Angels with Bagpipes: Contemporary Scottish Dining on the Royal Mile

4.5 (965)

Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.

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Angels with Bagpipes

Angels with Bagpipes is a celebrated modern Scottish restaurant located on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile. Known for its innovative small plates and seasonal menus, it offers a refined dining experience blending local Scottish ingredients with European influences. The cozy yet stylish setting complements dishes like haggis bon bons, smoked salmon, and sea trout, making it a standout for food lovers seeking authentic yet creative Scottish cuisine in an atmospheric Old Town location.

A brief summary to Angels with Bagpipes

343 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1PW, GB
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Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Luxury
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 12 pm-9 pm
Tuesday 12 pm-9 pm
Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
Friday 12 pm-9 pm
Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
Sunday 12 pm-9 pm

Local tips

Reserve a table in advance, especially for weekends or special occasions, as the restaurant is popular and fills quickly.
Try sharing several small plates to experience a variety of the menu’s creative Scottish dishes.
Consider the bar area for a more casual and cooler atmosphere if the main dining room feels warm.
Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions or allergies; the kitchen is accommodating and allergy-friendly.

Getting There

Train

From Edinburgh Waverley station, a 5 to 10-minute walk covers about 0.16 miles to Angels with Bagpipes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers without additional transport costs.
Bus

Several Lothian Buses routes serve the Royal Mile area, with nearby stops within a 5-minute walk. Buses run frequently, with fares around £1.80 to £2.00 for a single journey. Check schedules for evening service availability.
Taxi

A taxi from central Edinburgh locations typically takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5 to £10. Taxis are convenient for groups or those preferring direct door-to-door service.
Walking

If staying nearby in the Old Town or New Town, walking to Angels with Bagpipes is pleasant and straightforward, with cobbled streets and some gentle slopes. Allow 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
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Information Boards

Angels with Bagpipes location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Angels with Bagpipes

A Culinary Jewel on Edinburgh's Royal Mile

Nestled at 343 High Street, Angels with Bagpipes occupies a charming 17th-century building in Edinburgh's Old Town, directly opposite the iconic St Giles Cathedral. Since opening in 2010, it has become synonymous with contemporary Scottish cuisine that honors local produce while embracing European culinary influences. The restaurant's name derives from a beautiful wood carving in the nearby Thistle Chapel, reflecting its deep connection to Scottish heritage.

Innovative Small Plates and Seasonal Menus

Angels with Bagpipes specializes in small plates designed for sharing, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures. The menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest Scottish ingredients, with standout dishes including haggis bon bons with whisky sauce, tenderstem broccoli smoked over ricotta with chili and honey, and Scottish crab served with lemon and crumpet. Main courses such as sea trout with mussels and keta caviar, chicken breast with truffle and spinach, and ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce highlight the kitchen’s skillful balance of tradition and innovation.

Atmosphere and Service in a Historic Setting

The interior blends the historic character of its Old Town location with a modern, cozy ambiance. The dining area exudes warmth and intimacy, while the bar offers a more casual and comfortable space. Service is noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive, enhancing the overall dining experience. The restaurant also caters thoughtfully to dietary restrictions, offering allergy-friendly options and accommodating special requests.

Signature Drinks and Desserts

Complementing the food is an extensive drinks menu featuring classic and signature cocktails such as the Angel’s Margarita and Angel’s Fizz, alongside a well-curated wine list. Desserts maintain the inventive spirit of the kitchen, with offerings like rhubarb cheesecake with ginger biscuit and chocolate cremeux with raspberry and cocoa nibs. For cheese lovers, the Isle of Mull cheddar with oatcakes provides a satisfying finish.

Local Recognition and Dining Experience

Though no longer listed in the Michelin Guide, Angels with Bagpipes remains highly regarded for its quality, creativity, and authentic Scottish flavors. It is a favored choice for special occasions and those seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience on the Royal Mile. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and seasonal variation ensures that each visit offers something new and memorable.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Open daily from noon to 9 pm, Angels with Bagpipes welcomes guests throughout the week. Its central location makes it easily accessible from Edinburgh Waverley station, about 0.16 miles away. While the restaurant is cozy, it is suitable for couples, groups, and discerning solo diners alike. Pricing is on the higher side, reflecting the quality and creativity of the dishes, with small plates averaging from £10 to £15 and mains ranging up to £40.