Amarone is a restaurant in Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Rated 4.4 stars from 4294 Google reviews. Known for ragu and beef shin and attentive, friendly service. Best for date night and groups 4–6. Price range: £20–30.
Rankings updated May 2026
Amarone
Quick Verdict
Amarone delivers honest Italian cooking, sharp cocktails, and genuinely attentive service in one of Edinburgh's most atmospheric neighbourhoods.
You want refined Italian cooking and attentive service in a beautiful Grassmarket setting without the premium price tag.
About Amarone
Amarone occupies a handsome corner of the Grassmarket with high ceilings and soft lighting that regulars return for again and again. The kitchen delivers on Italian fundamentals—risotto, ragu, pizza, and pasta—with a particular strength in showstopper mains like beef shin ragu and perfectly cooked steak. Service is notably attentive and friendly; staff move with purpose and anticipate needs without hovering. The wine list draws praise, and cocktails (especially mojitos) punch above the price point. At £20–30 per head, the value proposition is sharp: one reviewer noted a full three-course meal with alcohol for under £35pp. The 2-hour seating policy is a practical constraint for a high-demand Grassmarket spot, but turnover is swift. Decor is refined without pretension—think posh Italian rather than stuffy—and the space suits both intimate dates and group bookings of six or more.
What Stands Out
Ragu and beef shin
Multiple 5★ reviews single out the beef shin ragu and ragu dishes as standout mains; one reviewer called the ragu 'delicious'.
Attentive, friendly service
Consistently praised across reviews: staff are described as 'excellent', 'amazing', 'super nice', and 'on the ball', with one reviewer noting they ask frequently if guests need anything.
Value and atmosphere
One reviewer noted a full three-course meal with alcohol for under £35pp; decor is praised as 'beautiful', 'refined', and 'cozy', with high ceilings and soft lighting creating an inviting evening setting.
Practical Information
Contact
Frequently Asked Questions about Amarone
Yes. The refined decor, attentive service, and excellent cocktails make it a favourite for couples. One reviewer called it a place that 'makes date night 10x better'. The 2-hour seating window works well for an evening out.
Yes. Groups of 4–6 are well accommodated. One party of six praised the attentive staff and excellent food. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for weekends.
The beef shin ragu and risotto are standout mains. Starters like focaccia are excellent. The cocktails—particularly mojitos—are worth trying. The panettone dessert is highly recommended.
£20–30 per head. One reviewer achieved a full three-course meal with alcohol for under £35pp, indicating strong value for the quality and setting.
Yes, there is a 2-hour seating policy. Service is swift, so turnover is smooth and shouldn't impact your experience.
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