Fava Restaurant - Greek Kitchen Edinburgh Reviews

Okay, friend, let’s talk about Fava Restaurant – the Greek Kitchen in Edinburgh. You know that moment when you’re starving, but you also want to feel fancy? Fava is the answer, and it comes with a side of expectations.

I walked in on a rainy Tuesday, ready for comfort. The place smells like olive oil and warm bread, which is basically my love language. Seriously, the aroma alone could cure a bad day.

First thing: the staff. They’re not just nice; they’re aggressively nice. Like, “are you an old friend I forgot about?” nice. It’s disarming in the best way.

They sit you down with a menu that’s a novel of deliciousness. You’ll flip back and forth, questioning every life choice. “Should I get the moussaka or the lamb?” It’s a first-world problem, I know.

Let’s talk starters, because this is where the magic happens. Their spanakopita is a golden, flaky hug. It’s buttery, salty, and full of spinach – the kind of thing you eat while trying to be polite, but failing.

Then there’s the tzatziki. Oh, the tzatziki. It’s so thick and herby you might cry a little. I actually scraped the bowl with my bread. No shame in my game.

Now, the main event: Moussaka. It arrives like a little brick of pure umami. Layers of potato, eggplant, and spiced meat, topped with a creamy béchamel that’s slightly burnt on top. Perfection.

One bite and you’ll forget you’re in Edinburgh. You’re suddenly on a Greek island, wearing a linen shirt you don’t own. The portion? It’s generous – almost suspiciously so. You’ll need a doggy bag or a stretchy waistband.

If you’re a lamb fan, their kleftiko is slow-cooked to the point of absurdity. It falls apart with a spoon. It’s so tender it might as well be butter. I almost whispered “thank you” to the lamb. Almost.

Fava Restaurant - Greek Kitchen, Edinburgh - Restaurant menu, prices

But let’s be real about the vibe. Fava isn’t a quiet, romantic cave. It’s lively, a little bit loud, and full of happy chatter. If you want whispering with your wine, go elsewhere. This is a party for your taste buds.

What about the wine list? It’s all Greek, obviously. They push you toward the Assyrtiko, which is crisp and bright. It’s the perfect antidote to the rich, garlicky food. Trust them on this one.

Now, the pricing – because nobody likes surprises. It’s not cheap, but it’s not rip-your-face-off expensive. Think “special treat” budget, not “Tuesday night beans on toast” budget. You’ll get value for your cash.

But what do the other reviews say?

I read a bunch online to fact-check my own enthusiasm. People are obsessed. One review said the moussaka “changed their life.” That’s a lot of pressure for a casserole, but okay.

Another person complained about the wait time on a Saturday. Look, if you go at peak time, bring patience. Or bring a book. Or just embrace the chaos and order another drink.

Some folks rave about the grilled octopus. I haven’t tried it yet, but apparently it’s so tender it’s almost a joke. It’s on my list for next time, right next to “try not to eat all the bread.”

One review called the desserts “unnecessary but welcome.” I love that. After the meal, you’re full, but a baklava appears and you suddenly have a second stomach. Honey and nuts, baby. It’s a trap and you’ll fall for it.

Fava Restaurant - Greek Kitchen, Edinburgh - Restaurant menu, prices

The service gets a gold star in almost every review. People mention the staff remembering them from previous visits. That’s the kind of loyalty that makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time.

The one consistent complaint?

Parking. Oh, the parking in Edinburgh is a nightmare. Fava is on a busy street, so don’t drive unless you enjoy circling for 20 minutes. Walk, bus, or Uber. Your blood pressure will thank you.

Another tiny gripe: the lighting is a bit dim for reading the menu. But honestly, that just adds to the “vibe you can’t see your food” aesthetic. You’ll manage.

Overall, the consensus is clear: Fava is a gem. It’s not trying to be a stuffy Michelin star place. It’s a Greek mama’s kitchen, but amplified and made a little boozy.

You want my final verdict, right? Go. Go with a hungry belly and an open mind. Don’t skip the starters, and definitely don’t skip the baklava. Your future self will high-five you.

Is it the best Greek food in Scotland? Probably. Is it the most fun? Absolutely. So text your friend, book a table, and prepare to leave smelling like garlic and happiness. You’re welcome.

P.S. If you see the lamb on the specials board, order it immediately. Don’t think. Just do it. Your taste buds will send you a thank-you card later.