Whirlybird Edinburgh Review: Dinner and Cocktails in Edinburgh’s Old Town

Whirlybird in Edinburgh’s Old Town is one of those restaurants that feels instantly welcoming. Stylish without being stiff, relaxed without feeling too casual, and with a menu that celebrates Scottish produce in a fresh, modern way.

We visited for dinner and found a menu packed with flavour, comfort and just enough sparkle to make it feel special but without the fuss.

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Drinks at Whirlybird Edinburgh

We started with a Whirlybird Highball cocktail, a refreshing house serve that was light, lively and dangerously easy to drink. Alongside this, we tried the Grand Boise sparkling pét nat, which brought a gently fizzy, natural wine brightness to the table.

The pét nat was especially good with the richer dishes, cutting through the depth of flavour without overpowering the food.

Menu at Whirlybird Edinburgh

Haggis and Ox Cheek

First up was the haggis and ox cheek, a dish that really showed what Whirlybird does well. The haggis brought peppery warmth, while the ox cheek was rich, soft and deeply savoury.

It was proper comfort food, but with enough refinement to make it feel special. A strong start.

Smoked Mackerel Salad

The smoked mackerel salad was lighter but still full of flavour. The fish had a lovely oiliness balanced by freshness from the salad. It was a good contrast to the richer dishes and showed that Whirlybird can do bright and fresh just as well as bold and hearty.

Highland Wagyu Burger

The Highland Wagyu burger was exactly the kind of dish you want when you see wagyu on a menu. Juicy, satisfying and full of beefy flavour, it felt indulgent without being over the top.

This is a burger worth ordering if you are looking for something generous, comforting and seriously tasty in Edinburgh Old Town.

Pan-Fried Hake with Champagne Velouté

The standout dish for us was the pan-fried hake, served with champagne velouté, Scottish asparagus, basil oil and confit tomato.

The hake was beautifully cooked, with crisp edges and soft, flaky fish inside. The champagne velouté gave the dish a luxurious feel, while the asparagus, basil oil and confit tomato added freshness and colour.

This was elegant, balanced and one of the best fish dishes we have eaten in Edinburgh recently.

Grilled Aubergine with Cashew Cream and Rose Harissa

On the side, we ordered the grilled aubergine with cashew cream and rose harissa. This was far more than just a side dish. Smoky aubergine, creamy cashew and fragrant harissa made it rich, warming and full of character.

It is the sort of dish that could easily hold its own as part of a vegetarian meal.

Milk and Honey Ice Cream

To finish, we shared a selection of Milk and Honey ice cream. Creamy, smooth and full of flavour, it was a simple but very satisfying end to the meal.

After the richness of the earlier dishes, ice cream was exactly the right choice. No fuss, just good quality and delicious.

Whirlybird Edinburgh Review: Final Thoughts

Whirlybird is a welcome addition to Edinburgh Old Town’s dining scene. The menu makes excellent use of Scottish ingredients, with dishes that feel comforting, creative and well thought out.

From the Whirlybird Highball cocktail and sparkling pét nat to the haggis and ox cheek, Highland Wagyu burger and elegant pan-fried hake, this was a meal full of highlights.

Service was friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed, and the food delivered on flavour. Whether you are visiting Edinburgh, looking for somewhere for dinner in the Old Town, or searching for a restaurant with Scottish produce and a modern twist, Whirlybird is well worth booking.

Whirlybird Edinburgh: FAQs

Where is Whirlybird in Edinburgh?

Whirlybird is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, making it a handy restaurant choice for dinner before or after exploring the city centre.

What kind of food does Whirlybird serve?

Whirlybird serves modern Scottish food with creative touches, using dishes such as haggis and ox cheek, Highland Wagyu burger, pan-fried hake and seasonal vegetables. Between the hours of 9 am and12 noon, they serve coffee and pastries.

Is Whirlybird good for dinner in Edinburgh?

Yes, Whirlybird is a strong choice for dinner in Edinburgh Old Town, especially if you enjoy Scottish produce, cocktails, natural wine and relaxed dining.