Best Restaurants, Must Try Places in Livingston

"Edinburgh native Martin Wishart has been cooking up a storm at his eponymous restaurant in Leith for the past 20 years and was awarded a Michelin star in 2001 – retaining it ever since. The classic French cuisine, served in a contemporary dining room, is mouth-watering perfection. Go the whole hog and plump for the eight-course tasting menu, which perfectly showcases Wishart’s skills, including exquisite dishes such as Black Angus beef, sliced pig’s trotter, squab pigeon and Calvados ganache."

"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."

"Never one to miss a culinary beat, The Kitchin redefines the nature to plate trend, rendering it less of a fad and more of a mentality. Tom Kitchin’s deep respect for seasonal produce when paired with his honed French cooking style, results in a desirable Michelin-starred menu overflowing with flavour. The garnish, of course, is the knock-out ambience and attention to detail."

"Tom Kitchin was the youngest person to win a Michelin star when his restaurant on Commercial Street was recognised with the accolade in 2007. The Kitchin prides itself as a place which presents "modern British seasonal cuisine influenced by French cooking techniques". They do A la carte menus along with sample set lunches and chef's surprise tasting menus."

"Walking into The Kitchin from the chilly Leith waterfront is like being wrapped in a warm, expensive mohair blanket. Comfort is the word that comes to mind—you'll immediately send that you're in very safe hands. Since opening this restaurant in 2006, Tom and Michaela Kitchin have been awarded a Michelin star, among many other accolades."

"We didn’t know much about Scottish cuisine, except for Haggis and whisky we couldn’t actually think of anything specific. Imagine our surprise when we discovered the plethora of vegetarian and vegan dining options Edinburgh has to offer!. It must be one of the most vegetarian/vegan friendly cities we’ve come across during our travels so far."

"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."

"Edinburgh has many Italian restaurants, but Civerinos offers something a little different. Situated beside the Royal Mile in the heart of the Old Town is has a great location. The interior is chic and understated with long wooden benches lit by large brass bell lanterns, and the plates are made of paper."

"One of Edinburgh's best pizza restaurants, Civerinos is home to a world famous selection of slices, from the classic pepperoni and four cheese, to philly cheese steak and delicious calzones. On top of that you'll find boozy slushies and delicious desserts to complete your meal."

"One of the best gay clubs in Edinburgh, CC Blooms is the Leith Walk hotspot offering live drag nights and cool cocktails. A place to show off your most colourful clothes, every night at this fun and inclusive venue is worth the hangover."

"CC Blooms is one of Edinburgh's most popular gay clubs, boasting live cabaret, thumping tunes and tasty cocktails. Open until 3am every day of the week, it's the perfect venue for those nights that you never want to end."

"This café is part of a volunteer-run events space that contains a performance and workshop programme. They serve vegetarian treats and meals and offer a genuine “human connection” according to reviews on TripAdvisor."

"Since opening Fhior in summer 2018, chef Scott Smith has been busy wowing food critics and putting his stamp on restaurant-centric Broughton Street. His previous project, Norn, down in Leith, was good—maybe excellent—but Fhior is even better, slicker, and more focused. Smith has a lightness of touch and just the right amount of everything: inventiveness, wit, and skill."

"After eating toast and cereal for 5 days, Hubby wanted a change of scenery and decided we were eating out for breakfast. Who was I to stop him?. The Caffeine drip is a quaint little restaurant in the basement, with a lounge/cafe on the main level."

"In this Old Town cafe, you will find everything you need for a good brunch without spending too much. Do not expect to find a place with hyper-sophisticated decoration, but very good quality products and great staff. In addition, they have excellent options both vegan and vegetarian, as well as gluten-free."

"Pretty cotton print frocks, brief, patterned smocks and edgy T-shirts from the likes of Eucalpytus, Yamama, Ruby Walk and Sugarhill. Certainly at the top end of the Cockburn Street price range, but still that little bit more affordable than anywhere…"

"Grab a cookie and hot beverage at Ben’s Cookies. I went to Ben’s Cookies every day while I was in Edinburgh."

"In view of the Castle and separating the Old Town and New Town, Princes Street Gardens are one of the most popular green spots in the city. Divided into East and West, they attract dog walkers, city workers and families in search of some calm and tranquillity on the midst of the capital. The perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day."

"The Edinburgh's park that lies nestled between the Old and New Towns is Princes Street Gardens, where you should definitely stop by to roam its grounds."

"Located between Princes Street and the Old Town, these gardens are a beautiful place to enjoy, and easily accessible from the city centre."

"Bentoya is a cozy little restaurant near the Grassmarket, and it’s a great spot for fresh, quality sushi at a reasonable price. I’d recommend the spicy salt & pepper squid and the volcano roll, which is beautifully presented, and topped with dried shredded chili. The sashimi is also excellent, and has a creamy melt-in-your-mouth texture."

"Offering Japanese food with Chinese, Korean and also some Scottish influences. They have most amazing selection of Bento boxes, with wonderful flavour combinations. The menu is extensive and good value for money."

"Average Rating - 4.67Total Number of Ratings - 9929Location - Edinburgh SouthAverage price - £££Review - My favourite salmon sashimi in Edinburgh!!"

"No matter the night of the week, Café Andamiro is always jam packed with people who can’t get enough of their authentic Japanese and Korean dishes. We recommend the Korean spicy ramen, or the bibimbap, but their range of sushi is also worth some exploration. It won’t be easy, but try to save space for dessert – their homemade treats will make you cry real tears of joy."