Edinburgh Restaurant Recommendations

We at at the Witchery, but that is fancy and right near the Castle. You would definitely need to reserve. We also ate at the Doric, which is a pub that has a nice restaurant upstairs and is off the Royal Mile but still close to the Castle. That was more moderately priced and won't require a reservation. That is probably more what you were looking for. We had delicious pork chops there.

Have you checked Creelers? It's within easy walking distance. I've eaten well there. Another place to check would be The Tower Restaurant in the Museum of Scotland. I've not eaten there, but it has excellent reviews. Also, it looks like there is a Stac Polly Restaurant that's a bit further, but not that far. My parents and I had a lovely dinner at the New Town version of this restaurant a few years ago. If you want to go casual look for something in the Grass Market. Or you could use this article from the Guardian. :) The Castle Terrace looks awesome. Actually, this whole list looks pretty incredible, but you need to be willing to spend some money. :) Check out Ondine. Pam

Had a couple wonderful meals at the Olive Branch.

Mussel Inn in the main shopping district on Rose Street if you enjoy sea food. As named, the inn features a kilo bucket of mussels.

I would agree that the Mussel Inn is great, but it's over in New Town, so not quite as close to the Tattoo. But if you are willing to look in New Town, many other options open up. Pam

Thank you for your replies. I love the online booking option for making reservations. I also found out that if your preferred time is not available, you can try calling there restaurant and have better luck. Slainte!

If you are looking for something cute, yummy and not fancy...then go to
bistro st.giles

Rose Street is full of pubs and is a .6 mile walk to the castle. You might try Dirty Dick's - it's as good as most and you can't beat having that name casually displayed on a souvenir bar coaster when you get back home.