Looking for decent scran (Scottish for 'food') that won’t dent the budget? Well, Edinburgh is happy to oblige – with everything from authentic Indian tapas to the daddy of all pork baps.

Tuk Tuk

Why go?  For a taste of Indian Tapas in Tollcross.

This super-cool restaurant offers street food-inspired, tapas dishes. Feast on delicious Chicken lollipops, Railway Station lamb curry, baby aubergine and potatoes and Chilli Paneer, to name a few. With dishes starting at £4.30, you can fill your belly on a budget – that’s if you can resist ordering everything off the menu!

What’s more, it’s BYOB – so you can keep the booze budget down, by picking up a supermarket bargain on route! Although the Lassis (£3) are worth a splurge. The funky orange décor, great atmosphere and friendly staff mean this place is a popular haunt and they’ve even got dietry requirements in the bag.

Take me there now:

Just a wee walk from The Meadows or Princes Street, via Lothian Road

1 Leven Street, Tollcross – opposite the King’s Theatre

Open: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm

Tempting Tattie

Why go?  For the love of a good potato.

I mean, what’s not to love about a ginormous, fully-loaded jacket spud? It’s hot, it fills a big hole and you can choose the toppings to suit your mood. The classics (cheese & beans or tuna mayo) may always prevail – but we dare you to try, and not love, the epitome of fillers: Haggis, cheese & chutney (of the mango variety). This wee gem is within walking distance of our tour departure point, so our staff have been surviving on this for years and, I’m sure you’ll agree, they’re looking pretty damn good on it!

Take me there now:

Step out of the Haggis office on the High Street, turn right down the High Street and next left onto Jeffery Street and voila!

18 Jeffrey Street, Old Town, EH1 1DT

Open: Monday – Saturday, 11.30 – 8pm

Oink!

Why go?  For Hog Roast Heaven.

Get your chops around the daddy of all pork baps at Oink. Choose from The Piglet, The Oink or, our favourite, The Grunter (which is £5.80) – all served in soft (brown or white) roll, topped with your choice of sauce: sage & onion, chilli relish, haggis or lashings of apple.

And if you’re hoping to chow down on some crackling *dribbles* then you’ll need to arrive early. It’s also worth noting that all the piggies are from farms located in the beautiful Scottish Borders – so only good, honest, meat is on the menu!

Take me there now:

Stroll down the Grassmarket and you’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot a whole pig roasting in the window!

34 Victoria Street, EH1 2JW

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am – 6pm; Sunday 11am – 5pm (or until the pig runs out)

Milk

Why go?  For a healthy, budget, brunch fix.

Been going at life a little hard of late? Milk can provide a little chi in the form of a healthy mushroom, rosemary and scrambled egg burrito (£6.75). Don’t worry, a full breakfast is on the menu (£8.50) along with lunchtime stews  & soups, sandwiches and even a superfood salad for the virtuous among us. 

Take me there now:

232 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EA

Open: Monday – Friday 7.30am – 4pm; Saturday 8am – 4pm; Sunday 8am – 3pm

The Original Mosque Kitchen

Why go? Simple, delicious and cheap curry - served within the Mosque gates.

This much-loved establishment has gained cult status among some of the old-school Edinburgh residents. Loved by students, tourists and hungry Muslims on their way to or from the Mosque. Expect canteen-style curry & rice ladled out of old-school drums - and served on paper plates with plastic cutlery. You’ll sit outside, with shelter from the rain, and in the company of the odd nosey pigeon, giving you the big ‘feed me’ eye ball. The average price for a substantial scran is around £7. 

Take me there now:

Edinburgh Central Mosque, 50 Potterow, EH8 9BT

Open: Daily 11.30am – 8pm

Check out our other Edinburgh blogs featuring independent coffee shops, tourist attractions and local gems in the Old Town.