The Outsider has been sitting in its prime location for twenty years. Very cool when it opened, it is less trendy these days and oft-forgotten but reliably pleasurable – thanks in no small part to its enchanting views out the back window. It is worth calling to book ahead in the hope of nabbing one of the coveted window seats that look out over the city’s rooftops to Edinburgh Castle.

The Outsider is one of the best romantic restaurants in Edinburgh's Old Town, luring in the city's trendiest couples for fabulous feasts in a laid-back, minimalist space with views of Edinburgh Castle. But don't let the simple decor fool you, this place is all about stand-out food, whipping up a weekly changing menu of European-style cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients; the roasted butternut squash with fennel salt, chorizo and tofu is certainly worth the visit. Wine is also expertly executed here, with red, white and Champagne lovers all catered for.

One of the locals’ favorite food venues in the city, The Outsider Restaurant is a typical French bistro with a laid-back atmosphere that most customers love. Located on the historic George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Outsider Restaurant is a wine bar that offers a classic and varied menu, which changes regularly. With new specials, cocktails, puddings, and cuisines, it’s no wonder both locals and tourists keep coming back for more.

It’s a buzzing scene within this restaurant, a rare meeting ground between the city’s students, young professionals and date nights. With a down-to-earth menu, in which the day’s specials are scribbled underneath the usual offerings, and a relaxed and sophisticated ambiance, the Outsider is something of a badly kept secret amongst those who live there. A recommendation to one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh is whispered, not screamed.

Stuart Ralston’s New Town follow-up to Aizle combines a “cool, NY-style vibe with Asian-inspired plates” (and is named after a former NY roomate of his); by all accounts it’s a “fun place to be” (if “a little dark as a space”), particularly for those who “love small plates” that are “absolutely delicious” too (“you could feel the care and passion from the kitchen”).

The Outsider, despite its name, looks fairly modest from the outside, but once you’re inside you’ll find a restaurant with a lively atmosphere and great food. There’s something of a buzz around this restaurant that tells you people want to be here. It serves some amazing seafood dishes, and you can enjoy your meal with uninterrupted views of the castle.

Perched at the West End, this grand restaurant is just a stone's throw from many of Edinburgh’s graduation venues. The restaurant-come-ceilidh room is well suited to big groups, so if you’re bringing the extended family, give this one a shout. Ghillie Dhu also has Ceilidh clubs every Friday and Saturday, so book then for a boogie after.

In the heart of Edinburgh is The Outsider Restaurant – a homely, laid-back restaurant serving modern European cuisine. The ingredients and presentation are elevated, with a regularly changing menu that reflects the seasons, and daily specials. Plus, you can enjoy one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle from the restaurant.

Located halfway along George IV Bridge is one of our favourite Edinburgh restaurants, The Outsider. The restaurant has a laid-back approach to dining and uses the best fresh, seasonal produce. The best bit is, the restaurant boasts magnificient views of Edinburgh Castle and the rooftops of Old Town.

Boasting stellar views of Edinburgh Castle, The Outsider is an excellent place for lunch in Edinburgh. Its casual and laid-back vibe meets fresh, seasonal produce in an inviting split-level space. Plus, the castle views and layers of Scottish stone buildings in front are reason enough to visit.

This independent restaurant on George IV Bridge is another great option. It’s a short menu (always a good sign) and there are several specials each day. Best of all, they have some of the best prices in this category of fine dining restaurants.

The Outsider – one of my absolute favourite restaurants in Edinburgh, The Outsider offers insanely well priced, and seriously delicious, lunches with super friendly service. Try and get one of the coveted window tables with Castle views.

The Outsider in George IV Bridge, Old Town, treats diners to views of Edinburgh Castle. There is an emphasis on seasonal produce and the menu changes each day. Photo: The Outsider Facebook

The Outsider offer a more than reasonably priced lunch menu. With its informal surroundings it is a great place to while away a couple of hours in between sightseeing on the Royal Mile.