For hundreds of years Leith was a port town and separate from the City of Edinburgh (which it only joined in 1920) and that commercial and industrial past has left its mark on the area. Leith has an attitude like nowhere else in the city. Indeed, it still has a stubborn, independent streak to this day.
The dockers and shipyards may now be mostly gone, but recent gentrification has seen families, young professionals, immigrants and students move to the area. Today you’ll be spoilt for choice with artisan cafes, bakeries and bars, fine dining and independent shops - not to mention an active creative scene.
Gritty, vibrant and changing for the better - just be careful not to run into Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting character Begbie.
Modern European eatery open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Montreal-style bagels in Scotland
Industrial Estate Brewery Taproom
Vintage boutique
Venue and Bar
Gourmet Burgers & Beers
Intimate Asian Fusion
Sicilian Street Food
Nautical Cocktails
Barbers & Craic
Laid Back Bistro
Eateries & Drinkeries
An absolute Leith institution
Responsibly Sourced Boozer
Late Night Pies
Brunch Spot at The Shore
Sourdough Breads, Pastries and Doughnuts
Flagship Coffee
The Best Brunch. Period.
Antiques & Vintage
Historic Italian Food
The best sourdough pizza
Speciality coffee
Big Hot Focaccia Sandwiches
Alain wanted to bring his authentic, original Sicilian street food to Edinburgh, knowing once people tried it they’d be hooked. Customers come for the Arancino (deep-fried risotto stuffed with mozzarella) and once they’ve tasted this, they return for the pizza and the cannoli.
Alain’s favourite is the Rustico – stuffed with fried aubergines. Although this reviewer is enamored with the Arancino Al Ragu – bursting with a bolognese sauce.
Everything is made fresh from scatch, every day. It’s a small place with a just a few tables to sit-in, while also being a decent option to grab a take away.
