Italian is one of Edinburgh’s most reliable comfort cuisines, and the city has everything from tucked-away neighbourhood trattorias to lively prosecco bars pouring Aperol into the small hours. Whether you want a plate of fresh pasta after a day on the Royal Mile or a long weekend lunch with a bottle of red, there is an Italian table to suit.
Below are the Italian spots our readers return to, with the areas they sit in so you can pick one near where you are staying.
Where to Eat: Italian Restaurants in Edinburgh
- Nonna’s Kitchen (Morningside Road) – A relaxed neighbourhood trattoria south of the centre, popular with locals for classic pasta and pizza in an unfussy setting.
- Frizzante Proseccheria (Lothian Road) – A central spot known for its extensive Italian cocktail and prosecco list alongside the food, handy before a show at the nearby theatres.
What to Expect
Portions are generous and menus lean on familiar favourites – fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza and Italian wines – rather than fine-dining theatre. Prices are mid-range, with most mains landing in the affordable bracket, and both spots work equally well for a casual catch-up or a relaxed date.
Who It Suits
Couples wanting an easy date-night dinner, families after a crowd-pleasing menu, and anyone who likes to pair their meal with a good glass of prosecco. If you specifically want pizza, see the pizza picks on the main restaurants page; for a special-occasion blow-out, the fine dining guide is a better fit.
Practical Tips
- Book ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings, when central Italian spots fill quickly.
- Morningside is a short bus ride from the centre – handy if you want a quieter local feel.
- Frizzante on Lothian Road is well placed for a pre-theatre bite near the Usher Hall and Lyceum.
- Ask about the specials board; Italian kitchens often run seasonal pasta dishes off-menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best Italian food in Edinburgh?
For a relaxed neighbourhood trattoria, Nonna’s Kitchen on Morningside Road is a local favourite, while Frizzante Proseccheria on Lothian Road pairs Italian dishes with a big prosecco and cocktail list in the city centre.
Are Edinburgh’s Italian restaurants good for families?
Yes. Italian menus are naturally child-friendly, and relaxed spots like Nonna’s Kitchen suit families well. For more options see our child-friendly restaurants guide.
