Cardinal is a 20-seat restaurant on Eyre Place, in the New Town. About a 20 minute walk from the Royal Mile and most of the main Fringe venues, but not in the middle of any of it.
MICHELIN Guide Recommended, a Good Food Guide Very Good distinction, and a place in the Square Meal Top 100 2026.
Cardinal is at the north edge of the New Town. Most of the central Fringe venues are within twenty-five minutes on foot, though it's Edinburgh, so there are hills. A taxi from the Royal Mile is six to eight minutes.
Eyre Place is ten minutes north of Princes Street. In August, it's a noticeably quieter part of town. No flyering, no queues outside the door. The restaurant runs the same way it does the rest of the year.
A lot of our Fringe guests come for that reason. They want a proper meal at the end of a long day at the festival.
The same menus we run the rest of the year. Scottish produce, scallops from Orkney, game in season.
View a recent sample menu. Dishes change every few weeks.
Cardinal keeps normal hours through August. Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
August is our busiest month, so book ahead. Reservations through SevenRooms on the main site, or email [email protected]. For groups of six or more, or pre-show timing, email is best.
14 Eyre Place
Edinburgh EH3 5EP
20 minutes on foot
6 minutes by taxi