Dishoom Edinburgh

The Edinburgh story

Each Dishoom has its own theme, and the Edinburgh café pays tribute to Patrick Geddes, the botanist, sociologist and town planner who worked in Bombay. The idea is that Geddes, having sat in an Irani café in Bombay, imagined one in his home city. The result is a big, warm, all-day room on the corner of St Andrew Square.

What to eat

Breakfast is a strong reason to come: the bacon naan roll is the famous order, alongside the Big Bombay and kejriwal. Later in the day the House Black Daal, pau bhaji, gunpowder potatoes and the Edinburgh special salli boti are good bets. There are vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menus, and halal-friendly options. The bar serves cocktails such as Chai Punch while you wait.

Beating the queue

There is usually little or no wait at breakfast and lunch. After 6pm and at weekends, expect 30 minutes to an hour, with complimentary chai while you queue. Groups of any size can book during the day; in the evening only groups of six or more can reserve. Breakfast or a late lunch is the easiest time to walk straight in, and the corner position makes it simple to find from Princes Street or the tram stop on St Andrew Square.

Highlights

• Bombay-style café open from breakfast to late
• Edinburgh theme honours Patrick Geddes
• Famous bacon naan roll at breakfast
• Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menus
• Bar for drinks while you wait

Good to know

• Most tables are for walk-ins; after 6pm only groups of six or more can book.
• Evening and weekend queues can run 30 minutes to an hour; chai is offered while you wait.
• Step-free access to the front door, with loos on the dining floor.
• Some outdoor seating.

Frequently asked questions