Best Diners in Calton Hill

"The lunch menu at Bell’s Diner has barely changed in 40 years, but why change a winning formula?. This cute little diner on the corner of St Stephen Street has been serving up gourmet burgers long before the likes of Byron got in on the act. Its steaks are also excellent and come with a choice of five sauces (go for the garlic butter), while the large hot fudge sundae pancakes are legendary in these parts."

"Housed in a converted warehouse and serving a menu that’s about as far removed from stereotypical Scottish cooking as imaginable, Tapa has earned itself a loyal following among in-the-know residents in Leith. Its take on Spanish tapas dishes provides a break from the norm: there are melt-in-your-mouth ribs, and the chef’s mother offers her own recipe for venison stew that’s not to be missed."

"With four levels of exhibits featuring everything from the natural world, world cultures, science & technology to art, design & fashion and Scottish history, a trip to The National Museum of Scotland offers a whole world of discovery for all the family. Start your visit in the beautiful Grand Gallery and marvel at the massive skull of Moby the whale; travel back in time as you explore the Scottish galleries; or why not explore centuries of creativity and innovation in the Fashion and Style gallery – whatever your interests, you’re bound to find something in this awe-inspiring museum to capture your imagination. Free entry, advance online booking required."

"If you are museum lover then this will be at the top of you list when looking for things to do in Edinburgh. The National Museum of Scotland is situated in Chamber’s Street in the old town and is a fine Victorian building that opened in 1866. The museum is free and is very extensive."

"On a visit to the National Museum of Scotland you’ll learn all about the history and culture of Scotland. Moreover, there are many antiquities from around the world including ancient Egypt. For the latest information and exhibits check the official Museum of Scotland website."

"Transport yourself to the Outlander set at Callendar Park & House. Callendar Park & House was used for one of the most well-known Outlander scenes as the Duke of Sandringham’s home."

"A gem within a gem, Bistro du Vin is a cracker of an eatery tucked inside the first-class boutique Hotel du Vin. With a knowledgeable sommelier, smart menu and chic décor, the set-up is seamless. However, the pièce de résistance is the courtyard, which is suited to intimate alfresco dining in summer months with divine seasonal nosh and innovative cocktails."

"L’Escargot Bleu is a slice of France in the heart of Edinburgh, complete with French staff, French decor, and an oh-so-very French menu. Open since 2009, this smart restaurant has award-winning chef Fred Berkmiller running the show, and he’s a stickler for provenance. This means only the finest Scottish, seasonal ingredients, all sourced from a host of top local suppliers, make it into the kitchen and onto the plate."

"As with its sister restaurant, L’Escargot Blanc, this cute little bistro is as Gallic as garlic but makes fine use of quality Scottish produce – the French-speaking staff will lead you knowledgeably through a..."

"This Grassmarket stalwart seems to exert a gravitational pull on small to medium sized groups of both locals and tourists looking for an impromptu food stop. Starters like sweet potato fries and macho nachos are decent enough, but their function is to…"

"130 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS or Unit 3 Omni Centre, Edinburgh EH1 3AA (there are four more Frankie and Benny’s in Edinburgh). Frankie and Benny’s do a bottomless breakfast from Friday to Sunday. “Enjoy free refills on your favourite breakfast dish when you visit us before noon."