Business Details
Award-Winning Family-Run Restaurants in Edinburgh
Contini is an independent, award-winning family-run business with a heritage spanning over a century. Established by Italian immigrants in the early 1900s, we have dedicated ourselves to sharing our passion for authentic cuisine while prioritising sustainability and community. Our three Edinburgh-based venuesCannonball Restaurant, Contini George Street, and The Scottish Cafe & Restaurantsource seasonal produce from over 70 Scottish suppliers and select Italian ingredients to create menus that celebrate both cultures.We hold Slow Food Movement values, maintain a one-acre kitchen garden, and operate with a commitment to fair work practices and environmental responsibility. With accolades for our culinary excellence and sustainable practices, we offer private dining, events, and a Contini Academy to nurture talent within the hospitality industry.
Services
Restaurant dining
Private events
Catering services
Gift vouchers
Online shop
Details
- Year established: 1900
Highlights and features
- Third-generation family business with deep culinary heritage
- Sourcing from over 70 Scottish suppliers and Italian artisans
- Award-winning sustainable practices and kitchen garden
- Private dining and event spaces across three iconic venues
- Commitment to fair work principles and team development
What people say
Phenomenal food
Immaculate service
Stunning views
Seasonal ingredients
Knowledgeable staff
Services
Restaurant dining
Our restaurants offer seasonal menus showcasing Scottish and Italian cuisine across three Edinburgh venues. Each location provides distinct atmospheresfrom historic charm to modern elegancewhile maintaining a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests enjoy meticulously crafted dishes that reflect both regional traditions and contemporary culinary techniques.
Private events
Contini provides exclusive event spaces for weddings, corporate functions, and celebrations. Venues include a 17th-century townhouse with castle views, a Florentine-inspired banking hall, and a gallery-side restaurant. Our team offers tailored menus, whisky tastings, and flexible layouts accommodating 10300 guests with bespoke service.
Catering services
We deliver premium catering featuring seasonal Scottish and Italian ingredients for private functions and corporate events. Menus include traditional dishes like Cullen Skink and handmade pasta, with options for formal dinners, buffets, and festive celebrations. Our team ensures presentation aligns with our restaurants' culinary standards.
Gift vouchers
Digital and physical gift vouchers provide flexible dining experiences across our three venues. Available from 30, they can be redeemed for meals, tasting menus, or special events. E-gift cards offer instant delivery while physical vouchers maintain a traditional presentation for gifting purposes.
Online shop
Our online store offers artisan Italian and Scottish products, including olive oils, wines, and seasonal ingredients. Customers can purchase the Contini Cookbook featuring 100 family recipes or select pre-prepared meals for home dining. The shop supports nationwide delivery with curated gift options available.
People
Victor Contini
Co-Owner
Third-generation restaurateur with over 30 years in hospitality. Sustains family legacy through ethical sourcing and kitchen garden initiatives. Holds leadership roles in Edinburgh's culinary community.
Carina Contini
Co-Owner
Third-generation leader focused on sustainable practices and team development. Represents Contini in media and industry forums. Manages supplier relationships and menu innovation across venues.
Questions
What cuisines do Contini restaurants offer?
We serve Italian cuisine at Contini George Street, modern Scottish dishes at The Scottish Cafe, and seasonal European fare at Cannonball Restaurant.
Do you offer private dining options?
Yes, all three venues provide private dining spaces with tailored menus for events ranging from 10 to 300 guests.
Are your menus seasonal?
All menus change seasonally, featuring produce from our kitchen garden and 70+ Scottish suppliers, supplemented by Italian ingredients when necessary.
Do you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes, we offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options across all menus while maintaining culinary authenticity.
What sustainability initiatives do you implement?
We maintain a one-acre kitchen garden, use zero-waste practices, partner with local producers, and hold Slow Food Movement accreditation for sustainable sourcing.
Can I purchase gift vouchers?
Yes, digital and physical vouchers from £30 are available online or in-restaurant for dining experiences across all venues.
Reviews (5)
Chaz Carstairs
Jan 20, 2022
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Had a double date here and it was really nice. We were surprised there was no pizza for an Italian restaurant but the pastas that we ordered were delicious. We all had 3 courses and each were very tasty. Very grand building and a nice setting. The staff were very attentive, although we would have liked a warning of when they would be closing instead of them just bringing the bill to us and basically throwing us out. Speaking of bill, we thought that it was very expensive, especially comparing it to Amarone on the other end of George Street. Also wasnt a fan of how the menus where just left on
Tin Chi Fung
Dec 23, 2021
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Excellent restaurant with wonderful atmosphere, helpful waiters, delicious food and reasonable price.
Steph
Dec 18, 2021
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I'm not a fan of eating Italian cuisine in a restaurant, I find it a bit boring and overpriced. Contini changed my opinion, the dishes they offer are different and felt a bit more upmarket. The burrata starter was amazing, absolutely loved the combination of flavours. The main course wasn't as good but was still tasty. The prosecco was overpriced at 36 per bottle, I'm not sure why it's been priced so high considering everywhere else seems to sell it for less than 30. The service and atmosphere was great.
Victoria Johnson
Nov 06, 2021
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We've been to this restaurant many times in the past years but this is a whole new experience. Drinks were excellent but the rest was a real disappointment. First we ordered fish which came bland and bitter. Usually I don't send the food back but it was inedible. It was then replaced with another meal of our at our request, but turned out just as bad. We received no apology, no complimentary drink or snack. NOTHING. We were charged the full amount including service charge. It's a real shame because the venue is beautiful and the prices are not low. But the owners should really reconsider their
Cindy Sousa
Oct 21, 2021
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Wonderful experience at this place. Really friendly staff and food was delicious. I unfortunately didn't have space left for dessert after a starter and a main. Portions are nice and the cocktails are very good (definitely recommend the mojito!). Worth it!
