
06 Dec 2024
Edinburgh boasts a delightful array of spots where you can enjoy tapas, blending Scottish hospitality with Mediterranean flair. From traditional Spanish small plates to fusion creations, the city’s tapas bars and restaurants provide the perfect setting for a social dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening out with friends or a romantic date night, these spots are sure to satisfy your cravings for flavour-packed, shareable dishes.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, Café Andaluz brings a slice of sunny Spain to the Scottish capital. With its ornate Andalusian decor and warm ambiance, this restaurant offers an authentic tapas experience. The extensive menu features classic Spanish dishes like patatas bravas, albondigas, and chorizo al vino, alongside vegetarian options and seafood specialities. Don’t miss the selection of Spanish wines and refreshing sangrias to complement your meal!
Ecco Vino combines the best of Italian cuisine with tapas-style dining. This cosy wine bar offers an impressive selection of Italian wines paired with small plates that highlight the flavours of Italy. From artisanal cheeses and cured meats to bruschetta and arancini, each dish is crafted to complement the extensive wine list. The intimate setting is perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet catch-up with friends.
While primarily known for its cocktails and live music, The Voodoo Rooms also offers a delightful tapas menu. Set in a stunning baroque-style venue, this spot combines entertainment with excellent food. The small plates menu features a mix of Scottish and international flavours, perfect for sharing while enjoying one of the expertly crafted cocktails or catching a live performance. Menu highlights include salty pardon peppers and the corn ‘ribs’ topped with jalapeño mayo, coriander and parmesan.
Cadiz brings the flavours of coastal Spain to Edinburgh. Specialising in seafood tapas, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. From classic crisp-fried calamari with sea salt and smoked paprika aioli, to ‘Gambones Salteadas’ (butterflied and spiced shell-on king prawns with garlic, lemon and parsley butter sauce), Cadiz is a must-visit for fish lovers. The elegant interior and knowledgeable staff create a sophisticated atmosphere for your tapas adventure.
Fin & Grape offers a contemporary twist on tapas-style dining. This neighbourhood gem in Bruntsfield serves up a constantly changing menu of creative sharing dishes (like smoked haddock croquettas with curry mayo and barbecued yellow peach with ricotta and green beans) designed to complement the extensive wine selection. The emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients ensures a fresh and exciting meal with every visit.
Overlooking the Water of Leith, Season Quayside offers tapas with a view. This charming restaurant combines Scottish produce with Mediterranean cooking techniques to create a unique small plates tapas menu. From seafood caught in nearby waters to locally sourced meats and vegetables, each dish showcases the best of Scotland’s larder. The waterfront location and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal with friends.
For something a bit different, Mother India’s Cafe offers Indian-inspired tapas dishes! This popular spot serves up a variety of traditional Indian dishes in smaller portions, perfect for sharing and trying multiple flavours. From classic butter chicken and spicy lamb chops to vegetarian delights like chana daal and saag paneer, the menu presents a tantalising tour of Indian cuisine.
Little Rascal brings a modern, relaxed approach to tapas dining in Edinburgh. This cosy wine bar and small plates restaurant offers a menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients and celebrates simplicity. With an emphasis on natural and low-intervention wines, Little Rascal pairs its Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an exciting selection of bottles from around the world (including plenty from Spain!). The intimate setting and knowledgeable staff make it perfect for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.