Noto to be missed: Small plates, big flavours

Chef Stuart Ralston, after making waves at his other massively successful restaurants, Aizle and Lyla, took his experience from cooking in New York and funnelled it into Noto. Named after a good friend from his NYC days, Noto is Ralston’s ode to the kind of food and vibe he loved in the Big Apple. But don’t expect towering pastrami sandwiches or hot dog carts — Noto is more about that relaxed, shareable-plates energy that NYC restaurants seem to pull off so well. It’s casual, but the food packs a punch, mixing global flavours with the best of Scottish ingredients. Noto has Edinburgh’s soul, with a nod to the gritty, creative energy of New York. There’s something about the place that feels both familiar and different at the same time, forcing you to pick up on all the little magical details of Noto.

The vibe at Noto is just what you’d want from a modern restaurant. It’s small, seating around 40 patrons at once, which makes it feel intimate without being cramped. The decor is understated, with clean lines, polished wood, and a bit of exposed brick to remind you of that New York loft inspiration. But there’s no pretension here — just cosy booths, soft lighting, and an atmosphere that says, “Relax, enjoy your meal, and don’t rush.”

Whether you’re sitting by the window, watching the world go by on Thistle Street, or parked on a bar stool with friends, the setting feels casual enough for everyday dining but special enough for a romantic date night or intimate celebration. The open kitchen adds a bit of buzz, and there’s always that low hum of conversation that makes you feel like you’re part of a shared experience without the fuss.

Now, onto the food — this is where Noto really shines. The menu is full of small plates meant for sharing, which makes it perfect for a group looking to graze on a bit of everything. It’s ever-changing, seasonal, and clearly the work of a chef who loves to experiment but knows what works.

One dish you can’t miss is the buttermilk fried chicken with white kimchi and coffee. It’s got that crispy, juicy, comfort-food vibe but with a little kick that keeps it interesting. Then there’s the grilled fig with miso mascarpone and courgette flower — delicate, buttery, and just the right amount of fancy without being too much. The beef tartare is another hit, served with a pop of flavour from black garlic and potato rosti that takes it beyond your average tartare.

We’d highly recommend getting to try a bit of everything, from their signature North Sea crab with warm butter and sourdough to the pork belly bo ssam with ginger spring onion sauce and pickles, so best to come with an empty stomach.

Desserts are just as tempting, and the chocolate miso bar with hazelnut and salted milk ice cream is a must if you’re into those sweet-and-salty combos. Plus, the drinks list completes the menu: a solid mix of natural wines and craft cocktails that go beyond the usual suspects, meaning you’ll probably want to linger a little longer and maybe order another round of small plates or an after dinner night-cap.

Noto sets itself apart with its ability to be both unpretentious and adventurous. It doesn’t try too hard to impress, but it just does — whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or settling in for a slow, indulgent evening. Ralston’s New York inspiration is clear, but he’s made Noto feel totally at home in Edinburgh, combining that cool, urban edge with the warmth and charm of a local favourite.

You’ll find Noto at 47a Thistle Street , Edinburgh EH2 1DY. You can book your table with instant confirmation right here on Dish Cult.