A stone's throw from Edinburgh Old Town and right by the university, you'll find Paolozzi. This relaxed dining room offers high-quality Italian food in a pared-back setting, ideal for casual and group dining. The restaurant uses excellent ingredients, prepared simply using traditional Italian methods. There's plenty of choice, from pasta to pizza, risotto to salads, so even the choosiest diner will be well-catered to. Named after the pop artist and sculptor Eduardo Paolozzi, who was born in Leigh in the 20s, this restaurant has become a stylish staple of locals and tourists alike.
On the taps, the local family-run Edinburgh beer factory supply award-winning lagers and time-tested IPas, while Thistly Cross supplies the cider. Classic Italian aperitivi such as negronis and americanos are on hand for purists, while cocktail lovers can indulge in anything from a mojito to an old fashioned. There is a short, to-the-point and highly affordable wine list of primarily Italian bottles, and mocktails are available too for those staying off the booze.
Kick off with favourites like calamari, melanzane and arancini, or push the boat out a little more with the likes of king scallops with black pudding and pea puree (a slightly more Scottish entry). Focaccia and bruschetta are up for grabs too, but be sure to save room for the pizza. Toppings include for di latte, anchovies, vegetables, speck, nduja, salsiccia and more, so there's plenty of choice on that front.
When it comes to the pasta options, diners can go simple with the likes of ricotta gnocchi or more complex with something like braised lamb shoulder ragu and fennel seed pappardelle. Slightly less carb-heavy mains are also available, such as pan-fried veal escalops with vegetables or roasted cod with mussels, white beans and new potatoes.
Finish with an affogato (with some additional booze if you fancy it) or other options like tiramisu or lemon tart with mascarpone.