Ka Pao Edinburgh is a restaurant in Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Rated 4.6 stars from 689 Google reviews. Known for inventive fusion small plates and authentic southeast asian spice and flavour. Best for lunch after shopping and groups and celebrations. Price range: €€.
Rankings updated June 2026
Ka Pao Edinburgh
| Rating | 4.6★ |
| Reviews | 689 |
| Best for | Lunch after shopping |
Quick Verdict
Ka Pao delivers inventive Southeast Asian fusion with authentic spice and unexpected flair, backed by attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere that justifies its loyal following.
You want inventive Southeast Asian fusion with authentic spice in a refined but relaxed setting, at prices that feel like a real treat.
About Ka Pao Edinburgh
Ka Pao Edinburgh is a Southeast Asian fusion restaurant in Grassmarket that marries fine-dining refinement with tapas-style informality and modest pricing. Across 689 reviews, diners consistently praise the inventive small plates—corn ribs, ox tongue, pork skewers, beef tartare—and curries that blend authentic spice with unexpected ingredients. The lunch menu, around £25 per person, draws repeat visitors who describe flavours that "stay with you long after the meal" and dishes that evoke homemade Southeast Asian cooking. Service earns particular note: staff are described as accommodating, helpful, and attentive to special occasions, allergies, and families with young children. The restaurant's ability to handle large parties (groups of 8+) and deliver creative, thoughtfully composed dishes—including a signature 13-plate experience—positions it as a destination for both casual lunch and celebration dinners. Diners consistently return, citing the quality-to-value ratio and the restaurant's willingness to engage with feedback.
What Stands Out
Inventive fusion small plates
Diners praise unexpected dishes—corn ribs, ox tongue, beef tartare, pork skewers—as 'stunningly refined' and 'wildly enthusiastic' standouts that blur fusion boundaries.
Authentic Southeast Asian spice and flavour
Multiple reviewers note curries and dishes that 'taste great', with flavours that 'transport you' and evoke homemade Southeast Asian cooking, particularly Thai and Sichuan influences.
Attentive, accommodating service
Staff are consistently described as 'helpful', 'friendly', 'super helpful', and accommodating to allergies, families with babies, large parties, and time-sensitive diners.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
Level 4, Ka Pao Edinburgh, St James Quarter, Edinburgh EH1 3AE, United Kingdom
+44 131 385 1040Visit WebsiteView MenuFrequently Asked Questions about Ka Pao Edinburgh
Yes. The restaurant handles large parties well—reviewers praise service during birthday dinners and office celebrations. Staff are attentive and the menu offers variety for shared dining and signature tasting experiences.
Around £25 per person for lunch, with small plates and sharing options. Reviewers consistently describe it as excellent value for the quality and fine-dining atmosphere.
Most dishes feature bold Southeast Asian spice, particularly Thai and Sichuan flavours. Reviewers recommend the pad kra pao and curries for those who enjoy heat; milder options like the cucumber salad and some starters are also available.
Yes. The restaurant is described as family-friendly and accommodating to young children, including providing hot water for bottles and managing prams thoughtfully.
Corn ribs, ox tongue, pork skewers, beef tartare, pad kra pao, curries (especially crab curry), and the cucumber salad are frequently highlighted. The signature 13-plate experience is also praised for creativity and flavour.
Service is consistently praised as friendly, quick, and attentive. Staff are noted for being helpful with menu guidance, accommodating allergies, and responsive to feedback.
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