Eat in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has 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 child-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh, so you can plan your mealtimes around the city.

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

Website: www.tootsplay.com

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, and 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, spacious interiors with comfortable armchairs, a play zone, table football and two bars. This venue ticks all the boxes to be among our child friendly restaurants in Edinburgh.

Address:  73 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AU

Phone: 0131 629 3327

Website: www.bodabar.com/hemma

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. 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

Website: www.scranandscallie.com

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 traditional and 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

Website: www.reds4families.com

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 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

Website: www.vittoriagroup.co.uk/lafavorita