Aizle – Edinburgh’s Innovative Modern European Tasting Experience
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Aizle, located at 38 Charlotte Square in Edinburgh’s New Town, is a celebrated modern European restaurant known for its inventive, ingredient-led tasting menus crafted by chef Stuart Ralston. Set in the bright, glass-roofed Garden Room of the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, Aizle offers a seasonal, no-menu dining journey featuring artful presentations and complex, harmonious flavors. The intimate yet relaxed atmosphere is complemented by attentive service and a focus on Scottish seasonal produce.
A brief summary to Aizle
- 38 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4HQ, GB
- +441312405500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 5 pm-8:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-8:30 pm
- Friday 5 pm-8:30 pm
- Saturday 5 pm-8:30 pm
- Sunday 5 pm-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance, especially for Wednesday to Saturday evenings when Aizle operates from 17:00 to 20:30.
- Opt for the seven-course tasting menu to experience the full range of seasonal creativity.
- Consider pairing your meal with the wine flight for expertly matched Scottish and international wines.
- Arrive with an open mind to enjoy the surprise ingredient-led dishes without a fixed menu.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Aizle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Aizle
A Culinary Vision Rooted in Creativity and Seasonality
Aizle is the brainchild of chef Stuart Ralston, who has crafted a unique dining concept that emphasizes a surprise tasting menu format. Eschewing traditional menus, the restaurant presents dishes inspired by the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from Scotland’s natural larder. This approach allows the kitchen to innovate continually, creating multi-layered, balanced plates that highlight the textures and flavors of each component. The menu changes monthly, reflecting the rhythms of the seasons and the availability of local produce.An Inviting Setting in Edinburgh’s Historic New Town
Since relocating in 2020, Aizle has been housed in the Garden Room of the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. This space is a bright, airy atrium with a glass roof, adorned with hanging greenery and rustic wicker furnishings, evoking the ambiance of a large summerhouse. The setting strikes a balance between casual comfort and refined elegance, providing a relaxed yet special atmosphere for diners to enjoy their culinary journey.Exquisite Dishes with Artistic Presentation
The kitchen’s artistry is evident in every course, from delicate starters to complex mains. Dishes often feature unexpected ingredient combinations, such as pickled beetroot tart with whipped tofu and XO sauce or charred lamb with wild garlic emulsion. Presentation is meticulous but never contrived, served on designer crockery that enhances the visual appeal. The cooking style incorporates subtle Japanese influences and techniques like fermentation and foraging, resulting in a sophisticated flavor profile that is both innovative and harmonious.Service and Experience Tailored to the Discerning Diner
Aizle’s service is attentive and knowledgeable, aiming to complement the food with well-chosen wine pairings and a welcoming atmosphere. While some diners note a slower pacing between courses, the overall experience is designed to be a memorable, immersive exploration of flavor and texture. Guests receive an ingredient list before dining and a detailed menu afterward, enhancing the sense of discovery and appreciation for the culinary craftsmanship.Recognition and Culinary Standing
Over its decade-long existence, Aizle has garnered critical acclaim and several accolades, including multiple nominations at the Edinburgh Restaurant Awards and recognition in the Michelin Guide. It is frequently cited among Edinburgh’s top fine dining destinations, known for pushing boundaries while maintaining a strong connection to local ingredients and sustainable practices.Challenges and Contemporary Context
Despite its many strengths, Aizle has faced some critiques related to service consistency and value perception, especially regarding menu pacing and portion sizes. These elements reflect the challenges of maintaining a high-end tasting menu experience in a competitive dining scene. Nonetheless, Aizle remains a beacon of culinary innovation and a must-visit for adventurous food lovers seeking a refined and thoughtful meal in Edinburgh.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
15 Charlotte Square
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.3 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
The Dean Bridge
0.5 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.6 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.7 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
John Knox Monument
0.7 km
Explore the historic John Knox Monument, a stunning tribute to the Scottish Reformer, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious history.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.7 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Circus Lane
0.7 km
Edinburgh's most photographed mews lane—a fairy-tale cobbled street where Georgian history meets Instagram dreams.
Well Court
0.7 km
Experience the historical allure of Well Court in Edinburgh, a stunning landmark blending Victorian architecture with the beauty of nature.
Dean Village
0.8 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Dean Village, a tranquil escape in Edinburgh with historic charm and picturesque landscapes.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.8 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.8 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Milne's Court
0.8 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
0.8 km
Discover stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot that showcases the beauty of Scotland's capital.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Georgian House
0.2 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
St. John's Church Hall
0.2 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Oxford Bar
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.2 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Ross Fountain
0.3 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Panoramic view Castle
0.4 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Rose St
0.4 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
One O’Clock Gun
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
National War Museum
0.4 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Lothian Rd
0.4 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
Edinburgh Guided Tour
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
0.5 km
Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering iconic views, royal treasures, and rich Scottish military heritage in the heart of Edinburgh.
Princes Street Gardens
0.5 km
Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
0.5 km
Discover Mons Meg, the colossal 15th-century siege cannon at Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s medieval military might and royal heritage.
Heriot Row
0.5 km
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.
Essential places to dine
Aizle
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
BABA
0.0 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Badger & Co
0.2 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
The Pompadour
0.2 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.2 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Forage & Chatter
0.2 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Contini George Street
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Dine Edinburgh
0.4 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
TIMBERYARD
0.6 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Amber Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Table
0.7 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Purslane Restaurant
0.7 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.7 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Beehive Inn
0.7 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Scottish Design Exchange
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
One World Shop
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
ScotlandShop
0.2 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.5 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Great Scot
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Greyfriars Art
0.7 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Godiva
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Poundland
0.7 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
The Court Curio Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Panda & Sons
0.2 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Copper Blossom
0.2 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Caley Bar
0.2 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Never Really Here
0.2 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.4 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.4 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.5 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
The Bon Vivant
0.5 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Thistle Street Bar
0.5 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.6 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Grand Cru
0.6 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
