Ailish Buckley shares the best of Edinburgh’s restaurants, bars, and spas
Foodie and lifestyle enthusiast Ailish Buckley, known as @allthingsedinburgh, is all about uncovering the best of Edinburgh, from new restaurants in Edinburgh to hidden gems and relaxing spa retreats. Whether she’s sharing tips on the best new restaurants Edinburgh has to offer or showcasing new openings in Edinburgh, Ailish is your go-to guide for discovering the city. Here, she shares her favourite spots for dining, wellness, and mini getaways.
What are your top three must-visit restaurants in Edinburgh?
Here are two of Edinburgh’s hottest new restaurant openings that I’m obsessed with, plus one iconic favourite that absolutely deserves a spot on your must-visit list:
Cardinal
Cardinal is a truly unforgettable experience! Chill vibes and seriously, seriously impressive food make this new Edinburgh spot one to remember long after your visit.
Check them out on Instagram
Pomelo
For anyone exploring the best new restaurants Edinburgh has to offer, Pomelo is a must-visit. With hand-ripped noodles, rotating specials, and an immersive atmosphere, dining here is a full experience.
Find them on Instagram
Osteria Dei Sapori
This isn’t a new opening in Edinburgh, but it’s still my top pick for Italian food in Edinburgh. Run by Cristiano Guarnacci, the concept is beautifully simple, and the food is nothing short of exquisite.
See their Instagram here
If you had a free afternoon to unwind and treat yourself to a spa experience near Edinburgh, where are you heading?
For those searching for the best spas near Edinburgh, here are two incredible options:
Emily King Therapy
Emily’s sculpting facial is a game-changer! Her calming studio, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, creates a serene environment where you instantly feel at ease. This treatment leaves you looking refreshed and “snatched.”
Find Emily on Instagram
Fletcher’s Cottage Spa
Just a short drive from the city, this is my ultimate sanctuary—one of the most stunning spas and relaxation spaces I’ve ever experienced. Located at Archerfield, this luxurious retreat is perfect for anyone looking for spas near Edinburgh where you can fully disconnect and recharge.
Learn more here
Let’s say you’re in the mood for a mini getaway without leaving the city—where are you checking in?
When I need a proper retreat, I prefer escaping the city entirely. For a truly magical experience, Gleneagles is my go-to. It’s perfect for a year-round getaway, but it really shines during the festive season. If you’re looking for the best staycations in Edinburgh, Scotland, or beyond, this is a top pick.
Explore Gleneagles
Every city has its hidden gems—what’s one Edinburgh restaurant, bar, or experience that might not be on every tourist’s radar but totally deserves a spot on the must-visit list?
Edinburgh’s cocktail scene is definitely on the rise, in my opinion! If you’re looking to explore new bars in Edinburgh or discover under-the-radar gems, here are some favourites:
Lannan Bakery
Their pastries are already iconic, but the sour cherry cookie? It’s phenomenal (if you can get your hands on one!). Don’t miss this spot if you’re exploring the best of Edinburgh’s foodie scene.
Check them out here
The Burrow Bar
This is a fab new addition to Edinburgh, complete with its own Banksy! Their spicy margaritas are a must-try and cement their place among new bars in Edinburgh worth visiting.
Follow them here
Hey Palu
Another gem for cocktail enthusiasts. Their spicy margarita rivals the best in the city and is a favourite for those discovering new bars in Edinburgh.
Find them on Instagram
Flash and Ollie’s at The Blackbird
Big, indulgent hot sandwiches that deserve way more hype. A perfect addition to the best new restaurants Edinburgh has to offer.
See their Instagram here
Follow @allthingsedinburgh for more insider tips and recommendations on new openings in Edinburgh, spas near Edinburgh, and the best of Edinburgh’s food and drink scene!
