20 Princes Street might be relatively young in age – launching in just 2013, but in its few years of existence it has built up an extremely positive reputation within the Edinburgh food and drink scene, mention it’s name is and it is always met with nods of approval, having yet to experience the restaurant ourselves TLE went along last Friday night to find out what all the fuss is about.
Background & Concept
No surprises in guessing its location the clue is in the name – 20 Princes street is diagonally across from the Balmoral in what was the former Royal British Hotel’s Victorian ballroom.

Mixing old with new the restaurant retains the building’s original Victorian features – triple high ceilings, wooden cornicing and gigantic bay windows whisk you back to a bygone era, whilst the contemporary finishes like walnut booths  and white marble tables sit in complete harmony within the space. Like a theatre stage the restaurants bay windows provide uninterrupted views out across Princess Street Gardens and many of the tables and chairs are positioned to take advantage of this impressive vista.
The restaurant was buzzing and alive with chatter and laughter when we were in – with customers enjoying pre-dinner drinks in the restaurants adjoining gin bar Juniper and all tables in the main dining area full. We were guided to one of the walnut booths, which when sat down was amazingly cosy and quiet, perfect for an evening of eating ...