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Looking for 5 star dinging experiences on a backpacker’s budget? It is actually possible with a bit of research and precise timings. Keep reading to find out our secret to affordable fine dining in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh’s Affordable Fine Dining Restaurants
As a penchant for all things sparkly and glittery, my luxurious desires are halted as my purse strings are controlled by a true Scotsman.
As a lady who lunches, I’m frequently hunting down the best deals so my best friend and I can enjoy quality and unique plates without breaking the bank.
You can eat lunch at these establishments for under £30. Yes, you read that right. Up to 3 courses for under £30. Now I don’t know about you, but I’d say that’s a blooming bargain!
Wedgwood
Let me give you an example. Wedgwood. Award-winning restaurant on the Canongate in Edinburgh serves a lunch menu from 12-3pm.
You walk into this unassuming building and are met by the wonderfully friendly staff.
The modern decor suits the plating of the delectable dishes coming from the kitchen. Scottish and European cuisine married together ensures your taste buds are given a delightful dance.
Price? For 2 courses you pay £20.
Sweet tooth?
Then 3 takes you up to £25.
Am I tickling your fancy? This is only the middle of the road pricing.
Wedgewood also offers a takeout menu.
The Witchery
A predilection for opulence and history? Well, one of Scotland’s most famous restaurants The Witchery is just for you.
Be warned, pre-booking is an absolute must. In the shadow of the castle, you couldn’t get a more enchanting setting for such a glorious eatery.
And let me tell you, simply walking into this building with its sumptuous velvets, the dark corners where secrets are hidden, the wood where the stories of the past simply ooze out of; you know that you’ve just hit luxury and mystery at its best.
Yet lunch is served from 12pm until 5.30pm and 2 courses in this little piece of heaven, will only set you back £22; or 3 courses for £27.
Can I hear a gasp of disbelief? Get booking folks!
The Witchery By The Castle also appears in my guide on the best places to stay in Edinburgh.
Chez Jules, 3 Courses Under £10
If these are just a little too much for the other half’s wallet, then don’t despair, there’s still one more trick up my sleeve. A little piece of Parisian heaven in Hanover Street.
Chez Jules is my special go-to when I’m trying to butter up the banker, and yes it always works.
Serving lunch from 11:30 until 6pm you walk into this French bistro thinking that you’ve just stepped straight over to Europe.
You’re seated and brought bread, olives and salami – on the house.
The water is on the table – ready for you.
You’re brought the menu, written on a blackboard and the choice of 3 different items for the 3 courses.
You order, the chat and the atmosphere is cosy yet vibrant.
However, let’s get to the nitty-gritty, how much will you be out of pocket?
The 3 courses will cost you £9.90. No that’s not a mistype, under a tenner!
Chez Jules and The Witchery also made it on to our most romantic restaurants guide. Read it here.
Final thoughts
So, when you see this Real Housewife of Fife living it up on Instagram and enjoying 3-course meals in these name dropping restaurants, remember that you can too.
Edinburgh is full of these amazing bargains to be had if only you put a wee bit of effort in and have a look round.
About the author: Hi, I am Ruth. A Highlander living in Fife longing for the mountains of home but I can’t give up the delights of the big city!