Leith

📍 4-16 Albert Street, Edinburgh, EH7 5LG

Transport yourself straight to the Mediterranean at The Sicilian Pastry Shop, a beloved family-run gem bursting with authentic Italian flavour. Famed for crafting what many consider the best cannoli outside of Sicily, this charming bakery offers an incredible array of traditional sweets and savoury bites. Experience exceptional value, passionate baking, and a wonderfully warm welcome in every single bite.

📍 32 Crighton Place, Edinburgh, EH7 4NY

Locals absolutely adore Gaia Italian Deli for its vibrant, authentic flavours and wonderfully welcoming family atmosphere. This delightful little café and deli is brilliantly stocked with exceptional imported meats, cheeses, and irresistible Italian treats. Stop by for a meticulously crafted coffee, enjoy their outstanding value menu of fresh, quality dishes, and soak up the sunshine in their colourful outdoor seating area.

📍 63 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA

A beloved Edinburgh institution, Mimi's Bakehouse is a wonderland of all things sweet and comforting. Located on the picturesque shores of Leith, this quirky, family-run bakery is legendary for its massive, indulgent portions and heartwarming atmosphere. Their iconic 'Beforenoon' and Afternoon teas are legendary among locals, featuring an ever-changing kaleidoscope of wildly creative cupcakes, gooey traybakes, and towering scones. Served alongside hearty savoury bites and piping hot tea or coffee, it provides a fun, relaxed, and incredibly delicious alternative to traditional formal dining.

📍 341 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 8SD

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Leith, Babyfaced Baker is an innovative coffee shop and bakery famous for its extraordinary vegan creations. With a mouth-watering array of inventive treats—from decadent Snickers buns to irresistible Biscoff cookies—there's always an exciting new seasonal surprise on offer. Enjoy the remarkably friendly vibe, snag some cool merchandise, and devour some of the best plant-based baking in town.

📍 42 Bernard Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6PR

Holding the prestigious title of Leith's oldest continuously operating pub, Carriers Quarters is a historic treasure that has been warmly welcoming patrons since 1785. This wonderfully snug and entirely unpretentious establishment retains a wealth of original period features, offering a genuine glimpse into Edinburgh's rich maritime past. Locals flock to this cozy haven not only for the perfectly poured pints of traditional Scottish ale but also for their legendary, home-baked steak pies—which are in such high demand they often sell out before dinner! The atmosphere transforms throughout the week, offering a peaceful, laid-back retreat for a quiet afternoon drink, before bursting into life on weekends with spirited, traditional live music sessions. If you are exploring the vibrant Shore area and desire a completely authentic, historic pub experience devoid of modern gimmicks, Carriers Quarters offers incredible heritage, fantastic food, and unbeatable, old-fashioned Leith hospitality.

📍 21-25 Duke Street, Edinburgh, EH6 8HH

Situated just a stone's throw from the leafy expanse of Leith Links, The Lioness of Leith masterfully reimagines the traditional Victorian pub concept for the modern era. This cult-favorite neighborhood hangout has been radically transformed with a funky, eclectic makeover, juxtaposing original historical architecture with vibrant contemporary art, neon accents, and plush, stylish furnishings. The bar features a highly impressive and diverse array of craft beers, premium international spirits, and wildly inventive cocktails that push the boundaries of standard pub fare. Beyond the exceptional drinks, The Lioness has carved out a fierce reputation across the city for its mouth-watering menu of gourmet, artisan burgers and indulgent loaded fries, catering brilliantly to both meat-lovers and vegans alike. Offering a perfect blend of relaxed daytime chilling and lively weekend energy, it is an essential, fiercely independent destination for anyone looking to experience Leith's thriving, contemporary social scene.