Best French Bakery in Falahill

"What: Edinburgh-born Martin Wishart is one of Scotland’s most famous chefs and this Leith flagship (he has another restaurant on the shores of Loch Lomond) has held a Michelin star since 2001. It’s not hard to see why: neutral furnishings and thick carpets look sleek and suave, though everyone is here for the sophisticated French-accented interpretations of Scottish ingredients, best sampled by first timers from a tasting menu that might include Orkney scallop with Jerusalem artichoke and sweet potato. There’s also a great-value lunch menu."

"This multi award-winning restaurant is located in the historic port of Leith area of Edinburgh. Opened in 1999 by Martin Wishart, an award-winning chef and restaurateur, it was the very first restaurant in Edinburgh to receive a Michelin Star in 2001. With fresh flowers on tables and gentle glowing lighting, it certainly won’t disappoint with the romantic aspect."

"This Leith restaurant retains its one star, with the guide commenting on how it has become an Edinburgh institution. Photo: Restaurant Martin Wishart"

"A short stroll from the foot of the Royal Mile, Our Dynamic Earth is a hugely popular attraction that tells the story of our planet’s past, present and future. Children and grownups alike will love exploring exhibits like the Time Machine and Future Dome."

"A post shared by Mary’s Milk Bar (@marysmilkbar) on Jul 5, 2019 at 1:39am PDT. Step back in time and enjoy a freshly made ice-cream at this cosy parlour reminiscent of the traditional National Milk Bars, supported by the Government, that served the British public from the 20’s – 60s’. Mary is a Gelato graduate, having trained at the prestigious Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna, Italy and has worked as a chocolatier for the last five years – we’re impressed!"

"And it's Mary herself who still gets up to make everything from scratch in the morning. With that dedication and Mary's training in Italy, it's no wonder that Mary's Milk Bar is known by locals as the best spot for ice cream. The flavours also change every day and it's always a delight trying out their latest concoctions."

"Outside lockdown, Mary’s Milk Bar is unmissable for its fabulous hot chocolate gelato floats. For now, though, we’ll have to make do with her inventive artisan chocolates and cakes, packed full of ever-changing flavours. New for spring is her white chocolate, saffron and nutmeg bar."

"This award winning family run bakery has three other outlets in Edinburgh, and is a popular spot for afternoon tea. Serving up a selection of homemade cakes, it’s also a good lunch spot especially if you can grab an outside table on a warm day. Photo: Mimi's Bakehouse"

"Sweet, moist and beautiful to look at, Mimi’s cakes are reasonably priced too – on any day you might chow down on a raspberry chocolate brownie, caramel shortbread or Mars bar crispie whipped up on site. Soups, sandwiches and tarts are available for lunch."

"Walk along the Royal Mile and beeline it for Mimi’s Little Bakehouse. Here, start your day off right with what else, a lovely scone, or ten, since Mimi’s has some of the best scones in Edinburgh (not that I know much about scones as an American)."

"Hula started off in Edinburgh as a juice bar but has now turned into so much more. They aim to be an “island in the city” where you can come and relax while enjoying amazing food and drinks that nourish your body at the same time!. They pride themselves on standing by their community and source all their food locally – including the coffee which is roasted here in Edinburgh."

"Located on the West Bow at the foot of Victoria Street just off The Grassmarket you'll find Hula Juicebar. This is a terrific option for anyone seeking a healthy breakfast in Edinburgh. You'll find great big bowls of porridge, bagels, fresh fruit and loads of tempting beverages."

"Hula do an aaaamazing range of juices which as a juice bar you would probably expect. Although not totally vegan, still worth a shoutout on this list though as they did have some delicious and healthy vegan food on offer!. Think smoothie bowls, avocado and toast and sandwiches."

"Disclaimer: My meal at Loudons New Waverley was a gifted experience. All opinions are my own. Loudons runs two cafes in Edinburgh – the original on Fountainbridge, and a new spacious location at New Waverley, a development project with living space, hotels, shops and restaurants just off the Royal Mile."

"Pâtisserie Florentin is a charming little French café|© martin berry / Alamy Stock Photo. Paris meets Edinburgh at this charming little French café. Having been a fixture in Stockbridge for over a quarter of a century, Pâtisserie Florentin has had years to perfect its bicultural identity, doing so with great aplomb, whether it’s coffee and a pastry you’re after for a quick breakfast bite, or something more substantial like the moreish breakfast quiche or Belgian waffles."

"I used to be a regular at Cafe Florentin when I lived in Polwarth. This quirky cafe was just two corners away from my flat and I loved going there for some coffee and lunch. Besides being super cosy and friendly, this cafe serves freshly made sandwiches, wraps and soups, as well as delicious sweet treats."

"Just a short 10-minute drive from Straits Meadow, Novapizza is the first meat-free Italian restaurant and pizzeria in Edinburgh!. Their vegan pizza is made in-house with their signature dough and offers bags of different flavours. There’s nothing better than a few moreish slices of pizza whilst watching a movie in your accommodation and Novapizza offers light, tasty pizzas for a great price!"

"Novapizza meets all your vegan pizza needs|Courtesy of Novapizza. Novapizza is a small, family-run trattoria close to Stockbridge, with an atmosphere so cosy you’ll feel like you’ve come home. Be safe in the knowledge that the pepperoni and mozzarella pizza you have been craving is in sight (and is completely vegan)."

"A two story extension was added in the 1820s by architect William Burn, and finally a library was added in the 1870s. The interior is beautifully decorated and furnished in Edwardian style and features some beautiful works of art. There are regular craft workshops for all ages held in the Victorian kitchen throughout the year."

"Lauriston Castle has one of the most remarkable Edwardian interiors in Scotland, with elements dating back to the 16th century. Gifted to the nation in the 1920s, the beautiful gardens, which remain free to the..."

"The Palace of Holyroodhouse — usually simply referred to as Holyrood Palace — is the Queen's official Edinburgh residence and has frequently been at the center of Scottish history. Built in 1678, it was where James II and James IV were each married, where James V and Charles I were crowned, and where "Bonnie Prince Charlie" held court in 1745. When the Queen is away (which is typically 51 weeks of the year, as she's only here for "Royal Week" each summer), public access is permitted to the stunning Historic Apartments (former home of Mary Queen of Scots) and the State Apartments, famous for their fine furnishings, tapestries, and plasterwork."

"Often referred to as Holyrood Palace, this is the official residence of the Queen of England when she comes to visit Scotland. The ruins of the Holyrood Abbey are connected to the Palace on one corner. Despite its city-center location, the Palace of Holyroodhouse – set in beautiful parkland and overlooking Arthur’s Seat – feels a million miles away from Edinburgh’s hustle and bustle."

"Tucked away in Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Urbane Art Gallery is one of the most cutting edge spaces in the city. It covers a range of artists and mediums, but the majority of work has a hint of urban delight about it. Visit the gallery’s website."