Edinburgh’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and for those who love variety, buffets offer the perfect dining experience. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just someone who enjoys a good meal, here’s our curated list of the top 5 buffets in Edinburgh, complete with timings, estimated costs, and available discounts.
1. COSMO Edinburgh – A Global Culinary Adventure
Located in the Omni Centre, COSMO offers an extensive range of over 150 dishes from around the world, including Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and British cuisines. Their live cooking stations and chocolate fountain add an interactive element to your dining experience.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM | £20.99
- Friday: 12:30 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £23.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12:30 PM – 9:30 PM | £22.99
Children under 155cm are charged at a reduced rate.
Discounts:
- Free Birthday Meal: Celebrate your birthday with a free meal when dining with at least 3 full-paying adults. Valid on your birthday or within 7 days before or after. Available Sunday to Friday. Advance online booking required with “Free Birthday Meal” noted in special requests. Proof of date of birth required.
- 10% Off: Available for students, NHS staff, emergency services, and armed forces personnel.
2. Mr Basrai’s World Cuisines – A Fusion Feast
Situated in Fountainbridge, Mr Basrai’s offers a vibrant atmosphere with a diverse menu that includes Indian curries, Italian pastas, Chinese stir-fries, and more. Their live grill stations and dessert bar make it a perfect spot for group outings.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Lunch:
- Monday – Thursday: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £15.99
- Friday: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £16.99
- Saturday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM | £17.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | £22.99
- Dinner:
- Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM | £21.99
- Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM | £22.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
Children 10 and under eat at half price; children aged 1 to 3 eat for £5.
Discounts:
- Free Birthday Meal: Enjoy a free meal on your birthday when dining with a group of 5 or more. Valid from 3 days before to 3 days after your birthday. Available Sunday to Friday. Proof of date of birth required.
- 15% Off: For students with valid ID, available Sunday to Friday.
- 10% Off: For NHS staff, emergency services, and armed forces personnel with valid ID, available Sunday to Friday.
3. China Red – Oriental Delights
Nestled on Grindlay Street, China Red boasts over 100 oriental dishes, from dim sum to sushi. The modern decor and spacious seating make it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and evening gatherings.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £16.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £20.99
- Friday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £17.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £21.49
- Saturday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £17.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM | £18.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
Children under 11 are charged at a reduced rate.
Discounts:
- Kids Eat for £1: From May 25 to June 29, 2025, one adult main entitles you to one children’s main for £1. Offer not available on Saturdays.
4. Beijing Banquet – Authentic Chinese Experience
Located in Sighthill, Beijing Banquet is renowned for its authentic Chinese cuisine. The buffet features a wide range of dishes, including crispy duck, sweet and sour chicken, and a selection of dim sum.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Saturday:
- Lunch: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | £17.99 (Mon–Thu), £18.99 (Fri–Sat)
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | £21.99 (Mon–Thu), £23.99 (Fri–Sat)
- Sunday & Bank Holidays:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM | £18.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | £23.99
Discounts:
- Birthday Spin the Wheel: Celebrate your birthday with a special spin-the-wheel offer on the day. One spin per birthday person.
- Check out their special Fathers’ Day Menu, special prices apply 15 June 2025.
5. Yes Sushi – Japanese Buffet Bliss
For sushi enthusiasts, Yes Sushi on Hanover Street offers an all-you-can-eat buffet that includes a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese hot dishes. The contemporary setting and fresh ingredients make it a popular choice among young diners.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
All-you-can-eat sushi and hotpot options are available, with prices around £17.99 per person.
Discounts:
- Birthday Discount: Enjoy a birthday discount on your special day with valid government photo ID. Discount applies only to individual buffet price. Visit in-store for more details.
Final Bites
Edinburgh’s buffet scene offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for global flavors at COSMO, the fusion delights of Mr Basrai’s, or the authentic tastes of China Red and Beijing Banquet, there’s something for everyone. For sushi lovers, Yes Sushi provides a delightful Japanese buffet experience.
For more insights into Edinburgh’s culinary landscape, especially from a Scottish-Indian perspective, visit scottishindian.com. Discover hidden gems, restaurant reviews, and food guides tailored for the modern diner.
*Note: Prices, timings, and discounts are subject to change
