Dinner and Guided Tour with your Personal Scottish Sommelier

When you’re exploring Edinburgh, it’s easy to focus on the well-known sights like Edinburgh Castle or the historic Old Town. But if you’re a foodie or someone curious about Scotland’s drink culture, you might find this Dinner and Guided Tour with your Personal Scottish Sommelier offers a delightful twist to your visit. It’s not your run-of-the-mill food tour — instead, it promises a tailored experience that combines the city’s best hidden culinary gems with expert insights into food and drink pairing.

What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, it’s completely customizable — your personal guide Joanne crafts the evening around your tastes, which makes each tour feel uniquely yours. Secondly, the private setting means you won’t be stuck in a large group — this is an intimate journey into Edinburgh’s secret food and drink spots, perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a more personal touch.

However, a potential consideration is the price—at $666 per person, this isn’t a budget experience. It’s an investment in a luxury, highly curated evening. So, it’s best suited for travelers who really want to indulge in Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

If you’re looking for a sophisticated, personalized, and memorable way to taste the city’s best offerings—paired with expert guidance—this tour could be just the thing. Let’s break down what you can expect and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Highly personalized experience tailored to your food and drink preferences
• Private tour with a knowledgeable Scottish sommelier and local guide
• Visits to hidden, off-the-beaten-path venues steeped in local culture
• Includes dinner, wine, whisky, and tastings—all included in the price
• Four-hour journey through Edinburgh’s culinary and historic gems
• Flexibility in stops and tasting options based on your interests and tastes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: A Deep Dive

The Concept and Who It’s For

This experience is designed to go beyond typical sightseeing by offering a personalized culinary adventure. Led by Joanne, an experienced guide and sommelier, it’s a mix of food tasting, whisky and wine education, and sightseeing—covering Edinburgh’s lively streets and quiet, tucked-away restaurants. The focus on customization means this isn’t a one-size-fits-all tour; instead, it’s shaped to match what you’re eager to explore, whether that’s whisky, wine, local delicacies, or secret eateries.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate quality and exclusivity—those willing to spend a bit more for a high-end experience. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating something special, a foodie eager to deepen your knowledge, or simply someone who wants an authentic, insider look at Edinburgh’s culinary scene.

How the Tour Works

The tour begins with a pickup from one of three convenient locations: W Edinburgh, Gleneagles Townhouse, or The Balmoral. Joanne then guides you through Edinburgh’s streets, taking you to hidden gems that are often reserved for locals or those in the know. Think of it as wandering with a knowledgeable friend who knows the city’s best-kept secrets.

Throughout the evening, you’ll enjoy a mix of sightseeing, tastings, and expert insights. The experience includes champagne tasting, food tastings, dinner paired with wine, cheese, and whisky tastings—all in carefully selected venues that highlight the city’s culinary excellence. The stops are planned but flexible, so if you’re particularly interested in whisky, Joanne will incorporate that into the evening, perhaps with tastings at cozy bars steeped in history.

The Stops and Their Significance

Sightseeing and Hidden Bars

The itinerary includes stops in Edinburgh’s historic and picturesque streets, giving you a chance to admire the city’s architecture and atmosphere while enjoying the taste of carefully curated food and drinks. The champagne and food tastings set the tone for a luxurious evening, and the visit to Edinburgh Castle offers a moment to soak in the views and history.

The Old Town Dinner and Wine Tasting

The highlight is the dinner in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where intimate restaurants showcase the city’s culinary flair. Your sommelier will guide you through wine pairings with local dishes, turning each bite into an exploration of Scottish ingredients and traditions. This part of the tour is often praised for its intimate ambiance and quality food.

Whisky and Cheese Tastings

Later in the evening, cheese and whisky tastings provide a perfect climax, allowing you to deepen your appreciation for Scotland’s famous spirits. The expert guidance from Joanne ensures you understand how to taste whisky like a pro, learning about the different types and the art of food pairing.

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Transport and Flexibility

Transportation is included within Edinburgh, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Joanne will meet you at your hotel, and the journey ends at one of the same three drop-off points, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

The tour lasts approximately four hours, which is a decent length to cover quite a bit without feeling rushed. It’s wheelchair accessible, which is a plus if you need accommodations.

Value for Money

At $666 per person, this experience falls into the premium category. When considering what’s included—dinner, all beverages, private transportation, and expert guidance—the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for a bespoke experience that’s crafted around your preferences, with the chance to discover Edinburgh’s culinary hidden treasures, taste exquisite wines and whiskies, and learn from a passionate local.

This isn’t a tour for budget travelers, but those who value quality, exclusivity, and personalized attention. The reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the “fantastic” food and drink experiences, making the cost feel justified for many.

What the Reviews Say

People rave about the stunning views and the chance to explore Edinburgh’s quieter corners. One reviewer noted, “Joanne’s knowledge and friendly approach made it feel like exploring with a friend,” highlighting the personal touch. Others appreciated the hidden bars and restaurants that they wouldn’t have found on their own, turning the evening into a real insider’s adventure.

Some mention that the experience is more than just a food tour—it’s educational, luxurious, and tailored. The only common concern is related to the price point; it’s definitely an indulgence, but one that’s often described as “absolutely worth it” for those seeking a high-end, authentic experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience offers a luxurious exploration of Edinburgh’s food and drink scene, perfect for those wanting a private, customized journey. If you’re a foodie eager to learn about Scottish cuisine, whisky, and wine, and prefer intimate, off-the-beaten-path venues, it’s a fantastic choice. The focus on expert guidance and local recommendations means you’ll come away with not just tasting notes but a deeper understanding of Scotland’s culinary traditions.

However, the cost means it’s best for travelers who see this as a special experience rather than an everyday activity. It’s ideal for celebrating something special or indulging in a truly memorable night out.

If you’re after a relaxed, flexible, and deeply personal way to taste Edinburgh’s flavors, this tour checks all those boxes. Just be prepared for a premium experience that values quality over quantity.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, since the experience is customized, it’s best to communicate your dietary preferences ahead of time. Joanne will try to accommodate your needs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Are beverages included?
Yes, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included, from champagne to whisky and wine.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Availability depends on the schedule, so it’s good to check in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Is transportation within Edinburgh arranged?
Yes, transportation is included during the tour, making it easy to move between venues comfortably.

What stops are included?
Stops include sightseeing, tastings (champagne, cheese, whisky), dinner with wine, and visits to hidden restaurants and bars.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private experience, tailored to your preferences.

Can children join?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18; it’s focused on adult beverages and experiences.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

All in all, this tour is a thoughtfully curated way to experience Edinburgh’s culinary scene through the eyes of a local expert. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sophisticated night out, it offers a memorable taste of Scotland—literally and figuratively.

You can check availability for your dates here: