Charming Wind in the Willows-themed spot serving modern Scottish dishes with strong cocktails and polished plating; food impresses most diners, though service can wobble at peak times and prices are premium for portion size.
Badger & Co exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like steak and peppercorn pie and scallops with haggis accents, paired with distinctive setting appeal that captures the whimsy of its Wind in the Willows theme without sacrificing polish. Warm, attentive service and consistent execution across most dimensions position it among Edinburgh's finest modern Scottish dining destinations, though occasional peak-time delays and refined portions prevent higher distinction.
Set on Castle Street in New Town, Badger & Co pairs modern Scottish cooking with a playful nod to Kenneth Grahame, and the room feels warm and whimsical without tipping into kitsch. Service is often praised as warm and attentive, and one diner captured the vibe perfectly: "Gentle buzz, polished plates, and staff who actually seem happy you came." Most nights bring a lively but relaxed hum; off-season can be pleasantly quiet. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: classic flavors with modern twists like miso gravy, squid ink tuille, and dukkha crumb. Signatures that keep coming up include the steak and peppercorn pie, crisp fish and chips, pork croquettes, scallops with haggis accents, and a sticky toffee finale. Portions skew refined rather than hefty and prices are premium for the area, but many guests feel quality and execution justify the spend. Families find a welcome here, with staff generally kind to kids and even dogs; menu-wise, the safer picks are fish and chips, the wagyu burger, and mac and cheese from the sides. Adventurous mains (venison, wellington, tartare) may be a stretch for picky eaters, and the modern style means smaller portions than pub classics. If dining with youngsters, consider early bookings and those approachable dishes.
Area vibe: Elegant commercial spine of New Town near Princes Street; draws shoppers, office workers, and visitors seeking classic Edinburgh charm.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic; typical central-city bustle.
What's nearby: Steps from Princes Street retail, George Street bars, hotels, and sights; easy pre- or post-theatre and shopping stop.
Warm, whimsical decor meets polished plates and a pleasant, lively hum at peak times.
Scallops, pork croquettes, steak pie and the 8 oz sirloin are recurring standouts with a sticky toffee dessert worth saving room for.
Smart casual is the norm, weekends fill up, and portions are often smaller than pub classics for the price.