The Piemaker

The Piemaker opened on South Bridge in 1995 and has become one of Edinburgh's most decorated independent food shops. It ranks first of 102 Edinburgh bakeries on TripAdvisor, holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating from 843 reviews, and earned Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice award. Google reviews average 4.6 out of 5.

The selection runs to more than thirty fillings, freshly baked throughout the day. The haggis pie, peppersteak pie, steak and ale pie, and macaroni pie are the recurring favourites in reviews — the haggis version blends haggis with creamy potato and a peppery finish. Vegan pies feature alongside the meat range, and sweet options (including cakes and doughnuts) extend the menu beyond savoury. Most pies are priced at £2-3, which makes the shop a value standout for its central position on the main route between Waverley Station and the University. Seating is limited to around six or seven bar stools; the overwhelming majority of trade is takeaway. A fixture with Edinburgh Festival performers and international visitors alike.