casual with an upbeat atmosphere. Owned by egg enthusiasts Charlotte and Chris Thompson, it has a row of outdoor tables that catch the sun and a family-friendly section indoors. Close relationships with nearby farms and producers ensure the freshest finest fare.

With an unassuming frontage just off the buzzing Leith Walk, Word of Mouth Cafe is a locally renowned gem. This hip, urban neighbourhood cafe serves great value, tasty food in understated style. There’s an earthy steampunk vibe, with funky tunes, friendly staff and an animated ambience. Seating is limited in the compact venue, with a few pavement tables in addition to the indoor ones. A substantial full Scottish is affordable and served all day long.

This converted waterside warehouse in Leith has a cosy, traditional feel and a large al fresco terrace. ‘Teuchter’ is a wry word used to describe a Highlander and gives a clue to the uber-Scottish theme at this local chain. Try Aberdeen butteries (Scotland’s answer to the croissant) with Newhaven smoked salmon, David Stoddart’s organic eggs, Stornoway black pudding and Ayrshire bacon. Or opt for a bowl of house kedgeree risotto washed down with a fiery Bloody Scotsman made with Sheepdip Whisky.

BBL, as it’s more commonly known, is a modern cafe on The Pleasance – an area that’s a hive of Fringe Festival activity in August and student land for the rest of the year. The decade-old eatery serves great-value Scottish rolls and fry-ups complete with haggis, Lorne (square) sausage and tattie scones. The cafe’s owner, Mandy White, launched signature vegan versions of these national specialities which have proved immensely popular.

From casual business meetings to mum-meetups and dates, this large and airy eco-friendly eatery in Fountainbridge is a popular place. The decor is minimalist and Scandi style, with orders taken at a counter displaying a range of tempting fresh-baked goods. Choose a full carnivorous or veggie cooked breakfast with gluten-free bread and potato scones made in-house, traditional porridge, or a hot roll (the latter option coming in at under a fiver). Breakfast is served all day along with an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.