If you love good food, there’s something wonderful about stepping into a tiny deli or wandering through a bustling market — the smell of freshly baked bread, the chatter of friendly stallholders, and the promise of something delicious made close to home.
Top Independent Delis in Edinburgh
1. I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger – Stockbridge & Old Town
If you’ve ever wandered through Stockbridge, you’ve probably spotted the inviting shopfront of I.J. Mellis. This family-run cheesemonger has been part of Edinburgh life since 1993 and remains the go-to for artisan cheese, charcuterie, and beautifully sourced Scottish produce.
The staff are friendly and genuinely passionate — if you’re unsure what to try, ask for a recommendation. You’ll leave with something special, whether that’s a wedge of Isle of Mull cheddar or a perfectly ripe brie to pair with oatcakes.
📍 6 Bakers Place, EH3 6SY (and Old Town branch)
Open daily
2. Herbie of Edinburgh – Stockbridge
A few doors along, Herbie’s feels like stepping into a time-honoured food shop — shelves stacked with preserves, baskets of fresh bread, and a glorious display of Scottish cheeses and cured meats.
They champion local producers and small suppliers, so you can expect high-quality charcuterie, homemade pâtés, and those proper loaves that actually smell of bread. Perfect for a picnic or a weekend treat.
📍 66 Raeburn Place, EH4 1HJ
Local favourite for artisan produce
3. UnKnownItaly – Stockbridge
Still in Stockbridge (you could easily make a morning of it here), UnKnownItaly brings a taste of the Mediterranean north. It’s an Italian deli with charm — think Burrata, Truffle Pecorino, and Bresaola sliced fresh while you wait.
If you like mixing continental flavour with your Scottish finds, this is the place. They often have small-batch olive oils and pastas too — perfect for a simple, high-quality dinner at home.
📍 8 St Stephen Street, EH3 5AL
4. Mizzica Sicilian Deli – Cameron Toll
Further south, near Cameron Toll, Mizzica is a little burst of sunshine on a grey Edinburgh day. Their arancine (stuffed rice balls) are irresistible, and the shelves are filled with Sicilian ingredients and sweet cannoli that taste like holiday.
It’s family-run, friendly, and full of heart — everything you want in a local deli.
📍 6 Lady Road, EH16 5PA
Vegetarian and vegan options available
🔗 mizzicasiciliandeli.co.uk
Edinburgh’s Best Local Markets for Fresh, Scottish Produce
5. Edinburgh Farmers’ Market – Castle Terrace
If you want to experience true “farm-to-table” shopping, head to the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday from 9am–2pm on Castle Terrace.
Set beneath Edinburgh Castle, it’s one of the most picturesque markets in the country — and everything sold here is produced in Scotland. Expect seasonal fruit and veg, artisan bread, handmade chocolates, local honey, and top-quality meat and cheese.
📍 Castle Terrace, EH1
edinburghfarmersmarket.co.uk
6. Stockbridge Sunday Market
Every Sunday, the Stockbridge Market fills Saunders Street with colour and delicious smells. Local bakers, cheesemakers, and small producers sell everything from chutneys and jams to fresh seafood and vegan cakes.
Bring a tote bag, come hungry, and maybe grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafés — it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.
📍 Saunders Street, EH3 6TQ
Every Sunday, 10am–5pm
🔗 stockbridgemarket.com
7. Grassmarket Market – Old Town
If you’d like to mix your food shopping with a little sightseeing, the Grassmarket Market sits right under the shadow of the Castle. There’s local produce, handmade food, and plenty of crafts, all surrounded by Edinburgh’s most historic streets.
It’s a lovely spot for a wander — pick up lunch from a stall, then head up to Greyfriars Kirkyard or Victoria Street for a stroll.
📍 Grassmarket, EH1
8. Bonnie & Wild’s Scottish Marketplace – St James Quarter
For a more modern take on local food shopping, Bonnie & Wild is worth a visit. Inside the St James Quarter, this stylish food hall celebrates Scottish chefs, producers and small-batch artisans.
You can sample, shop and dine all in one place — ideal if you’re short on time or shopping with family.
📍 Level 4, St James Quarter, EH1 3AE
🔗 bonnieandwildmarket.com
When to Visit
- Saturdays: Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (Castle Terrace)
- Sundays: Stockbridge Market (Saunders Street)
- All week: Deli-hopping across Stockbridge or the Old Town
Summer brings fresh berries, wildflowers and picnic supplies galore, while winter markets sparkle with festive preserves and hearty comfort food.
Why I Love Edinburgh’s Local Food Scene
There’s something about local food shopping that feels more personal. You chat to the people who actually made what you’re buying, hear where it came from, and taste the difference. Edinburgh’s independent delis and markets are full of that energy — a mix of heritage, creativity and community.
Whether it’s choosing cheese at Mellis, bread at Herbie’s or a handful of strawberries at the Farmers’ Market, you’re supporting local producers and discovering flavours that tell a story.
My Tips for Exploring
- Go early for the best selection.
- Bring a reusable bag (and a cooler if buying dairy/meat).
- Ask for tasting samples — most delis love to share!
- Combine your trip with a walk through Stockbridge or the Old Town.
- Mix & match: a deli for savoury, a market for sweet, a coffee shop for rest.
FAQ: Edinburgh’s Local Food Scene
What are the best delis in Edinburgh for local produce?
I.J. Mellis and Herbie of Edinburgh are local favourites for artisan cheese, bread and charcuterie.
Where can I find the best farmers’ markets in Edinburgh?
The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (Saturdays) and Stockbridge Market (Sundays) both feature local and seasonal Scottish produce.
Are there vegetarian or vegan-friendly delis in Edinburgh?
Yes — Mizzica Sicilian Deli and Bonnie & Wild’s Marketplace both have excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
What’s the best time to visit?
Go early (9–10am) for the widest selection. Stockbridge Market gets busy by lunchtime.
A Perfect Edinburgh Foodie Trail
Start your morning at the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market under the Castle → stroll down to the Grassmarket → hop on the bus to Stockbridge for Mellis, Herbie’s and UnKnownItaly → finish your day with a Sicilian treat from Mizzica.
A full day of local flavour — and plenty of delicious memories!
