The Walnut: A Cozy Culinary Gem on Leith Walk, Edinburgh
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
Nestled on Leith Walk, The Walnut is a small, welcoming restaurant renowned for its seasonal, thoughtfully crafted dishes and warm ambiance. With a modest menu focusing on quality over quantity, it offers excellent value through a three-course prix fixe menu featuring standout dishes like coley fish, lamb ravioli, and its signature walnut whipped dessert. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a beloved neighborhood spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
A brief summary to The Walnut
- 9 Croall Pl, Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH7 4LT, GB
- +441312811236
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5:30 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 12:30 pm-2 pm
- Thursday 12:30 pm-2 pm
- Friday 12:30 pm-2 pm
- Saturday 12:30 pm-2 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance as the restaurant is small with limited seating, especially on weekends.
- Try the three-course prix fixe menu for the best value and a well-rounded taste of the kitchen’s offerings.
- Don’t miss the signature walnut whipped dessert, a standout sweet treat unique to The Walnut.
- If dining with children, ask for half-sized portions of many main dishes to suit younger appetites.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Walnut location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Walnut
A Neighborhood Bistro with a Warm Welcome
The Walnut is a compact and cozy restaurant located at 9 Croall Place on Leith Walk, Edinburgh. Its intimate size, seating around 22 covers, creates a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Despite its modest interior, which some describe as needing a fresh coat of paint, the focus here is clearly on delivering a memorable culinary experience rather than flashy decor. The staff are known for their warmth and attentiveness, contributing significantly to the inviting vibe that draws repeat visitors and locals alike.Seasonal Menus Crafted with Care
The kitchen at The Walnut offers a carefully curated, ever-changing menu centered on seasonal ingredients and creative combinations. The menu is typically presented on a blackboard, emphasizing simplicity and freshness. Signature dishes include the coley fish with a hint of curry, lamb ravioli, and hearty mains like pork belly served with Hasselback potatoes. Starters such as steamed Shetland mussels and chicken liver parfait showcase a blend of Scottish produce with clever, sometimes Middle Eastern-inspired accompaniments. The restaurant also caters thoughtfully to children with half-sized portions of many mains.Exceptional Value and Quality
Offering a three-course dinner for around £34, The Walnut is praised for its excellent value in Edinburgh’s dining scene. Portions are generous yet well-balanced, ensuring guests leave satisfied without feeling overwhelmed. The quality of the food consistently impresses, with dishes like the cod main course cooked to moist perfection and desserts such as the walnut whip or a dark chocolate, rosemary, and sea salt tart that linger in memory. The wine list is concise but well chosen, complementing the food without overwhelming the experience.A Focus on Local and Seasonal Ingredients
The Walnut champions local sourcing and seasonality, which is evident in the freshness and flavor of its dishes. Ingredients like Shetland mussels, Scottish pork, and root vegetables are transformed with thoughtful preparation and subtle global influences. This approach not only supports local producers but also ensures a menu that changes with the seasons, inviting guests to return frequently to discover new flavors.The Dining Experience: Intimate and Unpretentious
The Walnut’s ambiance is unpretentious and casual, making it ideal for relaxed dinners with friends, couples seeking a cozy night out, or family meals. The small size means a quiet, personal dining experience without the hustle of larger venues. The decor is minimalist and functional, allowing the food and service to take center stage. Its location on Leith Walk places it in a vibrant part of Edinburgh, yet the restaurant remains a peaceful retreat from the bustle.A Local Treasure Worth Discovering
Since opening in 2015, The Walnut has steadily built a reputation as a hidden gem in Edinburgh’s culinary landscape. It combines the charm of a neighborhood bistro with the finesse of a fine dining kitchen, all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of seasonal Scottish fare, the friendly service, or the cozy setting, The Walnut offers an authentic and satisfying dining experience that stands out in the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dugald Stewart Monument
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Burns Monument
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Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
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Martyrs of Reform Monument
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Queen Mary's Bath House
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The Centre of Edinburgh
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Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
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Earl of Hopetoun Statue
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A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Robert Fergusson Statue
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Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Queen Victoria Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Melville Monument
1.1 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
North Bridge
1.2 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
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Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
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Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage
0.3 km
Discover the heroic history of Scottish firefighting through vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and authentic stories in Edinburgh’s city-centre museum.
London Road Gardens
0.5 km
A tranquil historic garden in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending natural beauty with neoclassical heritage and peaceful urban retreat.
National Monument of Scotland
0.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill, a stunning Edinburgh landmark.
Playfair Monument
0.8 km
Elegant Greek Doric memorial on Calton Hill honoring John Playfair, a pillar of Edinburgh’s Enlightenment and uncle to architect William Playfair.
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
0.8 km
Explore Scotland’s bold and modern seat of democracy, where architecture and politics intertwine in Edinburgh’s historic heart.
Nelson Monument
0.8 km
Discover the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, a stunning tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson with panoramic views and rich maritime history in Edinburgh.
Artisan Bar
0.8 km
Explore the Artisan Bar in Edinburgh for a delightful blend of traditional Scottish pub culture and modern bar experiences.
Black Axe Throwing Co - Edinburgh
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s premier urban axe-throwing venue with the UK’s largest alcohol-free bar, blending skill, fun, and social vibes.
Regent Road Park
0.9 km
A peaceful green oasis in central Edinburgh with iconic views and the symbolic Stones of Scotland monument.
St James Quarter
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.
Steps to Calton Hill
0.9 km
Ascend the iconic steps to Calton Hill for breathtaking views, historic monuments, and a serene escape in the heart of Edinburgh.
Regent Rd
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Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
Old Calton Cemetery
1.0 km
Historic resting place on Calton Hill with notable monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
Heart of Scotland Tours
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Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
Multrees Walk
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Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
Essential places to dine
The Walnut
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Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
The Gardener's Cottage
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Down The Hatch Edinburgh
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Taisteal
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Educated Flea
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Fhior
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L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
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The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
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The Botanist Edinburgh
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Howies Restaurant
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Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Duck & Waffle
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The Magnum
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Tattu Edinburgh
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Hawksmoor Edinburgh
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Lady Libertine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cats Miaou
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Wee Leith Shop
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Planet.A Boutique
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Curiouser & Curiouser
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The Dragonfly
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Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Holyrood Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
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Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
Logan Malloch Ltd
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Pure Scottish
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The Wyrd Shop
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Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
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Unicorn Antiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Cocktail Geeks
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Bramble Bar
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Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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Royal Mile Tavern
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Grand Cru
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Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Copper Still
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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1.3 km
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Garibaldi's
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Shanghai Nightclub
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El Barrio Latino
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The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Opal Lounge
1.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Cabaret Voltaire
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La Belle Angele
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The Mash House
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Sneaky Pete's
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Legends
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The Bongo Club
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The Liquid Room
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The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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Lulu Bar and Nightclub
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Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
