Contini George Street: Elegant Italian Dining in Edinburgh’s Historic Banking Hall
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Contini George Street is a distinguished Italian restaurant set in a grand former banking hall on Edinburgh’s George Street. Known for its soaring Corinthian columns, high ceilings, and elegant décor, it offers a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere. The menu blends authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Scottish produce, serving breakfast, brunch, and dinner with standout dishes like arancini and tiramisu. It’s a perfect spot for romantic dinners, family meals, and casual gatherings in a stylish setting.
A brief summary to Contini George Street
- 103 George St, Edinburgh, EH2 3ES, GB
- +443301649385
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11 pm
- Friday 9 am-11 pm
- Saturday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for dinner, especially on weekends, to secure a table in the popular and elegant dining room.
- Try the house-made extra virgin olive oil, sourced from Northern Italy, as a perfect accompaniment to bread and antipasti.
- Visit for breakfast to enjoy a full Scottish breakfast alongside Italian pastries and early cocktails.
- Reserve the private dining room for special occasions or corporate lunches for a more intimate experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Contini George Street location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Contini George Street
A Grand Setting Rooted in History
Contini George Street occupies a spectacular double-height space that was once a Georgian banking hall, designed with inspiration from a Florentine palazzo. The interior impresses with soaring Corinthian columns, ornate ceilings, and a massive central chandelier that bathes the room in soft light. Large picture frame windows allow natural light to flood in, highlighting the elegant architectural details and a striking baroque fresco on one wall. This dramatic and historic setting creates a unique ambiance that balances grandeur with warmth, making it one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful dining rooms.Authentic Italian Cuisine Meets Scottish Freshness
The kitchen at Contini George Street is dedicated to combining traditional Italian recipes with the best local Scottish ingredients. The menu changes seasonally to reflect fresh produce availability, offering dishes that range from classic antipasti to innovative small plates. Signature offerings include creamy arancini with Gorgonzola and Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh burrata topped with roasted Italian peaches, and a variety of handmade pastas. Desserts such as tiramisu and panna cotta provide indulgent finishes, while their house-made extra virgin olive oil, crafted in Northern Italy, enhances many dishes.A Versatile Venue for All-Day Dining
Open from breakfast through to late evening, Contini George Street caters to a broad range of dining occasions. The breakfast menu features substantial options including a full Scottish breakfast and Italian-style croissants. Brunch and lunch offer lighter fare and sharing plates, while dinner showcases more elaborate courses and a well-curated wine list focused on Italian selections. The lively yet classy atmosphere makes it suitable for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or casual meals with friends.Warm Hospitality and Professional Service
The restaurant prides itself on attentive and knowledgeable staff who contribute to a welcoming dining experience. Front-of-house presence, often including Victor Contini himself, ensures guests receive personalized service. The team is praised for their wine expertise and ability to recommend dishes that suit guests’ tastes. While the venue can be busy and lively, service remains discreet and professional, supporting a relaxed yet refined environment.Distinctive Ambience and Design Details
Contini’s interior design combines classic and contemporary elements, featuring grey walls offset by bright pink lampshades that add a playful touch to the otherwise stately room. The blend of historic architecture and modern décor creates a setting that feels both special and approachable. The space is well-suited for celebrations, intimate dinners, and casual socializing, with a separate bar area and private dining room available.Commitment to Quality and Local Roots
Operating for nearly two decades, Contini George Street reflects the Scottish-Italian heritage of the Contini family, who have been influential in Scotland’s food scene for over a century. Their commitment to quality ingredients, seasonal menus, and authentic Italian culinary traditions has established the restaurant as a notable destination in Edinburgh’s dining landscape. This fusion of heritage, atmosphere, and cuisine offers a memorable experience for visitors and locals alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
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Statue of King George Ⅳ
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15 Charlotte Square
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James Clerk Maxwell Statue
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The Mound & Mound Place
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Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
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Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
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Melville Monument
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St Andrew Square
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Experience the vibrant culture and historic charm of St Andrew Square, a must-visit destination in the heart of Edinburgh.
Lady Stair's Close
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Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Milne's Court
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The Writers' Museum
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Lady Stair's House
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Gladstone's Land
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Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
The Dean Bridge
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A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rose St
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A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Panoramic view Castle
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Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Assembly Rooms
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Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Charlotte Square
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Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
Heriot Row
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Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Ross Fountain
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A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Princes St
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Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Princes Street Gardens
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Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
The Georgian House
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Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Floral Clock
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The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
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Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
St. John's Church Hall
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Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Edinburgh New Town
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Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
One O’Clock Gun
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Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
The Royal Scottish Academy
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Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Essential places to dine
Contini George Street
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Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
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Badger & Co
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BABA
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Aizle
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Six by Nico Edinburgh
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The Pompadour
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Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Forage & Chatter
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Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
The Table
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Amarone
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Dine Edinburgh
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The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
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Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
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Amber Restaurant
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Purslane Restaurant
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Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Treasure Trove
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Mangue - The Gift Shop
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Scottish Design Exchange
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Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Edinburgh Gifts
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Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
One World Shop
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Great Scot
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ScotlandShop
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Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
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Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Greyfriars Art
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Those Were The Days Vintage
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Unicorn Antiques
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The Court Curio Shop
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House of Scotland
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Olde Edinburgh
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bramble Bar
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The Caley Bar
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The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
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NQ64 Edinburgh
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The Last Word
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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Lulu Bar and Nightclub
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Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Opal Lounge
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El Barrio Latino
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Garibaldi's
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Shanghai Nightclub
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Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
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PDT Please Don’t Tell
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Club Tropicana
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The Liquid Room
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The Bongo Club
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Legends
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Sneaky Pete's
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The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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La Belle Angele
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Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
