The Italian community in Scotland has ancient roots, dating back to Roman times, and grew significantly between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to immigrants mainly from Barga and Picinisco. Despite the challenges faced during World War II, Italians have made significant contributions to Scottish culture, integrating into society while maintaining their roots. Today, Italian restaurants in Edinburgh not only offer delicious dishes but also serve as cultural hubs, allowing you to experience a slice of Italy in the heart of Scotland.
As you stroll through the streets of Edinburgh, it’s easy to be captivated by its ancient buildings and Gothic atmosphere. But for a moment, imagine being transported to the streets of Rome or Naples, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of pizza chefs at work. Among castles and charming neighborhoods, Scotland’s capital is home to many Italians and, naturally, a variety of Italian restaurants. Edinburgh offers just that, with a selection of places that bring the best of Italian cuisine right into the heart of the city. Join me on this journey through Italian flavors, and together, let's discover the best pizzerias, restaurants, cafés, and delis in town.
Starting with the best pizzerias, we head to the Leith district, a multicultural hub and one of the most creative and ‘coolest’ areas in the world. Originally a separate port town, Leith became part of Edinburgh only in 1920. Here, we find Razzo Pizza, bringing the authentic taste of Neapolitan pizza to Edinburgh since 2019. This pizzeria has become famous for its handcrafted pizzas, made with passion, attention to detail, and high-quality ingredients.
Continuing along Leith Walk, the main road connecting the center with The Shore, we come across San Ciro's: the new project by Ciro Sartore, who brought his love for Neapolitan pizza along with some innovative ideas. With a lively atmosphere, San Ciro's offers creative pizzas such as the “Meatball” with tomato, meatballs, parmesan, ricotta, and basil, or the seasonal “Zucchini” pizza with smoked mozzarella, marinated zucchini, mint, garlic, ricotta, and fantastic ciccioli. Additionally, you must try the famous Pizza Fritta, a rare find on Scottish menus.
Staying in the area, you can also find Edinburgh’s best arancini (or arancine?) at Gaia on Leith Walk. This small café is a delightful mix of Italian coffeehouse and delicatessen. Run by a Sicilian family, it offers fresh sandwiches, pasta, arancini, salads, and a selection of Italian cured meats and cheeses. It’s the perfect spot for a coffee break or a quick lunch, with a welcoming atmosphere and service that makes you feel like part of the family.
Our next stop, not far from Gaia, is the historic Valvona & Crolla, a true institution founded by Alfonso Crolla in 1934. Still run by the Contini family, this shop is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Every week, they import fresh fruits and vegetables from the Milan market, ensuring top-quality products. Among the shelves, you’ll find cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, and an extensive selection of wines. But that's not all: their events calendar is also very appealing, as they organize tastings of typical Italian products and themed dinners.
