Duck & Waffle Edinburgh: A Playful Modern British Dining Experience
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is a vibrant all-day restaurant and bar located in St James Quarter, offering a playful menu of modern British dishes with a focus on seasonal, local produce. Known for its signature duck and waffle dish, this stylish venue combines quirky interiors with a lively atmosphere, serving brunch, lunch, dinner, and creative cocktails in an Instagrammable setting.
A brief summary to Duck & Waffle
- 400-402 St James Cres, Edinburgh, EH1 3AE, GB
- +441312022700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-12 am
- Tuesday 9 am-12 am
- Wednesday 9 am-12 am
- Thursday 9 am-1 am
- Friday 9 am-1 am
- Saturday 9 am-1 am
- Sunday 9 am-12 am
Local tips
- Try the signature duck and waffle dish for a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors.
- Visit during weekend brunch to enjoy a mix of indulgent sweet and savory options.
- Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the venue is popular and lively.
- Don’t miss the creative cocktails, particularly the Prosecco and Bloody Mary.
- Capture photos of the unique interior design, including the graffiti wall and mirrored walls.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Duck & Waffle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Duck & Waffle
A Distinctive Culinary Concept in Edinburgh's Heart
Duck & Waffle Edinburgh opened its doors in the bustling St James Quarter, bringing a unique dining concept to the city. The restaurant is best known for its signature dish—a crispy confit duck leg served atop a buttermilk waffle, crowned with a fried duck egg and drizzled with mustard maple syrup. This dish perfectly balances salty and sweet flavors and has become a must-try for visitors seeking a memorable culinary experience. Beyond this, the menu features an array of innovative plates, from deep-fried haggis bars with duck fat caramel to spiced ox cheek doughnuts and hispi cabbage with miso brown butter, showcasing a bold approach to traditional British ingredients.Atmosphere and Interior Design
The interior of Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is a feast for the eyes, blending maximalist design elements with playful, duck-themed décor. Visitors enter through a reception area adorned with graffiti art by local artist Amy Ireland, leading into a copper-toned mirrored tunnel and a bar shaped like a copper still. The dining space features glass tabletops trapping feathers, mirrored walls perfect for selfies, and TV screens displaying ambient imagery. The vibe is lively and modern, catering to brunch-goers, groups celebrating special occasions, and those looking for a fun, vibrant dining environment.Menu Highlights and Culinary Style
The menu at Duck & Waffle is designed for sharing and indulging, with a focus on rich, comforting flavors and seasonal ingredients. Small plates include cheesy polenta croquetas and sticky-coated corn ribs, while large plates offer options like 8-hour braised pork belly with chipotle glaze, roasted cod with beurre blanc, and a hay-baked rump of Scottish lamb. Weekend brunch is especially popular, featuring sweet and savory options such as barbecue beans on toast and The Full Elvis—a waffle topped with peanut butter, jam, caramelized banana, and Chantilly cream. Desserts are equally decadent, with offerings like baked Alaska with warm fudge sauce and waffles topped with deep-fried Mars bars and hazelnut ice cream.Service and Guest Experience
Service at Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is noted for its Scottish warmth and professionalism, with attentive staff who enhance the dining experience. The restaurant operates from 9 AM until late, accommodating brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night guests. Drinks include a curated selection of innovative house cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits, with Prosecco and Bloody Marys being crowd favorites. While the food is indulgent and sometimes described as rich or oily, it is crafted with care and attention to detail, appealing to those seeking a playful yet sophisticated meal.Location and Accessibility
Situated on the fourth level of St James Quarter, Duck & Waffle is easily accessible within Edinburgh's city center. The venue benefits from a lively urban setting with nearby amenities and public transport options. Its location within a major shopping and entertainment complex makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the city. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and distinctive style make it a notable destination for food lovers and social diners alike.Visual and Social Media Appeal
Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is highly Instagrammable, with its quirky décor, colorful plating, and photo-ready dishes. The mirrored walls, graffiti art, and copper accents create numerous aesthetic corners perfect for social media sharing. The signature dishes and creative cocktails also contribute to its viral appeal, making it a hotspot for those looking to capture memorable moments in Edinburgh’s dining scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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North Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
St James Quarter
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Old Calton Cemetery
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Waverley Steps
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Steps to Calton Hill
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Colorful Backdrops
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
