La Locanda is a restaurant in Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Rated 4.6 stars from 1294 Google reviews. Known for handmade pasta and authentic italian cooking and legendary desserts. Best for special occasions and authentic italian dinner. Price range: €€.
Rankings updated June 2026
La Locanda
| Rating | 4.6★ |
| Reviews | 1,294 |
| Best for | Special occasions |
Quick Verdict
Authentic Italian dining in a tiny, charming space where fresh pasta, exceptional desserts, and genuine hospitality justify the devoted repeat-visitor base.
You want handmade Italian pasta and desserts in an intimate, warmly-run space—but book ahead, as it's very popular.
About La Locanda
La Locanda is a intimate Italian restaurant in Grassmarket that draws repeat visitors and travellers alike for its authentic, freshly-prepared cuisine and warm hospitality. With a 4.6-star rating across 1,294 reviews, the venue has built a devoted following around handmade pasta, standout desserts, and an Italian wine selection that regulars describe as unbeatable. The space is deliberately small—only a handful of tables—which creates a cosy, charming atmosphere where staff attention feels personal rather than transactional. Diners consistently praise the gluten-free pasta options, the quality of ingredients (fresh mozzarella di bufala, properly cooked ragù), and the care taken on special occasions, from complimentary bubbly on birthdays to handwritten dessert notes. The owner, Italian-born and welcoming, sets a tone that makes guests feel at home. Many visitors return multiple times during a single Edinburgh trip, citing the consistency of both food and service as the draw.
What Stands Out
Handmade pasta and authentic Italian cooking
Multiple reviews praise 'pasta cooked to the point' with 'exceptional ragù', 'pappardelle and traditional lasagne that was perfect', and 'some of the best Italian food I've had outside Italy'.
Legendary desserts
Desserts are described as 'truly legendary' and 'out of this world', with one regular noting they are a 'non-negotiable stop' every time they visit Edinburgh specifically for them.
Wine selection and Italian beers
Reviewers highlight 'unbeatable' wine selection and 'great selection of Italian beers', with staff demonstrating product knowledge.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
Frequently Asked Questions about La Locanda
Yes. Staff go out of their way for birthdays and celebrations—complimentary bubbly, candles on dessert, handwritten notes, and genuine warmth from every team member. One guest said the team made her mother 'feel like actual royalty'.
Yes. Multiple reviews stress it's 'very popular' and booking is essential, especially for dinner. Walk-ins may be accommodated during quieter seasons but shouldn't be relied upon.
Yes. The restaurant offers homemade gluten-free pasta and has been specifically recommended by coeliac diners for its quality and care with dietary requirements.
Intimate and charming. With only a few tables, the space feels cosy and personal rather than formal. Reviewers describe it as having 'so much charm', 'lovely atmosphere', and feeling like a friend's dining room.
Yes. Solo travellers report being seated immediately and receiving attentive, friendly service. Staff ask about dietary needs and make solo diners feel welcome.
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