Café Calton - Italy meets Scotland in The Athens of the North.

Perched on Calton Hill

Café Calton, perched on its namesake hill—one of Edinburgh’s iconic seven offers seasonal Italian-inspired dishes in arguably one of the city’s finest locations for dining. As a local, it feels like a serene and beautiful haven, a gentle reminder of how lucky we are to live in such a city.

The walk up Calton Hill is a sensory delight, with wildflower beds and tourists capturing TikTok by the National Monument modelled on the Parthenon. 

Outside seating makes this spot perfect for golden-hour gatherings, sundowners, and future DJ-led events. The menu strikes a careful balance—not overwhelming, not sparse. Tempting items we don’t try this time (but will) include the haggis toastie with ‘broon’ sauce, pastrami or smoked salmon bagels, and chicken Caesar salad. 

What we do order: a tomato salad with burrata, broad bean and feta bruschetta on sourdough, and smoked salmon on crumpets are deceptively simple dishes executed with flair. Greek feta is delicately applied, while oils, lemon and herbs are used to full effect.  Earthenware plates alone deserve mention: they are rustic and characterful. The food is a kaleidoscope of vibrant summer colours, with pea, herbaceous, and pesto greens, multi-coloured tomatoes, and pure white cheeses. 

To drink, I choose a pale yellow bergamot-infused Italian spritz, while Liz goes for a pretty-in-pink cosmopolitan. 

Desserts stand out so much, I ask who’s behind them. The pastry chef, I learn, is Jessica Plebanik, originally from Poland. Liz has a passionfruit éclair that is modestly billed but delivers far beyond that. My lemon tart is intensely citrusy; its garnish—a delicate curl of homemade candied lemon peel and plump raspberry further reveals Café Calton’s thoughtful attention to detail.

Stefano Pieraccini

This is the latest venture from Stefano Pieraccini, Managing Director of The Rocca Group, which also boasts St Andrews’ Seafood Ristorante and The Broughton. I don’t realise it’s him serving us until dessert—he has been welcoming guests and keeping things humming.

By the time I finish my meal, I have a strong suspicion that bookings will soon be in high demand. So here’s my advice: get your table now.  You’ll thank me. 

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Cafe Calton - 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA.

Open 7 days a week from 8.30 am - 9:00 pm. Breakfast menu served 8,30 -11:45 am, lunch menu from 12pm - 3:45pm, and evening menu from 4pm - 8.30pm