After a visit to the superb recently-opened new Scottish galleries, lunch at the Cafe was the cherry on the cake. Although very busy on a Monday lunchtime, staff promptly seated us and service was attentive, efficient and friendly throughout. Food was served surprisingly promptly too....A buttery with a mushroom topping was fresh and tasty, served with a side of superb chunky chips. A smoked trout open sandwich was also excellent, with a generous portion of thickly-sliced fish. Good strong espresso coffees rounded off an excellent meal which showcased the best of Scottish and Italian ingredients - the claim made by the Contini family who run the Cafe!More

The service was efficient and the staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, which contributed greatly to a most enjoyable day at the Gallery. In particular Andy went above and beyond to be of service.More

I visited for lunch on a very stormy Edinburgh day. The restaurant was very busy but it didn't take long to be taken to a table - just me dining. Staff were polite and very efficient although, like a lot of places these days, they...seemed short-staffed. The fish and chips were excellent, served with a glass of Pinot Grigio. My waiter (Owen) was attentive and, although very busy, managed a quick conversation and a smile. Overall, it was a very welcome break during my visit to the Scottish National Gallery. Well done to the Contini team.More

The restaurant is on the lower floor of the National Gallery with views out into Princes Street garden at the heart of Edinburgh. The staff are welcoming and there seem to be a lot of them. It’s slightly surprising then that service is a little...slow from getting a table, having an order taken, food arriving and then getting the bill. We’ve eaten here many times and it’s always the same (maybe a problem with the system?). It hasn’t put us off though as the views and atmosphere are great and the food is also really good. The menu changes so there are always new things to try. Wines by the glass are good too. Great central place to meet people.More

Jamie and the staff at The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant made our visit amazing. We had tea to celebrate a birthday. I would return again in a second.More

A great place for a relaxing lunch. The food was well presented and tasty. Our server, Owen, was extremely attentive and good humoured .

Superb service by Owen at a busy time. Chatty, efficient, welcoming. Food was great although rather a long wait.More

Owen was fantastic, quick, courteous, and the berry scone with cream and tea was delicious and a great price. I wanted tea and a scone and found just what I wanted. They had savory options too. The view from the grand windows was fantastic. I...highly recommend visiting the art gallery next door (free admission) and then drop by for a snack.More

Always lovely. The cream scone is the best. Nice ambience and a welcome break from shopping! Owen was great.More

Owen was our fantastic host and waiter Fantastic place and atmosphere Excellent food selection Speedy and attentive service

Food was great today and the staff were so lovely, in particular Jamie who couldn't have been more friendly and helpful! We'll be back.

After a pleasurable but tiring gallery visit we took the opportunity to have lunch at Contini in the art gallery. Beautiful open view of the city and a very comfortable seat. Our server was Jamie who did a very efficient job of seeing to our...every need. I particularly liked the fact that I had almost finished my water and he noticed and came over and topped my glass up. A small gesture but sometimes it's the small things that draw you back in. Nice food, beautiful surroundings, great staff.More