Lothian Road was once part of Edinburgh’s renowned pubic triangle. These days the area offers something much, much better than sex … FOOD. So if you’re headed to Usher Hall / Traverse / Lyceum / or Edinburgh Filmhouse here are four of our favourite stops:

 

1. Bread Meats Bread

After numerous visits we can assure you BMB boasts some of the best burgers in the city. The beef melts in your mouth, and much to our delight, the gherkin, cheese and sauces are always in generous supply.

      

So whether opting for a classic Bacon cheeseburger or the more adventurous Lamburghini – with its slow-cooked lamb and pomegranate molasses – you will definitely not be disappointed.

Our particular favourite is the Black ‘n’ Blue, which combines black pudding and blue cheese. Though be warned: you might find yourself making what appear – to everyone around you – to be sex noises. Yes, it really is that good.

      

Another must: their incredible milkshakes, chocolate being the smart choice. Perfect in taste, size, and more importantly consistency, these too will invoke the odd involuntary gasp of pleasure.

92 Lothian Road, EH3 9BE
www.breadmeatsbread.com

 

2. Bentoya

Sadly, sushi doesn’t quite receive the love it deserves here in Scotland. After conducting a poll on this fabulous delicacy – which is in no way statistically accurate – most Scots say the same thing: “Raw Fish?? Oh no!”

F**king Peasants!!!!

    

So … assuming you’re not one of those people, you really must visit Bentoya. Mere moments after ordering, you will be awestruck by freshly made sushi that’s bursting with inspired flavours.

The Tokyo Roll – with its deep-fried beaded chicken, avocado and tempura flakes – is one of our many addictions. But believe us, this is a kitchen that always uses its powers for good, never evil. So order up large.

        

We also strongly insist you add a Chicken bento box to the mix. Your taste-buds will be delighted by chicken cooked in three fabulous ways: yakitori (skewers), gyoza (dumplings), and katsu (beaded & deep fried).

Long story short: we absolutely LOVE this restaurant!

13 Bread Street, EH3 9AL
www.bentoya-edinburgh.com

 

3. Dine

Whether you’re in desperate need of fine dining or you’d like a few cheeky cocktails pre-theatre, Dine is the perfect choice. It’s also incredible value when it comes to lunch, offering three courses for under £20.

      

Head to the bar, and you’ll soon be dazzled by the theatre – and flavour – that goes into every cocktail. Such as the Solitaire which combines peat whisky, sherry & plum bitters; or the Mercury Rising which counts amongst it ingredients Earl Grey Vodka, citric acid and mercury powder.

Meanwhile the food is just as impressive. We suggest you begin with the Duck foie gras with soaked sultanas & walnut, then move promptly on to the Short rib of Borders beef with barbecued cabbage and salt-baked celeriac. Both beyond delicious.

      

And then there’s the stunning dessert menu, which has taken such classics as apple crumble, flapjack, carrot cake, and chocolate brownie – and given all of them a fine dining twist. Full marks we say, we’ll take the lot!

10 (1F) Cambridge Street, Above Traverse Theatre, EH1 2ED
www.dineedinburgh.co.uk

 

4. Kyloe

As we’ve previously stated, few things can top an enormous slice of beef, cooked medium rare, and served with a red wine and blue cheese sauce. Which is why we’ve been in love with Kyloe for – we think – six wonderful years.

      

Mind you, gourmet steak isn’t the only string to its bow. An inspired and varied menu also offers Steamed mussels in Thai coconut sauce, Gin smoked salmon, and the rather exciting Scottish goat’s Cheese baked in Puff Pastry.

Thankfully their desserts are just as creative. Our most recent discovery is the Chocolate pumpkin cheesecake with caramel sauce. Outrageously rich, it’s guaranteed to leave you utterly satiated, and perhaps unable to walk.

      

We’ve easily dined here a dozen or so times, and NEVER been disappointed. Outstanding food, sumptuous décor, and a passionate staff make this restaurant hard to beat.

1 – 3 Rutland Street, EH1 2AE
www.kyloerestaurant.com