Lupe Pintos is so much more than a deli, with all the unusual and hard-to-find international ingredients crammed in it, it's an Aladdin's cave of food.
This tiny shop in the Tollcross neighbourhood is an Edinburgh institution and my go-to spot for Mexican sauces, American candy, Spanish wines and Indian spices.
But it's also, literally, so much more than a deli. They've two cookbooks, and quite the collection of recipes on their website or leaflets that can be picked up in store. I have never looked for another chili recipe since I discovered theirs. They also run tasting evenings and cook-off competitions that are great opportunities to meet like-minded foodies and adds to the community feel the shop has. It is the same staff that has served me for the past 17 years, getting to know what I like and suggesting new ingredients or recipes to try each time I'm in the shop.
The only problem is trying to limit my trips to the store as I could work my way through a bag of their tortilla chips a day if I let myself. And their homemade salsa and guacamole are phenomenal!
The stock varies slightly depending on what is available, but it is always possible to request items or find out when they will next be in store.
Lupe Pintos perfectly combines my love of food and travel - heaven!
Find your way with 138 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Scottish Design Exchange" is in Edinburgh's Leith, hidden in a shopping mall called Ocean Terminal. It's not high concept, it's things you'd actually buy.
by
"Sabzi" in Edinburgh used to be a Blockbuster video store, then it became a pop-up restaurant. Now it serves wonderful heart-warming Punjabi street food!
by
"Green. Leith" is a refreshing and colourful addition to the well-known street in Edinburgh. They really take green plants & accessories to a new level!
by
"S. Luca" has been one of my favorite places in Edinburgh since I was a kid. What they're famous for is their own brand of ice cream - and I love it!
by
I have to confess I've walked past the spot thousands of times before I actually realised it was anything to pay attention to!
by
The "Leith Victoria Swim Centre" in Edinburgh is a beautiful pool surrounded by an ornade, Baroque, cast-iron colonnade. Well worth a visit!
by
"Manna House Bakery" in South Queensferry in Edinburgh has great views over the Forth Rail Bridge. Come here for the super value-for-money homemade food!
by
Craiglockhart Hill is one of Edinburgh's 7 hills. In contrast to Calton Hill, Castle Hill and Arthur's Seat, even many locals can't name this one!
by
The zoo is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. Next to it is "Corstorphine Hill" that's in my opinion much more interesting to explore!
by
"Little Free Library" in Edinburgh is a project for neighbourhood book exchanges. It has really caught on here -- look for the birdhouse mini libraries!
by
The "Antony Gormley Sculptures" are six human-like statues across Edinburgh. Four of them are actually in the river! I love introducing visitors to them...
by
138 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 138 Insider Tips