The Best Restaurants in Leith, Edinburgh: A Culinary Journey Through The Shore and Beyond

Leith has transformed from a historic port district into one of Edinburgh's most exciting culinary destinations, with The Shore area at its heart offering an impressive variety of dining experiences. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming bistros and cozy pubs, Leith's restaurant scene caters to every palate and budget while maintaining a distinctive local character that sets it apart from other Edinburgh neighborhoods. What makes this waterfront district particularly special is how its rich maritime heritage blends seamlessly with contemporary dining innovations, creating a unique gastronomic landscape where historic buildings house world-class restaurants.

The Shore: Leith's Culinary Heart

The Shore area of Leith represents the historic and cultural heart of this vibrant district. Dating back to the 12th century when it served as Scotland's gateway to the world, this waterfront locale has evolved from a bustling trading port to a sophisticated dining destination. With the Water of Leith flowing gently alongside renovated warehouses and heritage buildings, the area provides a picturesque backdrop for some of Edinburgh's finest restaurants.

What makes The Shore particularly special is its transformation from a commercial harbor to a culinary haven while preserving its authentic character. The area has witnessed significant historical events, including the "Rough Wooing" of 1544 when English ships unloaded artillery on its quayside. Today, these historic buildings house restaurants that reflect both Leith's rich past and its exciting culinary present, making dining here not just a meal but an immersion in centuries of Scottish heritage.

Michelin-Starred Excellence

The Kitchin

Located at 78 Commercial Quay, The Kitchin stands as a testament to culinary excellence in Leith. Founded and led by renowned Scottish chef Tom Kitchin, this Michelin-starred restaurant has firmly established itself as one of Scotland's finest dining destinations. The restaurant's philosophy of "From Nature to Plate" isn't just a catchphrase but a genuine commitment to showcasing the finest Scottish ingredients through sophisticated French techniques.

The Kitchin occupies a converted whisky warehouse, skillfully balancing industrial heritage with refined elegance. The restaurant's interior features exposed stone walls and thoughtfully designed spaces that create an atmosphere of understated luxury. Chef Kitchin's dedication to seasonal Scottish produce is evident in signature dishes that might include hand-dived Orkney scallops, North Sea cod, or Highland venison, depending on what's at its peak freshness.

Beyond the exceptional food, The Kitchin offers impeccable service that manages to be both professional and warmly Scottish in character, making a meal here a complete experience that justifies its Michelin recognition.

Restaurant Martin Wishart

At 54 The Shore, Restaurant Martin Wishart has maintained its position as one of Scotland's culinary landmarks since earning its Michelin star. Chef Martin Wishart pioneered fine dining in Leith, opening his eponymous restaurant in 1999 when the area was still in the early stages of regeneration.

The restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience that balances classical French techniques with the finest Scottish ingredients. The elegant dining room creates a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere where the focus remains firmly on the exceptional food. Wishart's innovative approach to classic dishes has earned him a reputation as one of Scotland's most accomplished chefs.

What sets Restaurant Martin Wishart apart is its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence while continually evolving its offerings. The tasting menus showcase the chef's technical mastery and deep understanding of flavor combinations, with dishes that might include butter-poached lobster, seared foie gras, or perfectly prepared game in season.

Heron

A more recent addition to Leith's Michelin-starred establishments, Heron at 87-91A Henderson Street has quickly established itself as a must-visit dining destination. This restaurant represents the new wave of Scottish fine dining, with a more relaxed atmosphere than its Michelin peers while maintaining exceptional culinary standards.

Heron's approach combines Scottish produce with global influences, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising. The restaurant's waterside location complements its focus on Scottish seafood, though the menu celebrates all aspects of Scotland's natural larder.

The interior design reflects contemporary Scandinavian influences, with natural materials, clean lines, and a connection to the waterfront setting. This creates a dining environment that feels both special and approachable, attracting food enthusiasts who appreciate excellence without formality.

Historic Establishments with Character

Nobles

Nobles at 44A Constitution Street represents the perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary culinary excellence. Housed in a beautiful Victorian building with stunning stained glass windows that date back to the 19th century, this award-winning gourmet pub has become a beloved fixture in Leith's dining scene.

The interior preserves many original architectural features while creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. The high ceilings, ornate cornicing, and vintage photographs of Leith create a sense of connection to the area's rich heritage.

Nobles' menu focuses on fresh, local produce prepared with skill and imagination. The kitchen team delivers sophisticated pub classics alongside more adventurous offerings, all showcasing quality Scottish ingredients. Their Sunday roasts have developed a particularly strong following among Edinburgh residents, often requiring advance booking to secure a table.

What truly sets Nobles apart is how it balances being a proper neighborhood pub with offering genuinely excellent food, creating a space where casual drinks and memorable meals can happen with equal success.

The King's Wark

With a history stretching back to the 1400s, The King's Wark at The Shore represents one of Leith's most historic dining establishments. This building has witnessed centuries of Leith's development, and today houses a highly regarded restaurant serving quality Scottish cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce.

The King's Wark's ancient stone walls and cozy interior create an atmosphere that's impossible to manufacture, with the weight of history evident in every beam and corner. Despite its historical significance, the restaurant maintains a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere that makes it popular with locals and visitors alike.

The menu showcases Scottish classics alongside more contemporary dishes, all built around quality ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers. The seafood offerings are particularly noteworthy, reflecting Leith's maritime heritage with dishes featuring the freshest catches from Scottish waters. Paired with an excellent selection of ales, wines, and Scottish whiskies, a meal at The King's Wark offers a genuine taste of Leith's past and present.

The Ship on The Shore

Located at 24-26 Shore, The Ship on The Shore has established itself as one of Leith's premier seafood destinations. This restaurant and bar occupies a prime position on the waterfront, with its nautical-themed décor paying homage to Leith's maritime history.

The Ship specializes in Scottish seafood, celebrating the exceptional quality of produce from Scotland's coastal waters. Their seafood platters have become legendary – towering arrangements of lobster, crab, oysters, and other maritime delicacies that showcase the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality.

Beyond the excellent seafood, The Ship offers a welcoming atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between casual and special-occasion dining. The restaurant's champagne and seafood bar concept has proven particularly popular, creating a distinctive niche in Leith's dining landscape. Their commitment to sustainable seafood sourcing aligns with contemporary dining values while honoring Leith's fishing heritage.

Contemporary Dining Gems

The Little Chartroom

At 14 Bonnington Road, The Little Chartroom has quickly established itself as one of Leith's most exciting dining destinations since opening. This Nordic-style restaurant with MICHELIN Guide recognition brings a distinctive culinary voice to the area under the direction of its talented chef-proprietor team.

The restaurant features a pared-back, elegant interior design with the focal point being the open kitchen that runs along one side of the dining room. Counter seats are available for those who enjoy watching the culinary team at work, creating an immersive dining experience.

The Little Chartroom's tasting menu showcases exceptional Scottish ingredients prepared with technical precision and creative flair. The flavors range from subtle to bold while maintaining perfect balance, with dishes featuring quality Scottish produce like plump, buttery scallops. The restaurant's name reflects the owners' passion for sailing, with nautical touches subtly incorporated into the design.

What makes The Little Chartroom particularly special is the warm, personable service that accompanies the sophisticated food, creating a dining experience that feels both special and comfortable.

Barry Fish

A recent addition to Leith's dining scene, Barry Fish at The Shore represents chef Barry Bryson's vision for contemporary Scottish seafood. Opening in February 2025, this elegant restaurant has quickly garnered attention for its refined approach to seafood and its beautiful waterfront setting.

The restaurant's interior creates a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, with large windows offering views over the Water of Leith. The design combines contemporary elements with subtle references to Leith's maritime heritage, creating a space that feels both of-the-moment and connected to its location.

Barry Fish's menu showcases chef Bryson's technical skill and creative approach, with standout dishes including sea trout pastrami served with aioli, capers, and dried grapes, and expertly prepared octopus accompanied by whipped feta and persillade. The chocolate caramel dessert, featuring a dark chocolate outer layer with lighter chocolate inside and served with house-made fudge, demonstrates that the kitchen's talents extend beyond seafood.

The restaurant offers different menus throughout the day, including their "Big Snacks" menu available between 4:30pm and 6:30pm, making it accessible for various dining occasions.

Roseleaf Café

Established in 2007 in the space formerly occupied by the old Black Swan pub, Roseleaf Café at 23/24 Sandport Place has become one of Leith's most beloved casual dining spots. This quirky bar-café combines excellent food with distinctive character, creating a truly unique dining experience.

The interior decor sets Roseleaf apart, with vintage hats adorning the walls, retro teapots used for serving their signature "pot-tail" cocktails, and menus creatively crafted from old National Geographic magazines. This eclectic approach creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts diners at ease.

Roseleaf's menu focuses on quality comfort food with both traditional Scottish elements and international influences. Their brunch offerings are particularly popular, with dishes like "The Big Yin" – a comprehensive Scottish breakfast featuring proper pork sausages, Stornoway black pudding, crispy smoked streaky bacon, and homemade tattie scone. The café also caters well to dietary requirements, with good gluten-free options available.

Beyond the food, Roseleaf's friendly staff and community atmosphere have made it a neighborhood institution, beloved by locals and discovered with delight by visitors.

Pizza and International Flavors

Pizza Geeks

Located at 7 Commercial Street, Pizza Geeks brings creative, high-quality pizza to Leith's dining scene. This popular spot combines excellent wood-fired pizzas with a playful, geeky concept that sets it apart from standard pizza restaurants.

The restaurant's interior features subtle references to popular culture, creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere that appeals to diners of all ages. The team's passion for both pizza and geek culture is evident throughout the space and menu.

Pizza Geeks' offerings focus on quality ingredients atop perfectly crafted bases, with both classic combinations and more adventurous specials that often feature playful names referencing movies, games, and comics. Their commitment to quality is evident in the careful selection of both local and Italian ingredients.

What makes Pizza Geeks particularly special is their social conscience – their "Pizza for the People" initiative donates pizzas to those in need, embodying the community spirit that makes Leith's dining scene so distinctive.

Razzo Pizza

At 59 Great Junction Street, Razzo Pizza offers another excellent option for pizza enthusiasts in Leith. This neighborhood pizzeria focuses on authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas prepared with traditional techniques and quality ingredients.

The restaurant's warm, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for casual dining, with the wood-fired oven taking center stage in the open kitchen. The interior combines rustic elements with contemporary touches, creating a comfortable space for enjoying their excellent pizzas.

Razzo's menu centers around pizzas made with slow-fermented dough, San Marzano tomatoes, and carefully selected toppings that respect Italian traditions while incorporating some local Scottish ingredients. Beyond pizzas, they offer a selection of Italian antipasti, salads, and desserts that complete the dining experience.

The restaurant has built a loyal following among Leith residents who appreciate the authentic approach and consistent quality that makes Razzo Pizza a neighborhood favorite rather than just another pizzeria.

Cutting Chaii

Bringing the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to Leith, Cutting Chaii at 18-20 Salamander Street adds welcome diversity to the area's culinary landscape. The restaurant's name refers to the half-cups of chai tea commonly served on Indian railways, setting the tone for a dining experience that celebrates authentic, unfussy Indian cuisine.

The interior creates a colorful, vibrant atmosphere with design elements inspired by Indian street culture and railways. This creates an immersive environment that enhances the dining experience without falling into clichéd decorative tropes.

Cutting Chaii's menu focuses on small plates and street food classics, allowing diners to experience a wide range of flavors and textures. The kitchen team uses authentic techniques and spice blends to create dishes with genuine depth of flavor, moving beyond the standard curry house offerings to showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine.

What makes Cutting Chaii particularly special is how it combines authenticity with accessibility, creating a dining experience that feels both educational and thoroughly enjoyable for those new to regional Indian specialties as well as those familiar with the cuisine.

Kafeneion to Steki

At 52 Coburg Street, Kafeneion to Steki brings a taste of Greece to Leith's dining scene. This authentic Greek taverna offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and traditional cuisine that transports diners to the Mediterranean.

The restaurant's blue and white décor creates an instantly recognizable Greek ambiance, with photographs of Greek landscapes and traditional music enhancing the immersive experience. The friendly, family-run approach adds authenticity and charm to every aspect of the dining experience.

Kafeneion to Steki's menu features Greek classics prepared with authentic recipes and techniques. From mezze plates perfect for sharing to hearty moussaka and souvlaki, the offerings celebrate Greece's culinary heritage with dishes that feel both comforting and exciting. The restaurant also offers a good selection of Greek wines, ouzo, and other beverages that complement the food perfectly.

The restaurant has become particularly known for its warm hospitality and generous portions, creating an experience that embodies the Greek approach to dining as a social, community-focused activity rather than merely consumption.

Casual Dining and Bistros

Fishers Bistro

Located in a 17th-century signal tower at 1 Shore, Fishers Bistro represents one of Leith's classic dining establishments. This seafood restaurant combines historic charm with consistently excellent cuisine focused on Scotland's maritime bounty.

The restaurant's circular dining room creates a distinctive dining environment, with original stone walls and maritime artifacts establishing a connection to Leith's fishing heritage. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and special, making Fishers suitable for various dining occasions.

The menu celebrates Scottish seafood, with dishes that showcase the quality of ingredients through relatively simple, classic preparations that allow the natural flavors to shine. From Shetland mussels to East Lothian lobster, the offerings reflect Scotland's renowned seafood, complemented by a well-chosen wine list that features many seafood-friendly options.

Fishers' longevity in Leith's competitive dining scene speaks to its consistent quality and ability to evolve while maintaining its core identity as a restaurant that honors both its historic setting and Scotland's seafood traditions.

Dulse

At 102 Constitution Street, Dulse has established itself as a neighborhood restaurant with serious culinary credentials. Named after the edible seaweed found on Scottish shores, this restaurant celebrates local, seasonal ingredients prepared with skill and creativity.

The restaurant's interior creates a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere with natural materials, muted colors, and thoughtful lighting that makes the space feel welcoming throughout the day. The design is unfussy but carefully considered, letting the food take center stage.

Dulse's menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal availability, with a focus on Scottish produce prepared using both traditional and contemporary techniques. The restaurant particularly excels at seafood dishes, though the offerings extend to excellent meat and vegetarian options as well. The wine list focuses on natural and low-intervention wines that pair beautifully with the food.

What makes Dulse special is its neighborhood restaurant atmosphere combined with food of remarkable quality and precision, creating a dining experience that feels both comfortable and special.

Paloma

Located at 50-54 Henderson Street, Paloma brings Spanish and Mediterranean influences to Leith's dining scene. This vibrant restaurant offers a welcome contrast to the predominantly Scottish and seafood-focused establishments in the area.

The restaurant's bright, airy interior features colorful tiles, abundant plants, and a relaxed ambiance that immediately evokes Mediterranean warmth. The space is designed to accommodate both intimate dinners and larger social gatherings, reflecting the communal dining culture that inspires Paloma's concept.

The menu focuses on Spanish tapas and larger sharing plates, with authentic recipes using both imported Spanish ingredients and quality Scottish produce. House specialties include traditional paella, freshly prepared seafood dishes, and a selection of Spanish charcuterie and cheeses. The drinks menu features Spanish wines, sherries, and signature cocktails that complement the food offerings.

Paloma has quickly become known for creating a genuinely convivial dining atmosphere where the boundaries between courses blur in favor of a more relaxed, social approach to eating that captures the essence of Mediterranean dining culture.

Bijou

At 2 Restalrig Road, Bijou lives up to its name as a small but perfectly formed neighborhood bistro serving quality French-inspired cuisine. This intimate restaurant has developed a loyal following among Leith residents who appreciate its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant's small dining room creates an intimate setting with classic bistro décor including banquette seating, white tablecloths, and soft lighting that establishes a cozy, romantic atmosphere. The limited number of covers allows for attentive, personalized service that enhances the dining experience.

Bijou's menu features French bistro classics executed with skill and attention to detail, using quality Scottish ingredients wherever possible. From perfectly prepared steak frites to classic moules marinières, the offerings deliver authentic flavors without unnecessary embellishment. The concise but well-chosen wine list focuses on French regions with options available by the glass and bottle.

What makes Bijou particularly special is how it achieves a genuine French bistro experience while remaining thoroughly integrated into Leith's local dining culture, creating a restaurant that feels both distinctive and perfectly at home in its location.

Beyond The Shore: Nearby Culinary Destinations

While The Shore forms the heart of Leith's dining scene, excellent restaurants can be found throughout the wider area and just beyond Leith's boundaries. These establishments contribute to the district's reputation as a comprehensive culinary destination.

The Gardener's Cottage

Located at Royal Terrace Gardens, just a short journey from Leith, The Gardener's Cottage occupies a charming historic building in a picturesque garden setting. This restaurant pioneered the communal dining concept in Edinburgh, with long shared tables encouraging conversation between diners.

The restaurant's commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is absolute, with much produce coming from their own garden and trusted local suppliers. The fixed menu changes daily, reflecting what's at its peak freshness, with dishes that showcase natural flavors through thoughtful, often deceptively simple preparation.

The Gardener's Cottage creates a distinctive dining experience that feels both connected to Scottish culinary traditions and thoroughly contemporary in its approach to ingredients and sustainability.

SPRY

At 1 Haddington Place, SPRY offers a specialist wine bar and small plates concept that has attracted attention from Edinburgh's food and wine enthusiasts. This intimate venue focuses on natural, low-intervention wines paired with carefully crafted small plates.

The minimalist, Scandinavian-influenced interior creates a calm environment for exploring their excellent wine selection, with knowledgeable staff providing guidance without pretension. The food menu changes regularly, featuring seasonal ingredients prepared with precision and creativity to complement the wines.

SPRY represents the more cosmopolitan aspect of the area's food scene, connecting Leith to global dining trends while maintaining a distinctly local character through ingredient sourcing and personal service.

The Spence

Located at 39 St Andrew Square in central Edinburgh, The Spence provides a more formal dining option within reach of Leith. Situated within the Gleneagles Townhouse, this restaurant combines grand surroundings with contemporary Scottish cuisine.

The impressive dining room, with its domed ceiling and elegant proportions, creates a sense of occasion while the approachable menu keeps the experience from feeling stuffy. The kitchen team focuses on quality Scottish ingredients prepared with classical techniques and contemporary presentation.

The Spence offers Leith residents and visitors a taste of Edinburgh's city center dining scene, providing a contrasting experience to the more neighborhood-focused establishments in Leith itself.

Conclusion: Leith's Culinary Renaissance

Leith's transformation into one of Scotland's most exciting culinary destinations represents a remarkable evolution from its industrial and maritime past. The restaurants profiled here demonstrate the extraordinary diversity and quality available in this compact area, from Michelin-starred fine dining to authentic international cuisine and characterful neighborhood bistros.

What makes Leith's dining scene particularly special is how it balances innovation with tradition, international influences with Scottish heritage, and culinary excellence with community values. The historic buildings of The Shore now house world-class restaurants, while maintaining connections to the area's rich past through both their physical spaces and culinary approaches.

For visitors to Edinburgh seeking authentic dining experiences beyond the tourist trails of the Old and New Towns, Leith offers remarkable quality and variety in a more local, lived-in environment. For Edinburgh residents, the district provides a comprehensive dining landscape where everyday meals and special occasions can be celebrated with equal success.

As Leith continues to evolve, its restaurants remain committed to quality, community, and showcasing the best of Scottish produce alongside global influences. This balance of local character and international standards ensures that Leith's culinary scene will continue to thrive, offering exceptional dining experiences in one of Edinburgh's most characterful and historic districts.