Howies Restaurant Travel Guide

Free Guide: Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.

A brief summary of Howies Restaurant

Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.

Howies Waterloo Place is a celebrated Scottish restaurant located in a stunning Georgian building at the foot of Calton Hill in Edinburgh. Known for its fresh, locally sourced Scottish cuisine, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with attentive service. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Howies features classic dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties, seafood, and vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice for a range of diners.

1–2.5 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.5 Excellent · 2,856 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon11:30 am–2:30 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Tue11:30 am–2:30 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Wed11:30 am–2:30 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Thu11:30 am–2:30 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Fri11:30 am–3 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Sat11:30 am–3 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm
  • Sun11:30 am–3 pm, 5:15 pm–10:30 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
29 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ
Phone
Website

Getting there

Public Bus

Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 14, or 16, which stop near Waterloo Place. Travel time from Edinburgh city center is approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.80 to £2.00.

Taxi

A taxi from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Howies Waterloo Place takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £5 to £8. Taxis are readily available but may be limited during peak hours.

Walking

From Princes Street or Edinburgh Waverley Station, it is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and suitable for most travelers.

Discover more about Howies Restaurant

A Heritage Setting with Georgian Elegance

Howies Waterloo Place is housed in a magnificent Georgian dining hall, a building that itself commemorates the Battle of Waterloo. The space is bright and airy, flooded with natural light that highlights the original period features alongside contemporary Scottish style. This elegant yet relaxed setting provides a unique backdrop for enjoying traditional Scottish fare, blending historic charm with modern comfort.

Authentic Scottish Cuisine with a Local Focus

The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, seasonal Scottish dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Signature offerings include classic haggis, neeps and tatties, as well as a variety of seafood and vegetarian dishes. The menu balances traditional recipes with contemporary twists, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Scotland. Howies also accommodates vegan and vegetarian diets, ensuring a broad appeal.

Welcoming Atmosphere and Attentive Service

Howies is known for its friendly and attentive staff who strive to make every guest feel comfortable and well cared for. The service is generally prompt and professional, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere is cozy yet refined, making it suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual lunches to celebratory dinners.

Versatile Dining Experience and Events

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Howies Waterloo Place also hosts special events and private functions, including weddings. Its location at the foot of Calton Hill offers scenic views and a vibrant urban setting. The restaurant’s flexibility and welcoming vibe make it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on Waterloo Place, the restaurant benefits from a central Edinburgh location with easy access to nearby landmarks and public transport. The building is accessible and family-friendly, with facilities to accommodate a range of guests. Outdoor seating is available, allowing diners to enjoy the bustling street atmosphere during warmer months.

Commitment to Quality and Community

Howies emphasizes quality ingredients and a connection to Scottish culinary traditions. The restaurant supports local producers and maintains a commitment to sustainability where possible. This focus on community and provenance enhances the dining experience, offering guests not just a meal but a taste of Scotland’s rich food heritage.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 8am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 40% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 70% of the busiest month
  5. May: 80% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 90% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 70% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 60% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 70% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 6am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 7am: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 8am: 30% of the busiest hour
  5. 9am: 40% of the busiest hour
  6. 10am: 50% of the busiest hour
  7. 11am: 70% of the busiest hour
  8. 12pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  9. 1pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  10. 2pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  11. 3pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  12. 4pm: 40% of the busiest hour
  13. 5pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  14. 6pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  15. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  16. 8pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  17. 9pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  18. 10pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  19. 11pm: 30% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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