Photo by Andrew Hayes

When travelling, it can be so difficult to find an inexpensive place to eat without suffering quality. That’s why I would like to recommend a ‘best cheap eats award’ (that is just a technical term for ‘one of my favourite restaurants’) to the Tempting Tattie in Edinburgh. Located just off the Royal Mile on Jeffreys Street, the central location makes for a quick and easy stop in on the way home to your hotel or hostel or just before you go out for a night on the town. The folk inside this ‘wee’ shop serve up baked potatoes with enough toppings to feed a family of four! The largest potato is just around £5, which is excellent value for the amount of food – and indeed, all of the toppings are fresh and tasty. Go traditional and order the haggis and cheese; if that seems too much for you, try the lighter options such as tuna salad or pineapple. The service is extremely friendly and sociable; you will find many a local in here stopping for a chat or just to say hello.

There are only a couple of barstools in the window, but this is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. It is also a great place for those travelling alone to dine and not feel uncomfortable. Otherwise, if the weather is suitable, grab yours takeaway and head down the Royal Mile to Dunbar’s Close (just past the Tolbooth Tavern and the church on your left-hand side) and enjoy some alfresco dining on one of the lovely benches.

For recommendations of what to do and see in Edinburgh, be sure to check out the Europe a la Carte Edinburgh guide.

Click here for the lowest prices on Edinburgh hotels