The Cafe Royal

This regal oyster bar and restaurant is one of the top places to visit in Edinburgh. Designed by local architect Robert Paterson, the iconic Café Royal opened in 1863 and the stunning building was listed in 1970. The interior is a vision of Victorian opulence, with marble floors, gilt pillars and stained glass windows. Royal Doulton tiles depicting famous Scottish inventors adorn the walls.

In terms of tipples, you can choose from a variety of Scottish beer, ale and whisky, or from an extensive selection of wine and Champagne. The mouth-watering menus in the bar and restaurant feature traditional Scottish favourites such as Cullen skink with Arbroath smokie, and haggis with neeps and tatties, but the real speciality here are the oysters, with around 2000 served per week. Seafood platters including fresh lobster, oysters, scallops and langoustines, cooked in a garlic butter, white wine and fresh herb sauce, are an excellent way to sample Scotland’s delicious seafood.

The sumptuous food and friendly and attentive staff keep customers returning to The Café Royal. It is also perfectly located for visiting the city’s parks, museums and galleries. In addition, a famous scene from Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire was filmed here – you can even sit at the exact table that was shown in the film, if it’s available.