Café Royal

Café Royal is one of Edinburgh’s best-known historic pubs and seafood restaurants, tucked away on West Register Street just off Princes Street.

The Victorian interior is a large part of the draw, with an ornate circular bar, decorative tiles, stained glass and period detailing.

Unlike many heritage pubs, though, Café Royal still works equally well as a proper restaurant, particularly for oysters and Scottish seafood.

Food & Drink

The restaurant focuses on oysters, fresh seafood and traditional British and Scottish dishes, while the bar serves cask ale, beer, wine and spirits. Food is generally served until 9:30pm.

The pub and restaurant have different age rules. Under-18s are not permitted in the bar, while children aged five and over are welcome in the restaurant.

Opening Hours

Monday to Wednesday and Sunday: 11am-11pm. Thursday to Saturday: 9am-1am. Food serving times can differ from bar opening hours.

Our Tips

• Book the restaurant if you specifically want seafood rather than just drinks at the bar.
• The interior is worth seeing even if you are only stopping for one drink.
• Café Royal says it does not have disabled-access toilets, so check the latest accessibility information if this affects your visit.
• West Register Street is only a few minutes from Waverley Station and St Andrew Square tram stop.

See the official Café Royal website for current food menus, reservations and opening times.