Name: The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
Address: 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, UK

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The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage, located at 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, UK, was a restaurant known for its stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. It received a mix of positive and negative reviews, with patrons praising the views and some aspects of the food, while others criticized the pricing and service. The restaurant has been permanently closed since December 2024.

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage: Dining with a View in Edinburgh's Skyline Paradise 

Perched atop the scenic Calton Hill in Edinburgh, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage offers an unparalleled dining experience merging elevated cuisine with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city and the Firth of Forth. This refined restaurant delights visitors with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the iconic skyline, making it a perfect spot for food lovers and travelers seeking authentic Scottish flavors paired with stunning views.

An Innovative Taste of Scotland's Finest Seasonal Ingredients

The Lookout embraces a sophisticated yet modern approach to Scottish cuisine, focusing on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the best of the region. Diners enjoy a thoughtfully curated five-course tasting menu that balances quality and presentation with subtle creativity. Vegetarian, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free options are available, ensuring a menu inclusive of diverse dietary preferences.

 have prompted mixed reviews—some guests feel the portions are modest for the price, while others appreciate the quality and presentation. Regardless, the emphasis remains on offering a refined dining experience where the flavor and sourcing of ingredients take center stage.

With minimalist decor that accentuates the surrounding natural beauty, The Lookout offers a tranquil and elegant setting ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. The staff are widely praised for their attentive and friendly service, skillfully accommodating dietary needs and ensuring a memorable visit. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and recommends smart casual attire, welcoming all guests to enjoy its unique hospitality.

 The five-course tasting menu is priced at £85 per person.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?

 Yes, the restaurant offers vegan-friendly and gluten-free options.

 The restaurant does not enforce a strict dress code; smart casual attire is recommended.

 Yes, reservations are recommended and can be made through their website.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage is cherished for its stunning location and innovative approach to Scottish cuisine. While diners often rave about the spectacular views and high-quality ingredients, some express concerns about portion sizes and pricing. Service is generally friendly and accommodating, though experiences with speed vary. Overall, this restaurant offers a distinctive and memorable dining atmosphere that celebrates local flavors and scenic beauty.

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United Kingdom

Perched majestically atop Calton Hill, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage offers an unparalleled dining experience that combines breathtaking views of Edinburgh with a menu that celebrates the best of local produce. As you step inside, the floor-to-ceiling windows invite the stunning skyline into the restaurant, creating a backdrop that transforms every meal into a memorable occasion. The minimalist design enhances the natural beauty surrounding the establishment, making it a perfect spot for both intimate dinners and special celebrations.

The Lookout's menu is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of Scotland's larder. One standout dish is the **venison loin**, expertly prepared and served with a delicate sauce that enhances its rich flavors. Diners rave about the presentation, which is as stunning as the view. Another highlight is the lunch set menu, featuring a variety of beautifully crafted dishes that change with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.

The Lookout is not just about food; it’s an experience. The panoramic views of Edinburgh, especially during sunset, create a magical atmosphere that enhances every meal. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is evident in their sourcing practices, ensuring that every ingredient is fresh and local. A fun fact: the restaurant is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, allowing diners to feel connected to the natural beauty of Calton Hill.

The Lookout is renowned for its breathtaking views of Edinburgh and its focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

The combination of exquisite food, stunning views, and a serene atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers alike.

The Lookout is conveniently located near several iconic Edinburgh landmarks, including the National Monument and the Scottish Parliament.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage promises a dining experience like no other. With its stunning views, exquisite food, and warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories. Book your table today and indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the beauty of Scotland.

Elevated seasonal dishes served in a refined restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows & city views.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIMDhTS3l3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJP9RgBHnHh0gRFRYTsYC4oDE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIMDhTS3l3RRAB

Everything was good, but nothing was great. The views were gorgeous and the experience was nice, but I can't recommend the food at this price point.

I have done enough fine dining to understand the experience is going to be a bit different, but even so these portion sizes were insultingly small. I had been particularly looking forward to the venison loin, but I have honestly been served larger portions of quail. A deer gives a chef a lot to work with, but if you'd never seen a deer before, you would come away from this dinner assuming they must be roughly the size of a Dachshund.

And I understand this may be an outcome of the restaurant's focus on local foods and sustainability, but I still left feeling like it was not worth the cost.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6NE9TREVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJP9RgBHnHh0gRFRYTsYC4oDE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6NE9TREVnEAE

This is a really difficult review, as I almost feel the quality of ingredients and presentation is worth 5 stars, but for some reason we just didn’t get a WOW factor.

There was enough to eat (just), but the main course was a bit light on content; really just one piece of protein(2 ounces?) & 1 small potato, with some nominal garnish & sauce to try and fill some of the empty area on the plate. The quality of the protein & potato was excellent.

Service & location are very good.

We think the price, including service charge, was justified, and would have been happy to pay 10-15 pounds more, for the same courses, but with a little more volume on the appetizer course(one small scallop) and main course.

PS: They did an excellent job of accommodating my wife’s food allergies.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSMVAtYUxnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJP9RgBHnHh0gRFRYTsYC4oDE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSMVAtYUxnEAE

The Lookout is an exceptional restaurant that truly showcases the most spectacular views in the city. From the panoramic vistas of Edinburgh's iconic landmarks to the natural beauty surrounding the restaurant, I was in awe throughout my visit. The minimalistic design of the restaurant only served to highlight the stunning views even further.

As for the food, the lunch set menu was absolutely marvellous. Every dish was crafted with care and attention to detail. The staff were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, adding to the overall excellent service.

While it's worth noting that there are no options outside of the set menu, this wasn't an issue in any way. The set menu offered such a varied and delicious selection that we didn't feel like we were missing out on anything. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that they don't offer coffee other than French press, but this is minor detail compared to the overall experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNkOU5mdFp3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJP9RgBHnHh0gRFRYTsYC4oDE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNkOU5mdFp3EAE

Located exceptionally well, perched at the top of Castle Hill, offering a panoramic view of the entire Edinburgh skyline, especially stunning during sunset. Sitting by the window and witnessing the evening glow is truly spectacular! They provide a set menu, and the food quality is quite good, especially the venison. Perfect for a romantic date.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqX3FDbTdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJP9RgBHnHh0gRFRYTsYC4oDE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqX3FDbTdBRRAB

Amazing view, great food, lovely and friendly service. Lunch here really was the perfect ending to our city trip in edinburgh. We booked at gardeners cottage at first, which due to circumstances didnt go trough. The hopsitalty we received when the booking changed was so sweet. Defitly would recommend the look out or gardeners cottage

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage: Scenic Dining in Edinburgh

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage was a restaurant located at 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, UK. It was known for its stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. The restaurant was a partnership between The Gardener’s Cottage and Collective, redeveloping the City Observatory site on Calton Hill into a contemporary art space. It opened in 2018 and closed permanently in December 2024.

The lookout by gardener's cottage history overview and timeline overview of edinburgh's landmark dining experience with panoramic vista views and culinary evolution from 2019 to 2022.

Perched dramatically on Calton Hill's northwest slope, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage is a spectacular fusion of historic Edinburgh charm and modern architectural brilliance. This acclaimed restaurant, a collaboration between Gardener’s Cottage and the Collective, transformed the City Observatory site into a sophisticated art and dining destination, characterized by its cantilevered structure and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that unveil sweeping panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Since opening its doors in 2019, The Lookout quickly established itself as a must-visit culinary landmark in Edinburgh. The innovative design not only complements the surrounding heritage site but also offers a unique dining experience that bridges the city's rich history with contemporary gastronomy. In 2020, the restaurant’s excellence was formally recognized when it earned the prestigious 'Best Newcomer' award at the Scottish Restaurant Awards, marking a significant milestone in its burgeoning reputation.

Demonstrating a commitment to culinary innovation and guest satisfaction, The Lookout expanded its offerings in 2021 to include an exquisite five-course tasting menu. This evolution enhanced the dining experience by showcasing elevated, seasonal Scottish dishes that harmonize with the breathtaking views. In 2022, the restaurant commemorated its third anniversary with a special event, featuring live performances from local Scottish musicians, thereby deepening its ties with Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural scene.

a distinctive dining destination with unforgettable views

 remains an iconic Edinburgh venue that seamlessly blends refined seasonal cuisine with breathtaking vistas. Its unique cantilevered architecture and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows invite diners to indulge not only in delicious food but also in some of the most spectacular views across the cityscape and coastal horizons. This harmonious blend of history, design, and gastronomy makes it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking an elevated dining experience in Scotland’s capital.

 The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage welcomed its first guests, introducing a fresh dining concept atop Calton Hill.

 The restaurant earned the 'Best Newcomer' award at the Scottish Restaurant Awards, affirming its impact on the local dining scene.

 Introduction of a sophisticated five-course tasting menu, elevating the gastronomic experience.

 Marked its third year with a special event showcasing local Scottish talent in music, reinforcing its community connection.

Dine In

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Coffee

Serves Cocktails

Perched majestically atop Calton Hill, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage invites guests to experience not just a meal, but an immersion in the heart of Edinburgh's natural beauty and rich heritage. The restaurant itself is a modern architectural marvel, harmonizing seamlessly with the historic charm that characterizes Edinburgh. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the space, casting a glow over the elegantly presented dishes inspired by Scotland’s bountiful larder. Savor a seasonal menu crafted with meticulous attention to detail, where each plate tells a story of local ingredients and traditional culinary techniques reimagined in inventive ways.

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage

A selection of dishes showcasing seasonal and local ingredients, offering a modern twist on Scottish cuisine.

Mackerel, Apple, Yoghurt

Pigeon, Cocoa, Bramble

Halibut, Braised and Pickled Kohlrabi, Celeriac Sauce, Cockles, Mussels

Venison, Barley, Carrots, Kale

Chocolate Mousse, Sea Buckthorn, Hazelnuts

Blood Orange Soufflé, Clementine

Sample Menu

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage Menu Overview

Perched atop Edinburgh's scenic Calton Hill, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage offers an elevated dining experience where every dish is a celebration of seasonal and local Scottish ingredients. This refined restaurant delights guests with panoramic city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a spectacular backdrop for a menu that expertly blends modern culinary creativity with the rich flavors of Scotland.

Begin your culinary journey with delicately balanced starters that intrigue the palate with fresh, local produce and unexpected flavor combinations.

 – Fresh mackerel paired with crisp apple and silky yoghurt creates a harmonious blend of coastal and orchard flavors.

 – Earthy pigeon enriched with subtle cocoa notes and accented by the tartness of wild bramble fruit for a bold introduction.

The main courses showcase tender proteins and seasonal vegetables artfully combined to highlight the best of Scottish terroir.

 – Succulent halibut served alongside braised and pickled kohlrabi, complemented by a velvety celeriac sauce and fresh shellfish from local waters.

 – Tender Scottish venison paired with hearty barley, sweet carrots, and fresh kale offering a robust, earthy flavor profile.

Sweet endings that combine indulgence with local seasonal fruits and nuts to perfectly conclude your meal.

 – Silky chocolate mousse enriched with the tartness of sea buckthorn and the crunch of toasted hazelnuts for a decadent finish.

 – Light and airy blood orange soufflé balanced by fresh clementine segments, delivering a citrusy, refreshing dessert.

The Lookout also offers a curated selection of wines and craft beers perfectly paired with the menu’s flavors. While coffee options are limited to French press, every sip complements the meal's refined simplicity. Seasonal specials are crafted to highlight the freshest ingredients available, promising new discoveries with each visit.

Savor stunning views and gourmet cuisine at The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage in Edinburgh. Book your unforgettable dining experience now!

The Lookout: Fine Dining with Views in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Municipality

The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage: A Culinary Experience with Stunning Edinburgh Views

Nestled atop Calton Hill at 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage offers an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly marries exquisite food with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This refined restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, framing some of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks and creating a spectacular backdrop for your meal.

Exceptional seasonal tasting menu and wine pairings

At the heart of The Lookout's culinary offerings is the thoughtfully curated five-course tasting menu priced at 85 pounds. This menu highlights the best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich flavors of Scotland's diverse produce. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail and artistic presentation, inviting food lovers to savor a unique and elevated dining journey.

 are also thoughtfully included, ensuring a delightful experience for all palates.

Enhance your meal with the optional wine pairing at 28 pounds, where expert sommeliers select wines that perfectly complement each course, elevating the flavors and the overall dining experience.

The Lookout's minimalistic interior design ensures that the jaw-dropping views of Edinburgh’s skyline remain the star of the show. Guests often describe the experience as awe-inspiring, particularly at sunset when the city glows in warm hues. The attentive and knowledgeable staff contribute to the welcoming atmosphere, making each visit feel personalized and special.

 is available for those who want to dine al fresco and soak up the fresh air alongside the stunning views. The venue serves lunch, dinner, and dessert, as well as coffee (French press style) and cocktails, rounding out a full sensory experience.

Perfect for special occasions and romantic dates

Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a memorable meal with a view, The Lookout is the place to be. Its location atop Castle Hill offers an exclusive vantage point for cityscape photography and a romantic ambiance that visitors rave about. The set menu approach ensures a carefully orchestrated culinary experience, though portions tend to be modest, reflecting a refined fine dining style focused on quality over quantity.

 with five courses of seasonal and local ingredients.

 of Edinburgh’s skyline from floor-to-ceiling windows.

 with spectacular sunset views over the city.

Scotland

Discover The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage in Edinburgh. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and exquisite seasonal Scottish cuisine. Book your experience now!

Experience The Lookout Edinburgh - Panoramic City Views & Gourmet Dining

Savor exceptional Scottish dishes at The Lookout, Calton Hill, Edinburgh. Witness breathtaking city vistas while indulging in fine dining. Reserve today!

Experience The Lookout - Edinburgh's Iconic City View Restaurant

Visit The Lookout at Calton Hill for panoramic Edinburgh vistas and seasonal Scottish cuisine. A perfect spot for special occasions. Book your table!

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