Welcome dinner and rehearsal dinner restaurants in Scotland

Booking a group dinner in Scotland

• Book private dining rooms early in August, when the Edinburgh festivals fill the city.
• Dinner usually from 6:30 to 9 pm. Many kitchens stop serving by 9 or 9:30 pm, even in summer.
• Tipping: Around 10 to 12.5% in restaurants. Check the bill first, because a service charge is often added for groups.
• Book two to three months ahead for groups over 20, especially in high season (May to September).
• Ask about deposits, minimum spend and the cancellation policy in writing.
• Plan transport back to the hotels. Driving is on the left. For a castle or countryside venue, book a coach for guests on the wedding day.

For a splurge night

• The Kitchin Leith, Edinburgh
  Michelin-starred cooking with the best Scottish seasonal produce, by the Leith waterfront.
• Ondine Old Town, Edinburgh
  Oysters and sustainable seafood just off the Royal Mile.
• The Witchery by the Castle Old Town, Edinburgh
  Gothic, candlelit dining rooms at the castle gates. Unforgettable for a rehearsal dinner.
• Hawksmoor Edinburgh New Town, Edinburgh
  Steaks and cocktails in a grand former bank hall, with private dining rooms.

Or make the welcome night an activity

• Ghost tour of the underground vaults. Go beneath the old town into the vaults where Edinburgh's ghost stories live.
• Scottish dinner and ceilidh show. Traditional food, music and dancing in a lively evening show. A fun warm-up for the wedding.