Our Story

A Tapestry of Taste and Tradition
Carrying the Soul of Anatolia to the Heart of the Royal Mile.

Chef plating an Anatolian dish

The Art of Turkish Hospitality

Discover the rich culinary heritage of Turkey, nestled just moments away from the Royal Mile. At Empires, we believe dining should be a memorable experience. Our kitchen prepares delicious, traditional home-cooked dishes daily, with a focus on the communal joy of Meze.

From sizzled seafood to vibrant vegan specialties, our menu is a love letter to fresh ingredients. To keep the atmosphere intimate and focused on the food, we offer a BYOB policy, allowing you to pair your meal with your own preferred drinks.

As the sun sets, our bohemian space transforms with the sounds of talented local musicians performing live Greek, Turkish, and acoustic sets. Looking for a unique venue? Our mezzanine provides the perfect setting for private parties of up to 16 people. Join us tonight and taste the true soul of Anatolia in the heart of Edinburgh.

What we keep close

Heritage

History on a plate: Anatolian grandeur meets family secrets, bridging the miles between Anatolia and Edinburgh.

Craft

Mezze hand-pounded daily; bread torn from a wood-fired oven each evening.

Hospitality

Step off the Royal Mile and into our open kitchen, where the only clock we follow is the soulful, unhurried rhythm of Anatolia.