Despite being a culinary hub, the dining world of Edinburgh can feel inaccessible to students. Unfortunately, the expense of eating out is a barrier for many. It doesn’t matter how local the ingredients are, or how ambient the atmosphere is — sometimes it just isn’t in the weekly budget.
However, every March, the city runs a scheme called ‘Eat Out Edinburgh’ where businesses offer deals and discounts for diners. This year is the festival’s biggest yet, with almost 60 restaurants partaking.
So, what’s on offer? If you’re in the mood for a dainty brunch, check out the 2-for-1 afternoon teas at the Scottish National Gallery’s café and restaurant, or the Willow Tea Rooms, which is offering 15 per cent off their afternoon teas. Or, for a mid-day sweet fix, exploit the 20 per cent off at Frederick Street’s Coro The Chocolate Café on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
If pizza is on your mind, turn to Franco Manca for a £19.50pp set menu, or the newly-opened Paesano on George Street where any pizza over £10 is available for just £10. If you want a heartier sit-down meal with the ambrosial aromas of Bombay, Dishoom is offering a set menu at £29pp, or the Indian Lounge at £32pp. While still on the pricey side, these discounts are significant and make these gustatory experiences a more accessible treat.
Plus, for the first time, the organisers of Eat Out Edinburgh have introduced an opportunity for people who redeem three or more offers to be entered into a prize draw. Participants have the chance to win a three-course dinner at Wind in the Willows-inspired Badger & Co; a Rodízio-style meal for four at Rio Brazilian Steakhouse; or a boozy brunch at cocktail hotspot Copper Blossom.
Search ‘Eat Out Edinburgh 2026’ to see all of the amazing deals on offer. Before visiting any of these culinary havens, make sure to double check the times each promotion is valid for, and whether it must be booked online to count. Other than that, bon appétit!
Image provided by Mattie Thomas for The Student.