Blonde Restaurant: Modern European Flavours in Edinburgh's Southside
Modern European dining with a Scottish twist in Edinburgh’s welcoming Southside neighbourhood.
Blonde Restaurant, located on St. Leonard's Street in Edinburgh, offers a modern European dining experience with a focus on Scottish-inspired dishes. Known for its attentive service, carefully crafted menu, and excellent value, Blonde combines a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere with sophisticated flavours. The restaurant features simple, blonde-wood interiors and art-adorned walls, making it a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Blonde Restaurant
- 71-75 St. Leonard's St, Edinburgh, EH8 9QR, GB
- +441316682917
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 6 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the lunchtime set menu for excellent value with two or three courses featuring seasonal Scottish-inspired dishes.
- Reserve a private room if dining with a larger group to enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Ask staff about dietary accommodations—they are attentive and knowledgeable about allergies and preferences.
- Leave room for dessert; the rhubarb crème caramel and hazelnut meringue nest are highlights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Blonde Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Blonde Restaurant
A Distinctive Neighbourhood Dining Experience
Nestled in Edinburgh’s Southside on St. Leonard’s Street, Blonde Restaurant has established itself as a beloved local gem offering modern European cuisine with a Scottish twist. The restaurant’s atmosphere is informal yet refined, featuring two adjoining rooms decorated with blonde-wood tables and chairs complemented by tasteful artworks. This setting creates a warm, inviting space that balances comfort with understated elegance, ideal for casual meals or special occasions.Thoughtful and Varied Menu Selections
Blonde’s menu showcases a confident blend of Scottish-inspired western European dishes, emphasizing quality ingredients and balanced flavours. Starters like mussels in a Thai-inflected coconut broth and warm salads featuring local black pudding highlight the kitchen’s creative approach. Main courses range from tender confit duck leg with bubble & squeak and pink peppercorn sauce to sea bass atop a crab, courgette, and chorizo mac and cheese. Desserts such as rhubarb crème caramel and hazelnut meringue nests with fresh strawberries offer a satisfying conclusion to the meal.Exceptional Value and Service
The restaurant is well-regarded for its excellent value, particularly its lunchtime set menus offering two courses for around £17.50 and three courses for approximately £21.90. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff demonstrating a strong commitment to accommodating dietary needs and creating a welcoming environment. Freshly baked bread and water are promptly provided, enhancing the dining experience.Community and Celebrations
Blonde has earned a reputation as a friendly neighbourhood spot where locals and visitors gather. It has hosted private celebrations, including family gatherings and milestone events, offering private dining spaces that accommodate groups with ease. The restaurant’s approachable vibe and consistent quality make it a dependable choice for memorable meals in Edinburgh’s vibrant Southside.Design and Ambience
The interior design is simple yet stylish, with a focus on natural materials and light tones that reflect the restaurant’s name. The blonde-wood furniture and art pieces create a relaxed and contemporary aesthetic without pretension. This understated style complements the food’s modern European roots and supports a casual, convivial dining atmosphere.Location and Accessibility
Situated in a quieter part of Edinburgh’s city centre, Blonde offers a respite from busier tourist areas while remaining accessible. Its location on St. Leonard’s Street places it within easy reach of cultural landmarks and local amenities, making it a convenient stop for both day visitors and locals seeking quality dining in a relaxed setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Innocent Railway Tunnel
0.5 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Historic Environment Scotland
0.6 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Meadows Compass
0.7 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.9 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Pont George Ⅳ
1.0 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Dynamic Earth
1.0 km
Explore the captivating journey of our planet at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh's premier science museum with interactive exhibits and stunning visuals.
George IV Bridge
1.0 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Wellhead at John Knox House
1.0 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
John Knox House
1.0 km
Discover the history of Scotland’s Reformation at the iconic John Knox House, a fascinating local history museum in the heart of Edinburgh.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Edinburgh World Heritage
1.0 km
Explore Edinburgh's architectural wonders and rich history at the Edinburgh World Heritage, a hub for conservation and education.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
1.0 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
The Chocolatarium
1.0 km
Experience the magic of chocolate at The Chocolatarium in Edinburgh, where you can indulge in delicious treats and learn the art of chocolate-making.
Unmissable attractions to see
Summerhall Distillery
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s first exclusive gin distillery in over 150 years, crafting award-winning spirits in a historic arts hub.
1 Summerhall Square
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh venue blending Edwardian architecture and modernist design, now a vibrant arts hub and major Fringe Festival site.
Summerhall
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh venue blending art galleries, theaters, live music, and festive markets in a vibrant cultural hub.
56 North
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at 56 North in Edinburgh, where expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Art & Craft Collective
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade arts and crafts by Edinburgh’s local artists in a vibrant, welcoming gallery shop in Newington.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich surgical history and groundbreaking medical collections in the award-winning Surgeons' Hall Museums.
George Square
0.6 km
Historic Georgian square blending academic heritage, tranquil gardens, and vibrant culture in the heart of Edinburgh.
The University of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Explore the awe-inspiring architecture and rich history of The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the heart of Scotland's capital.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.8 km
Experience authentic Swedish pastries and artisanal sourdough delights in a cozy Edinburgh café near the university.
Ballie Ballerson
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
South Bridge
0.8 km
Explore Edinburgh’s South Bridge and its eerie underground vaults, where history, mystery, and dark tales intertwine beneath the city’s bustling streets.
St. Patrick
0.8 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
Essential places to dine
Blonde Restaurant
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Modern European dining with a Scottish twist in Edinburgh’s welcoming Southside neighbourhood.
tapas3
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Authentic Spanish tapas with generous portions and warm hospitality in Edinburgh’s charming Southside neighborhood.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
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Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.9 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Rabbit Hole
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The Cellar Door
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Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
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Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Piper's Rest
1.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Outsider Restaurant
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Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Under The Stairs
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Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Tolbooth Tavern
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La Garrigue
1.0 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
La Locanda Edinburgh
1.1 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.8 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Galaxy
0.8 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Scotland Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Ragamuffin
0.9 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Real Scot Shop
0.9 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
1.0 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Wee Gift Shop
1.0 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
The Wyrd Shop
1.0 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
scottish experience cashmere place
1.0 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Fringe Shop
1.0 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Crest Of Edinburgh
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Mr Wood's Fossils
1.1 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
1.1 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
1.1 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
0.6 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
Captain's Bar
0.7 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.9 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Frankenstein
0.9 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Whistlebinkies
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Oz Bar
1.0 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
1.0 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Copper Still
1.0 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Cocktail Geeks
1.0 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
1.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
The Bow Bar
1.1 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
1.1 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
1.1 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Mash House
0.8 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.9 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.9 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
1.0 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
1.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
1.6 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Why Not Nightclub
1.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
1.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
1.7 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
1.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
