The Palmerston

The Palmerston has quickly become a go-to for Edinburgh locals who want quality without pretension. The space itself is lovely—sage-green walls, a painting by Stewart Swan, and a layout that works for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. What really sets it apart is the food philosophy: they buy whole animals, make their own bread, and source from local farms like Phantassie. The sourdough alone is worth the trip, but don't skip the pig's head croquettes or the pickled mackerel—both are inventive without trying too hard.

Service is friendly and knowledgeable, and the staff clearly care about what they're serving. It's not fancy in the traditional sense, but there's a confidence in the cooking that makes you want to keep coming back. The cocktail program is equally straightforward—no sugar bombs here, just well-made drinks that complement the food. It's one of those places where you can grab a coffee in the morning, lunch at noon, or a proper dinner at night, and each visit feels fresh.