Healthy

Hendersons

Best for: local, seasonal ingredients

An Edinburgh institution, Hendersons was opened in 1962 by Janet Henderson, before sadly closing its doors in 2020. However, continuing the legacy of producing wholesome vegan and vegetarian food made with fresh, organic, local and sustainable produce, Janet’s grandson, Barrie reopened a new restaurant in September 2021.

Now located in Edinburgh’s Bruntsfield, the all-day menus reflect a modern approach to the vegetarian and vegan dining experience. Returning customers, eager to see their favourite dishes, like the famous Hendersons haggis and classic salad plates, won’t be disappointed. But expect new exciting dishes as well, including starter of pumpkin and blue murder cheese ravioli with browned butter, crispy sage and toasted pumpkin seeds, and a dessert of buckwheat, pistachio and brambles s’more cake with white chocolate and whisky sauce.

7-13 Barclay Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4HW

Seeds for the Soul

Best for: Vegan-friendly indulgence

Seeds for the Soul have built up a cult following in Bruntsfield since they opened in early 2018. This cosy café is all about the plant-based dining, with absolutely no animal products in their menu whatsoever. Enjoy a tasty meat-free twist on the classic caesar salad or give yourself an energy boost with their sweet gluten-free chocolate fudge balls. 

If you would prefer some more indulgent options, treat yourself to their yummy full vegan cooked breakfast, or a slice of their belly-busting cake, which are available in a range of different flavours each day including victoria sponge, choc-mint and biscoff. 

167 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DG 

Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery

Best for: Colourful and bright smoothies

You'll find the fun and colourful Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery at the foot of the historic Victoria Street in the Grassmarket area of the city. Walking in you feel like you should be donning your shorts and t-shirt! This tropical style juice bar designed by Jaco & Co is echoed through their jungle wallpaper and wooden floors. The enticement starts straight away with a chalkboard full of their popular fresh juices and smoothies. Choose to sit inside to enjoy a friendly and speedy table service, sit outside to enjoy the views of the old town or take your smoothie to go and sit under the imposing Edinburgh Castle.

Try their delicious acai bowls, served in coconut shells these beautifully composed bowls of tasty ingredients are filled with nutritional delights that are sure to set you up for the day. Pair that with their Ginger Jack Juice with added energy shot, guaranteed to give you that extra morning zing.

103-105 West Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2JP  

94A Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 9QA 

 Union of Genius

Best for: A big comforting bowl of soup

If you love soup, this is the place to go. The folks at Union of Genius have a tasty adventurous menu that changes daily depending on what ingredients are in season. With a delicious ever changing menu with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, alongside freshly baked bread you couldn't ask for a tastier healthier lunch. 

Can't decide what to have? Order a "soup flight" - which allows you try three of their soup flavours. Or why not get a big helping served in one of their bread bowls? You can eat the last drop out of the bowl meaning zero waste! 

8 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QN 

The Pantry

[Image: Claire Fleck]

Best for: Healthy family-friendly dining

The Pantry is a country rustic-style place tucked away in Stockbridge with a strong focus on organically sourced ingredients. it's a great place for parents to bring their kids as they have a designated play area, giving parents a chance to entertain their kids’ out-with their homes while enjoying lovely healthy foods!

1 North, N W Circus Pl, Edinburgh, EH3 6ST 

10 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1LT

Tupiniquim

[Image: Tupiniquim]

Best for: Delicious gluten-free street food

Walking along Middle Meadow Walk, you may be drawn to the little Police Box on the corner with a lovely aroma of crepes - which also happen to be very delicious and healthy! Tupiniquim use their own special blend of gluten free flour, which is so special that they bag it and sell it from their little kiosk.

For a satisfying and savoury treat, why not try the butternut squash, spinach and sundried tomato crepe, with a bit of optional cheese? This is a great street food pit stop in the Old Town. 

Green Police Box, Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9AU 

Urban Angel

Best for: Healthy and delicious brunch

Pop down to Urban Angel's bright basement café on Hanover Street where you can get brunch with gluten free options and healthy choices. Be transported to the Middle East with their authentic falafel sandwich, or for a sweet and healthy boost, the raw cocao smoothie is also a fantastic option. 

121 Hanover Street, EH2 1DJ 

From afternoon tea to fine dining, eat in out in style in Edinburgh. For more suggestions on where to satisfy your taste buds, have a look at our Guide to Food & Drink in Edinburgh >