The best Valentine's Day restaurants in Edinburgh to book

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and Edinburgh feels particularly well suited to the occasion. With its historic streets, softly lit dining rooms and natural sense of intimacy, the city offers the perfect backdrop for an evening spent lingering over good food and conversation.

If your plans are still taking shape, now is the moment to turn intention into something memorable. From elegant dining rooms tucked into the Old Town to refined spots in the New Town, the capital is filled with restaurants that know how to set the mood. Explore Edinburgh’s most romantic restaurants, where thoughtfully curated menus and welcoming service help transform dinner into something more meaningful. At SquareMeal, we’ve always believed that sharing a meal is one of the most genuine ways to connect.

Whether you’re planning a quietly romantic evening or something a little more indulgent, dining out removes the distractions and lets you focus on what really matters. No prep, no washing up – just time well spent together.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be extravagant to feel special. Sometimes it’s the ambience, the pacing of the evening, and the sense of being looked after that makes all the difference. Below, we’ve selected some of the best places in Edinburgh for couples seeking a romantic meal this February 14th.

The Little Chartroom

What: One of Leith's most romantic restaurants, The Little Chartroom specialises in sophisticated modern European cuisine, and has earned multiple awards, including the SquareMeal AYALA Female Chef of the Year Award in 2023. Settle into the candelit dining room, or perch up at the kitchen counter to get in on the action. Enjoy a three or five course seasonal menu, and pair with a premium glass of wine. 
Where: 14 Bonnington Road, EH6 5JD
Book now: The Little Chartroom

The Outsider

What: With its elevated position overlooking the Old Town, The Outsider feels quietly romantic without trying too hard. The room has a calm, contemporary feel that suits couples looking for a relaxed Valentine’s evening with a sense of place. It’s an easy choice for lingering conversation in a setting that feels special but unfussy.
Where: 15–16 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EE
Book now: The Outsider

Le Petit Beefbar Edinburgh

What: Set on George Street, Le Petit Beefbar brings a polished, city-centre energy that works well for a stylish Valentine’s date. The space feels confident and intimate, making it a good option for couples who enjoy a lively atmosphere paired with a sense of occasion, without tipping into formality.
Where: 21–25 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PB
Book now: Le Petit Beefbar Edinburgh

Fishers in the City

What: Warm, welcoming and quietly elegant, Fishers in the City is ideal for couples who appreciate a relaxed yet polished dining experience. The atmosphere feels intimate without being formal, making it a lovely choice for lingering over a thoughtfully structured menu in good company.
Where: 58 Thistle Street, Edinburgh EH2 1EN
Book now: Fishers in the City

Hawksmoor Edinburgh

What: Set within a beautifully restored historic building, Hawksmoor Edinburgh pairs grandeur with a cosy, candlelit feel that works wonderfully for Valentine’s Day. The menu style is classic and confident, and the refined yet unfussy setting makes it perfect for couples who enjoy a sense of occasion without stiffness.
Where: 23 West Register Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AA
Book now: Hawksmoor Edinburgh

Gaucho Edinburgh

What: Sophisticated interiors, low lighting and a sleek, modern feel make Gaucho a strong choice for an elegant Valentine’s evening. The menu is designed for sharing and indulgence, while the plush surroundings lend a sense of glamour that suits a celebratory night out for two.
Where: 4a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2BD
Book now: Gaucho Edinburgh

Tattu Edinburgh

What: Striking, theatrical and undeniably romantic, Tattu Edinburgh is a natural choice for Valentine’s Day. Set within a beautifully restored building, the dramatic interiors, low lighting and sense of occasion create an immersive dining experience that feels perfect for celebrating something special. The menu style is designed to be shared and savoured, encouraging couples to slow down and enjoy the evening together, while the glamorous setting makes it ideal for those looking to mark Valentine’s with a touch of drama and indulgence.
Where: 18 West Register Street, Edinburgh EH2 2AA
Book now: Tattu Edinburgh

Café St Honoré

What: Charming, candlelit and steeped in character, Café St Honoré feels tailor-made for romance. Its intimate dining room and classically styled menu create an atmosphere that encourages slow dining and meaningful conversation – perfect for couples seeking a timeless Valentine’s experience.
Where: 34 North West Thistle Lane, Edinburgh EH2 1EA
Book now: Café St Honoré

Duck and Waffle

What: Having originally found success in London, Duck and Waffle Edinburgh brings their signature city energy to the swish St James Quarter. This year, the glamorous restaurant has curated a special set menu for Valentine's, served on the 13 and 14 February. For £70 per person, enjoy canapes, like cheesy polenta croquetas with a complimentary glass of Prosecco, before moving through starters - like blue fin tuna tartare - and mains, such as braised ox cheek or mushroom gnocchi. Dessert is a passionfruit mousse cake or a chocolate hazelnut Paris-Brest - you decide!
Where: 400-402 St James Crescent, EH1 3AD
Book now: Duck and Waffle

From quietly refined dining rooms to stylish, atmospheric spaces, Edinburgh offers no shortage of restaurants that make Valentine’s Day feel considered and memorable. Whether you’re planning something low-key or leaning into the romance, the city has plenty of places ready to set the scene.