Roseleaf
23-24 Sandport Place
Leith, Edinburgh
What is it: I enjoy my wee jaunts down to Leith. It's jam-packed with great pubs, bars and restaurants, which all have something for everyone. Roseleaf was once The Black Swan, a classic Leith boozer. The decor is as eclectic and unexpected as the food and drink. The place is small and intimate but perfectly formed, combining mismatched Victorian furniture with a more traditional public house feel. The walls are covered with prints and paintings by local artists, and there are hats everywhere which you can wear to create your own Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.
Interesting fact: Ever enjoyed a splash of lime cordial in your pint or vodka and soda? Well, global brand Rose’s lime cordial was created in Leith on Commercial Street in 1868. It was the world's first concentrated bottled fruit juice drink and was shipped out all over the world from Leith docks. Creator Lauchlan Rose patented the method used to preserve citrus juice without alcohol in 1867. He had realised that by preserving with sugar rather than alcohol it opened a product up to a far wider market.
Verdict: There are so many good places to go to now in Leith, it's amazing to see this once run-down part of the capital rise become one of the best places in Scotland for food and drink. Roseleaf has built up a loyal following and for good reason, they have put a lot of effort into pushing the food side of their business and it seems to have paid off: a good modern pub that seems a hit with the locals.
Drink: Good selection of beers, wines and spirits. They also do a selection of “pot-tails”: cocktails served up in chintzy teapots. The knowledgeable staff were happy to talk me through the drinks on offer.
Food: Tasty-looking selection of gastro-pub style food. On my visit it was full of folks enjoying the menu. I was boring and went for a burger (£9.95), which was very tasty.
Prices: Good value.
Children: Welcome, and there's a nice kids' menu on offer.
Alfresco: Possibly a bit of space out front for a few tables and chairs when there is some sunshine on Leith.
Perfect for: Heading in on a Sunday afternoon for some decent grub and a couple of pints.
Avoid if: You prefer your drinking establishments more spacious.
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