The Witchery

My wife and I were visiting Edinburgh and had been told by several people that you simply cannot leave the city without experiencing a meal at The Witchery. Based on its reputation, we made a reservation with high expectations and were genuinely looking forward to what we thought would be a memorable dining experience. The restaurant itself has a beautiful atmosphere, and the service was excellent. The staff were welcoming, attentive, and professional throughout our visit. Unfortunately, the food was a major disappointment. We shared the 28-Day Aged Scotch Côte de Boeuf and ordered it medium, as recommended by the chef. Regrettably, it was one of the toughest steaks I have ever eaten. The meat was extremely difficult to cut and chew, and the gristly edges were so hard they were almost inedible. It was unlike any quality steak I have had before, especially at a restaurant with such a prestigious reputation. Given the price and the acclaim surrounding The Witchery, we expected an exceptional meal. Instead, we left feeling disappointed that the food did not come close to matching the outstanding service or the restaurant’s reputation. I truly wanted to love this experience, but based on the quality of the meal we received, I cannot recommend it. I sincerely hope this was an isolated incident, as the restaurant’s atmosphere and staff deserve much better than the food we were served.

4 weeks ago · via Google

The witchery was one of the most memorable meals of our trip. We booked a 10:30pm dinner here to celebrate our engagement and it was the absolute best time. Experiencing it candelit at night creates a beautiful, intimate, and bewitching atmosphere. The kir royale, bouillabaisse, duck, and apple tart were out of this world! This place deserves all the praise and more. The service was excellent, the staff being very professional and personable. They served our dessert on these cute plates for our engagement! This is a must to your edinburgh trip!!

2 months ago · via Google

I did not stay in the hotel but I did eat at the restaurant so that is the basis for my review. I gave them a high ratings on the rooms because the pictures certainly make it look like a fantastic place to stay. The location is perfect right on the royal mile and near the Edinburgh castle. The service at the restaurant was impeccable even with the food mishaps. The food however could have been better. The steak dish that I ordered medium rare did come out way more rare than I expected and even when they brought it back out for me it was still too rare. It was disappointing because that dish alone was expensive by itself. The other food that we ordered was good but I wouldn't say any of the food was stand out fantastic by any means especially for the price of the dinner. The atmosphere is fun and really puts you into the Scottish mood. We dined in the original dining room but they also have a secret garden room that looked fun as well. Honestly I may even go back next time I visit Edinburgh because of the fun vibe. I just wish the food was better prepared for the price that you are paying. Also one other thing that bugged me was that a couple that were say after us got service before us and I just think that's improper. We dined here in May 2026. I do recommend if you want to go for the atmosphere.

2 weeks ago · via Google

Dining at the Witchery is a wonderfully sensorial experience The ambience is magical with the main level room historic, warm and moody aesthetic to the upper level that is reminiscent of a garden house in France. I enjoyed an absolutely delicious dinner and as a Pescatarian, the Witchery offered many culinary infulgences to fit my needs. The sole dish was perfectly made and the apple tart with warm custard was delicious. I was particularly impressed with the balance of pastry to apples and the Witchery interpretation of a classic petit four - delish and delightful!! The service was outstanding - professional but also warm, personable and well informed. If you are looking for some sensorial magic , this is the spot to indulge yourself !!

2 months ago · via Google