If you ever find yourself on Inglis Green Road in Edinburgh, hungry for something authentic, hearty, and full of flavor, Imperial Palace is the kind of place you don’t just stumble upon-you remember. Tucked away at 36 Inglis Green Rd, this Cantonese gem is the go-to spot for those in the know when it comes to dim sum, hot pots, and traditional Chinese cuisine served with soul.
Walking into Imperial Palace, you’re immediately greeted by an atmosphere that feels as though it’s been crafted for comfort dining. Spacious, lively, and unmistakably popular, especially around lunch and dinner hours, this place draws in families, solo diners, and groups of friends with one thing in common-they’ve come for real food. The dining room offers wheelchair-accessible seating and a thoughtful layout that accommodates everyone comfortably.
Start with the Dim Sum Combo Platter, a stellar introduction to their bite-sized artistry. It’s a medley of steamed and fried parcels that range from pork dumplings to soft buns filled with salted duck egg custard-sweet, savory, and nostalgic. Speaking of buns, their fluffy, golden Char Siu Roast Pork Buns are another hit-balanced in sweetness and meatiness.
But Imperial Palace isn’t just about dim sum. For mains, you’re looking at an extensive menu that pays homage to both crowd favorites and traditional dishes you rarely see done right elsewhere. The Fried Ho Fun with Char Siu Roasted Pork Belly & Roasted Duck is a standout. The wok hei on the noodles-smoky and caramelized-is unmistakable. Paired with crispy duck skin and juicy roast pork, it’s indulgent in the best way.
Then there’s the Braised Deep Fried Monk Fish with Tofu & Pork Mince-a dish that sounds humble on paper but arrives rich in umami, softly braised, and perfectly portioned. For spice chasers, the Kung Po Duck with Cashew Nuts hits all the right notes: crispy skin, sticky-spicy glaze, and enough heat to tingle without overpowering. And don’t miss the Drunken Chicken if you enjoy a chilled starter that’s deeply aromatic with Chinese wine.
What makes the experience even more enjoyable is their tea selection. Many places serve tea as an afterthought. Not here. The staff actually recommend the perfect brew for your dishes. A pot of jasmine or oolong pairs beautifully with the rich and bold flavors on offer. Not into tea? They serve alcohol, spirits, beer, and wine, so there’s something for everyone, even if you’re just in for a quick bite or late-night snack.
The service is quick and no-fuss, just how you want it when you’re deep into a bowl of hot and sour soup or slowly working through your way through a steamed sea bass in black bean sauce. That dish, by the way, is one of their best-kept secrets-fresh, flaky, and perfectly balanced in salinity and umami.
If you're a fan of texture, the deep-fried shredded squid and turnip cake offer contrasting but equally satisfying mouthfeels. The squid is golden and crispy, while the turnip cake is soft on the inside, crispy on the edges, with that delicate radish aroma shining through.
In terms of accessibility, Imperial Palace covers all bases-from wheelchair-friendly entrances and car parks to on-site dining and takeaway options, making it easy whether you're planning a casual weekday lunch or a spontaneous dinner feast.
For those who love exploring authentic Chinese cuisine beyond the usual takeout staples, Imperial Palace opens the door to a more complete experience-texturally rich, boldly flavored, and endlessly satisfying.
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