Quirky Restaurants for Hire in Edinburgh

In Edinburgh, prices of quirky restaurants average £35 per person. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Edinburgh, based on Tagvenue data from October 2025:

Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated October 2025), the best options include:

• Beer Palace at Brewhemia in Old Town - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘Had all the suitable AV, was funky and quirky, additional space for breakout areas.’

• Whisky Lounge at Hot Toddy in Old Town - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘There was plenty of seats and room and we were really well looked after.’

• The Loft at McLarens on the Corner in Merchiston - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘Great venue and helpful lovely staff. They made my birthday special.’

You'll find quirky restaurants in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Edinburgh, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (October 2025):

• In Edinburgh, the city's rich history and contemporary energy mix seamlessly, leading to an array of unique restaurants ideal for outstanding dining experiences. Here's a few great areas to consider when search for unique and unusual restaurants:
• Grassmarket and Cowgate: Nestled beneath the imposing backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket is a historic area with stunning streets and colourful buildings. This area, along with the adjacent Cowgate, is famed for its bohemian vibe and is home to a multitude of quirky restaurants and pubs. You'll find establishments that have turned old storerooms into dining spaces or those themed around Edinburgh's rich literary history.
• Leith: A district with a strong maritime history, Leith has undergone a big transformation recently. The Shore, in particular, has seen old warehouses and docks transformed into bars and eateries. It blends the traditional with a modern twist, creating some truly special dining experiences.
• The Royal Mile: The heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, the Royal Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. While it's a major tourist route, it also houses hidden gems and alleyways (known as "closes") that contain many quirky and themed restaurants, some dating back centuries.
• New Town: While known for its Georgian architecture and upmarket boutiques, Edinburgh's New Town also hides a selection of quirky eateries, especially along Rose Street and Thistle Street. 

• Private Wine Room at Gaucho Edinburgh - Tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh, the Private Wine Room exudes elegance. Located just steps away from the iconic Saint Andrew Square, this intimate venue offers a chic setting, perfect for those seeking exclusivity. Seating between 10 and 14 guests, it's ideal for intimate dinners. Once you experience the charm of this hidden gem, you'll undoubtedly yearn for a return visit. 
• Boudoir at Brewhemia - Step into a world of opulence and theatrical flair at the Boudoir. Nestled close to the historic Waverley Station on Market Street, this venue takes inspiration from the flamboyant Moulin Rouge. With its birdcage booths and great cocktails, it promises a night of pure joy. Perfect for cocktail masterclasses, afternoon teas, or an evening of karaoke, The Boudoir is also available for private engagements, birthdays, or networking events, seating up to 40 guests.
• Kimpton Charlotte Square - Located in New Town, The Cellar offers a unique space situated in the basement of stunning Georgian Townhouses. The venue features exposed brick walls, hanging Edison lamps, and exudes charm and character, making it ideal for weddings, parties, private dinners, small conferences, and board meetings. The room includes exclusive-use bathrooms, a built-in bar, and even a cleverly disguised pool table to keep guests entertained. With a capacity of up to 100 people, The Cellar is the perfect setting for any intimate gathering or special occasion.

Edinburgh's city centre is well-connected with an extensive public transport network, making it easy to reach the unusual restaurant venues scattered throughout the area.

The city's primary public transport mode is the bus, serviced mainly by Lothian Buses. Many of their routes crisscross the city centre, ensuring you can conveniently reach restaurants near iconic landmarks such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Scott Monument. The Edinburgh Trams also provide a modern transit system linking the city centre to the west, with a key stop at Princes Street, putting you within walking distance of many dining spots.

For those venturing from a bit further afield, Waverley Station, Edinburgh's primary train station, is centrally located and serves routes from across the country. Upon exiting the station, numerous quirky restaurants are just a short stroll away, especially around the bustling area of the New Town and the historic Old Town.

You might find the Transport for Edinburgh website particularly helpful in planning your journey, as it provides real-time updates, route maps, and schedules.