Best South Indian Food in Edinburgh - Dosa, Idli, Vada & Filter Coffee

When you’re a South Indian living abroad, the craving for a crisp, golden dosa or a soft, fluffy idli hits hard. I’ve been there – standing in front of a supermarket shelf, staring at “idli mix” and wondering if it’s worth the gamble. But here’s the truth: Edinburgh has quietly become a little haven for South Indian food. From proper filter coffee to sambar that tastes like Amma made it, there’s real comfort here. Let me take you through the best spots, the hidden gems, and where to stock your own kitchen.

First stop: Dosa Express at 25 West Nicolson Street. Their masala dosa (£8.50) is a thing of beauty – thin, crispy, and served with a coconut chutney that’s fresh and not too sweet. The sambar is tangy, just how I like it. If you’re near the University, this is your go-to for a quick, affordable fix.

Next, Mithas on South Clerk Street. This place is a bit fancier, but their Mysore Masala Dosa (£10.50) is worth every penny. The red chutney inside gives it a lovely kick, and the potato filling is perfectly spiced. They also do a Rava Dosa (£9.50) that’s light and lacy – ideal for a weekend treat.

For a more traditional experience, Shahi Pakwan on Leith Walk serves a Ghee Roast Dosa (£9.00) that’s rich and indulgent. The ghee aroma hits you as soon as it arrives, and the portion is generous. Pair it with a side of their coconut chutney – it’s the real deal.

Idli and vada are breakfast staples, but in Edinburgh, you’ll find them best at Dosa Express (same place – yes, they do both). Their idli (£5.50 for two) is soft, spongy, and comes with a small bowl of sambar and chutney. The vada (£4.00) is crispy on the outside, fluffy inside – perfect for dunking.

For a weekend brunch, Mithas has a South Indian Breakfast Thali (£12.00) that includes idli, vada, dosa, and a small bowl of payasam. It’s a great way to sample everything. They also do a plain idli (£4.50) if you just want a quick bite.

If you’re near the University, Kismot on Nicholson Street occasionally has idli and vada on their specials board. It’s not always on the menu, so ask – but when they have it, it’s fresh and authentic.

Finding proper filter coffee in Edinburgh is like finding gold. But Mithas serves a decent South Indian filter coffee (£3.50) – strong, frothy, and served in a steel tumbler. It’s not perfect (the froth could be thicker), but it hits the spot.

For a more authentic experience, Dosa Express also does filter coffee (£3.00) that’s surprisingly good. It’s not as strong as what you’d get in Chennai, but it’s close. If you’re craving a real fix, ask for it “strong” – they’ll understand.

Sambar is the soul of South Indian food, and Edinburgh has a few places that nail it. Dosa Express has a sambar that’s tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with vegetables – it’s the best I’ve had here. Mithas comes a close second, with a sambar that’s a bit thicker and more lentil-heavy.

For a home-style sambar, try Shahi Pakwan – theirs is mild but flavourful, perfect if you’re not a fan of too much spice.

If you want to make your own dosa or idli at home, head to Star Cash & Carry on Leith Walk. They stock dosa batter (£3.50 for 1kg), idli rice, and fresh curry leaves. For coconut, Taza Supermarket on Clerk Street has frozen grated coconut and fresh coconut pieces. They also sell ready-to-eat sambar powder and rasam powder – a lifesaver for students.

For more tips, check out my guide on Indian Grocery Shopping in Edinburgh.

The South Indian student community in Edinburgh is active. Look up Edinburgh Tamil Association on Facebook – they host monthly potlucks and food events at the University of Edinburgh’s Chaplaincy Centre. Similarly, Kerala Association Edinburgh organises Onam Sadya and weekend brunches at local community halls.

These events are a great way to meet people and eat home-cooked food. The dosa and sambar there are often better than what you’ll get in restaurants – because it’s made with love.

For students on a budget, Dosa Express is your best bet – their dosa starts at £6.50 for a plain dosa, and the masala dosa is just £8.50. Kismot also does a basic dosa for £7.00, and their idli is £4.00.

If you’re really stretching your pounds, Taza Supermarket sells ready-made dosa batter for £3.50 – enough for 4-5 dosas. Pair it with a jar of coconut chutney (£2.50) and you’ve got a meal for under £6.

For more budget tips, read my guide on Budget Travel in Scotland for Indian Students.

Here’s my honest ranking:
- Best Dosa: Dosa Express (crispy, affordable, authentic)
- Best Filter Coffee: Mithas (close to the real thing)
- Best Sambar: Dosa Express (tangy, vegetable-packed)
- Best Grocery: Star Cash & Carry for batter and curry leaves; Taza for coconut and spices

If you’re new to Edinburgh and craving South Indian food, start with Dosa Express – it’s the closest you’ll get to home. And if you need a ride to any of these spots, just call me on WhatsApp +44 7555 574456 or email hello@indiansinscotland.com. I offer taxi and airport pickup services and can even arrange a Highlands tour if you want to explore Scotland between meals.

Happy eating, and don’t forget the filter coffee!