Boutique Anatolian Bistro
Meze platters & Turkish sweets — steps from the Royal Mile
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars 4.9 · 16 Google reviews
Alcohol-free & BYO welcome · Walk in — no booking needed
Behind the turquoise shopfront and hand-tiled sign at 24 St Mary's Street sits a tiny two-floor bistro — carved wooden mezzanine, kilim benches, and mosaic lamps in every colour hanging from the ceiling.
Guests keep mentioning the same person in their reviews: Ali, the owner — guiding first-timers through the meze, pointing vegetarians to the right plates. It's an alcohol-free house, so bring your own bottle; one reviewer was even pointed to a nearby shop for his favourite pale ale.
“The plates are meant for sharing.” — everything arrives meze-style, made for the middle of the table.
“Absolutely amazing meze restaurant! … The staff were so welcoming, friendly, and made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Without a doubt one of the best meze restaurants I've been to.”
Sirac G.
“We shared a bunch of small plates that were all unique and were happy to have so many vegetarian choices. Very friendly owner gave us excellent guidance. Great value.”
Lawrence W.
“Had the Meze and especially enjoyed the lamb moussaka and the meatballs. The owner was very personable. Another bonus was it was BYO and we were pointed to a nearby shop which sold Sierra Nevada Pale Ale.”
David S.
“Fantastic experience eating amazing Turkish food and chatting with Ali, the owner. The plates are meant for sharing and there is an excellent selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Highly recommended.”
Rosalie F.
Kitchen closes at 22:15 · Walk in — reservation is not necessary
24 St Mary's Street
Edinburgh EH1 1SU
Steps from the Royal Mile
07864 103700
@empirescafebistro ↗