Edinburgh has certainly come a long way from the deep fried mars bar, (although you can still get one if you’re keen!) and now has a prestigious reputation as a foodie city. Offering everything from Michelin starred restaurants to cosy traditional pubs and artisan coffee shops.
At BabyBreaks, we have researched the best kids friendly restaurants in Edinburgh for you, so you can plan your mealtimes around the city.
Also take a look at our selection of activities in Edinburgh for the perfect stay.
Things to do with Kids in Edinburgh
Family Places to Stay in Edinburgh
1. Toots Play Cafe
Aimed at children under five, this play cafe offers a fun, stimulating environment for little ones and friendly, relaxed atmosphere for parents. The cafe is the brainchild of a busy mum who knows all too well how stressful a simple cup of coffee can be when you have a lively youngster! The large, bright play area space and fantastic selection of traditional toys will leave you safe in the knowledge your child is happy, so you can truly relax with free wifi and coffee on tap.
Address: 227 Gilmerton Road, Edinburgh EH16 5UD
Phone: 07798 901416
2. Hemma
A cool Swedish bar would not necessarily be your first port of call with young children, but Hemma has made a huge effort to make itself appealing to young families. It certainly seems to have worked, attracting lots of local mums and babies during the day and to its weekend brunch.
The outdoor tables are lovely in the summer, and inside you will find two floors of light. Also spacious interiors with comfortable armchairs, a play zone, table football and two bars. One of the best kids friendly restaurants in Edinburgh.
Address: 73 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AU
Phone: 0131 629 3327
3. The Scran and Scallie
If you want to push the boat out, you must pay a visit to this gastropub run by Michelin starred chefs Tom Kitchin and Dominic Jack. Traditional pub grub is elevated to new heights with dishes like Highland Wagyu Beef Burger and Dressed Newhaven Brown Crab featuring on the seasonal, locally sourced menu. Finally, children can enjoy their own menu and a lovely playroom – win win for everyone!
Address: 1 Comely Bank Road, Edinburgh EH4 1DR
Phone: 0131 332 6281
4. Red’s Restaurant
Just five minutes walk from Portobello beach, Red’s Restaurant is a relaxed eatery with a soft play area for toddlers and an indoor climbing frame and video games machine for older children. The food is traditionally fuss free, with plenty of options for all ages such as Mac and Cheese, Freshly Made Sandwiches, Baked Potatoes or Haggis ‘Neeps and Tatties. Definitely a great place to eat with children and among the best child friendly restaurants in Edinburgh.
Address: 254 Portobello High Street, Edinburgh EH15 2AT
Phone: 0131 669 5558
5. La Favorita
A crowd-pleasing pizzeria which has become something of an institution in the city, thanks to its traditional feel and welcoming, familial atmosphere. Children can also order mini-pizza or small pasta dishes. While parents can feast on a wide array of choices from risotto to steak, as well of delicious pizzas of course. If it’s your child’s birthday they’re in for a real treat – in true Italian style, the staff will make a huge fuss of them and get the whole restaurant to join in singing Happy Birthday!
Address: 331-325 Leith Walk, Edinburgh EH6 8SA
Phone: 0131 554 2430
6. The Storytelling Cafe
The Café is at the heart of the Scottish Storytelling Centre, which is a lovely tranquil place to stop on the bustling Royal Mile. Children can enjoy the Storywall and activity box whilst you relax with coffee, cake and sandwiches. Look out for special family friendly events for Burns Night, Christmas, Halloween and more.
Address: 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
Phone: 0131 556 9579
7. Joy Tots
A cafe entirely focused on creativity and play for children? No wonder Joy Tots a favourite with local parents. They serve a lovely selection of teas, coffee, freshly baked cakes and light bites, but the main draw here is the huge play are full to the rafters with toys, games, books, sensory items, dressing up and craft supplies. The kids will be in their element! There are also ample high chairs and space for buggies, as well as great changing facilities . All the things parents look for. Joy Tots also host a range of events throughout the week including story times, rhyme times, pregnancy yoga and baby & toddler groups.
Address: 117 Ferry Rd, Edinburgh EH6 4ET
Phone: 0131 554 8943
8. Finn & Bear
The newest offering from owners of The Pantry (located in Stockbridge and Dovecot), named after their two sons. Famous for their breakfasts, particularly their eggs benedict and blueberry waffles, their instagram feed is as impressive as their rave reviews. There’s a really welcoming atmosphere here – this is the kind of place where you can hang out all day. Come for brunch, come for tea and cake, to watch the rugby with a beer or to grab an early dinner for the kids.
Address: 58 The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RB
Phone: 0131 555 4636
9. The Fountain
This friendly modern pub near Fountain Park and the Cineworld cinema actively welcomes children, and dogs too. They are open all day from breakfast to dinner, for classic pub dishes and a dedicated children’s menu too. They run regular special offers and events like Kids Eat Free and Doggy Coffee Mornings! This kids friendly restaurants in Edinburgh is a great place to meet locals.
Address: 131 Dundee St, Edinburgh EH11 1AX
Phone: 0131 229 1899
10. The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
A short drive from Edinburgh’s city centre, youll find a light and airy restaurant within Dalkeith Country Park, where the highlight for the kids is sure to be the adventure playground. In fact it’s one of our top activities for children in Edinburgh. Not just a restaurant, The Restoration Yard also boasts a beautiful shop, deli, coffee bar and wellness space, so there’s something to please all ages.
Address: Dalkeith Country Park via Town Gate, Dalkeith EH22 1ST
Phone: 0131 322 2572
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