Ka Pao Edinburgh

The food

The cooking is influenced by South East Asia, and the name plays on the Thai word for holy basil. Dishes are built for sharing across the table, with bright, herb-led flavours and aromatic cocktails to match. It is a good choice for a group that wants to order plenty and pass plates around rather than settle on one main each. Vegetarians and anyone with dietary needs should mention them when booking, as many dishes are made for the whole table.

The space

The Edinburgh restaurant occupies around 3,400 sq ft on Level 4 of St James Quarter, with outlooks over St James Square and the W hotel. Being inside the shopping centre makes it straightforward to reach from Princes Street, Waverley and the bus station, and handy on a wet evening.

When to go

Book ahead for evenings and weekends; the restaurant takes enquiries by phone and email. The Scott Monument and the east end of Princes Street are a few minutes away if you want a stroll first, and the Balmoral and Guildford Arms are close by for a drink afterwards. Lunch is a quieter option if you are shopping in the centre and want a break from the crowds below.

Highlights

• South East Asian-influenced sharing plates
• Level 4 of St James Quarter, overlooking St James Square
• From the team behind Glasgow's Ox and Finch
• Aromatic, herb-led cocktail list

Good to know

• Contact the restaurant on 0131 385 1040 or edinburgh@ka-pao.com for bookings and dietary questions.
• The restaurant is inside St James Quarter, so access is via the centre.

Frequently asked questions