Outdoor dining in Edinburgh has become part of how people enjoy the city. Locals love it, visitors look for it, and when the weather cooperates, there’s nothing better than eating and drinking in the open air. The mix of historic buildings, leafy parks, and skyline views makes alfresco dining here special.
From rooftop terraces to garden courtyards, Edinburgh has a great selection of outdoor restaurants. Whether you want to sip wine with a view of the Castle or enjoy a relaxed meal in the sunshine, this guide will help you find your next spot for open-air dining in the city.
TL;DR – Best Outdoor Restaurants in Edinburgh
- Black Ivy, Bruntsfield – Stylish dog-friendly terrace overlooking Bruntsfield Links. Open all day for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Covered and heated for year-round alfresco dining.
- The Beehive Inn, Grassmarket – Historic pub with multi-level outdoor seating and Castle views. Great for classic pub food and family-friendly dining.
- The Blackbird, Tollcross – Cosy garden bar with colourful cocktails and casual bites. Perfect for a laid-back afternoon outdoors.
- Lost in Leith Bar & Fermentaria – Craft beer haven with outdoor seating. Dog and kid-friendly with great small plates.
- Society Bar & Kitchen, George Street – Central city dining with seasonal dishes and a relaxed terrace ideal for people-watching.
Black Ivy – Alfresco Dining Overlooking Bruntsfield Links
For anyone who loves dining outdoors, Black Ivy in Bruntsfield is one of Edinburgh’s most inviting spots. Our outdoor terrace faces Bruntsfield Links, where you can relax under the canopy, watch people wander through the park, and enjoy a meal that feels both lively and laid-back.
We serve from morning until late at night. Start your day with a coffee and breakfast outdoors or stay into the evening for dinner and cocktails. The terrace is covered and heated, which means you can sit outside comfortably in every season.
Our menu covers everything from light bites and brunch to hearty mains. The drinks list has something for everyone — from cold beer and crisp wine to cocktails that suit every occasion. Whether it’s brunch in the sun with your dog or a night out with friends, the terrace brings that local luxury experience we’re known for.
Book a table at Black Ivy and enjoy outdoor dining with one of the best park views in Edinburgh.
Photo from Beehive Inn
The Beehive Inn – Grassmarket Classic with Castle Views
The Beehive Inn is one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs and one of the few with a terrace right under the shadow of the Castle. The multi-level garden has plenty of space, and when the weather is good, it’s one of the busiest outdoor spots in the city.
The menu focuses on pub classics — think fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts — and the atmosphere is family-friendly. Dogs are welcome, and the outdoor bar makes it easy to settle in for the afternoon.
If you like a touch of history with your pint, this is a place worth visiting. It has been serving guests for over 400 years, and the views of the Castle are unbeatable.
Photo from Opentable
The Blackbird – Local Favourite with a Hidden Garden
In Tollcross, The Blackbird has a beer garden that feels like a small retreat from the city noise. It’s known for colourful cocktails, craft beers, and a relaxed vibe that fits every kind of get-together.
The garden is a mix of comfy seating and greenery, and heaters make it a year-round choice. The food menu covers everything from burgers to vegan-friendly options. It’s a great pick for casual meetups or laid-back lunches when you want to sit outside and enjoy something familiar.
Photo from Tripadvisor
Lost in Leith Bar & Fermentaria – For Beer Lovers
Lost in Leith, home to Campervan Brewery’s ageing and blending project, is an excellent choice for those who love craft beer. The outdoor seating area is simple but welcoming, and the staff are happy to recommend their latest small-batch brews.
It’s also dog- and kid-friendly, so it’s perfect for relaxed afternoons. The menu leans towards bar snacks and small plates that match well with the drinks. If you want a true local experience, this spot delivers a slice of Edinburgh’s growing brewery scene.
Photo from Happy Cow
Society Bar & Kitchen – All-Day Dining on George Street
Society on George Street has an outdoor area ideal for people-watching in the city centre. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the dishes are designed for comfort and flavour. You can drop in for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, and the staff are friendly and welcoming.
The drinks menu pairs well with the food, offering wines, cocktails, and coffee that make it easy to stay a little longer. Society’s outdoor tables are covered, so you can dine outside even if the Scottish weather changes halfway through your meal.
Why Alfresco Dining Works So Well in Edinburgh
The city’s charm plays a big part. Edinburgh’s views can make a simple meal feel like something memorable. There are terraces with sights of Calton Hill, streets lined with Georgian townhouses, and small patios filled with plants and fairy lights. These spaces make you slow down and enjoy what’s around you.
Many outdoor restaurants now offer covered or heated areas, so you can sit outside even when the temperature drops. Whether it’s a warm afternoon in summer or a crisp autumn morning, you can still enjoy fresh air with your food.
Tips for Enjoying Outdoor Dining in Edinburgh
Book ahead
Outdoor tables are some of the most in-demand spots in Edinburgh, especially when the weather decides to play nice. A quick call or online booking can save you from the waitlist rush — particularly at weekends or during festival season.
Check the forecast
Edinburgh weather is famously unpredictable. Even if the day starts bright, clouds can roll in quickly. Most outdoor restaurants have canopies or heaters, but it helps to know what’s coming so you can pick the best time to go.
Dress in layers
A light jacket or jumper can make the difference between cutting your meal short and staying for another drink. The city’s charm is best enjoyed when you’re comfortable enough to relax and take your time.
Ask about heaters or blankets
Many outdoor terraces, including ours at Black Ivy, keep things warm and cosy no matter the season. Don’t hesitate to ask — good staff will always want you to feel comfortable enough to stay longer.
Bring your dog
Edinburgh is one of the most dog-friendly cities around. Plenty of outdoor restaurants and pubs welcome pets (especially at Black Ivy), and you’ll often find water bowls waiting under the tables. Whether it’s brunch or a late afternoon pint, your furry friend can join the fun too.
Time it right
Late morning and early evening tend to offer the best atmosphere. You’ll get the daylight, the view, and fewer crowds than the lunch rush. If you’re going for drinks, aim for golden hour — Edinburgh’s skyline at sunset never disappoints.
Planning Your Next Alfresco Meal
Eating outdoors is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Edinburgh’s beauty. Whether you’re sitting under the Castle, overlooking a park, or watching the skyline from a rooftop, there’s a place that fits your mood.
If you want a spot that blends comfort, food, and great views, Black Ivy in Bruntsfield should be at the top of your list. You’ll find good food, friendly service, and a terrace that feels like a little corner of the city to call your own.
Book your table at Black Ivy and enjoy outdoor dining in one of Edinburgh’s most loved neighbourhoods.
