As a resident of Leith Walk, I feel like a citizen of the world. Within a ten minute radius from my flat, I can savour most flavours of the world. There’s a huge selection of exotic shops, delis and restaurants on this, the most international street in Edinburgh.
I love it and wish more people would appreciate it instead of slagging it off as being “scummy” and “dangerous”. It may not be the most polished of streets but it’s so lively and multicultural. There’s never a dull day on good old Leith Walk with its international community from all walks of life.
Fancy a Turkish meal tonight? Or perhaps you’d prefer some Polish food? Take your pick from my wee list of recommendations and head on down to Leith Walk. Bring a carrier bag!
Russian Baltic Food may boast the ugliest shop front and shop on Leith Walk, but their selection of pelmeņi (dumplings), biezpiena sieriņi (chocolate coated cottage cheese snacks), booze and other goodies more than make up for it.
Seriously, people have asked me whether the shop’s been designed to replicate a Soviet era supermarket! Were it not for the well-stocked shelves, I’d be inclined to say yes… Also, the service is great. Take cash as card payments aren’t accepted. And watch out for the old goods that get sold at sale prices 🙂
Pat’s Chung Ying is more than just a Chinese supermarket. Thai, Japanese, Korean and other goods are available too. Shelves full of sauces, pickles, rice wine, spices, noodles, rice and fresh vegetables. The freezer section is amazing and it’s never easy to choose from the vast selection of frozen dumplings. Woks, pots and crockery also in stock.
Taste of Poland is a one-stop shop for all your Polish food needs. It’s quite a recent addition to Leith Walk with a well-stocked counter of fresh meat and cheese, as well as fridges for dairy products and “ready meals” such as pierogi or dumplings and bigosz or sauerkraut. You’ll also find staple foods like buckwheat and gherkins on the shelves.
Akdeniz Mediterranean Supermarket brings a ray of sunshine to Leith Walk. Rummage among the shelves to find olives, honey, couscous, spices, tinned sauces, dolmades, hummus, paneer cheese, baklava and oh so much more. They also have a Halal meat counter and piles of exotic fruit and veg.
Qupi is a hidden gem towards the bottom of Leith Walk which looks like any other neighbourhood cafe from the outside but serves up amazing, fresh Greek mezze. For £12, two people can enjoy a mini feast of dips, feta and spinach pie, and marinated veggies. Lovely interior with numerous plush chairs to sink into. Gorgeous toilet too!
Silver Bowl – Our trusty local Chinese and Thai food takeaway. Quick and friendly service, really tasty meals for the price, and huge portions. You never have to wait long. It’s always clean and usually has at least two customers waiting in line, which I take as signs of quality.
Khushi’s – An Indian restaurant at the very top of Leith Walk, officially on Antigua Street. Touted as one of Edinburgh’s best Indian eateries. Funky interior, mouthwatering curries and a BYOB policy. The first place I ever tried fish curry, and absolutely loved it.
Los Cardos – Who doesn’t love a neighbourhood tex mex? Huge burritos so you have to work up an appetite before visiting Los Cardos. Choose from various fillings, including haggis. Vegetarians are also catered for, hurrah!
There are a number of Italian delis and restaurants on Leith Walk, as well as Polish cafes. Kebab shops are ubiquitous.
Now, bon appetit! Go and discover Leith Walk, Edinburgh’s most multicultural “neighbourhood”.
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