Spotlight
Dish Cult Dines: Seasonality
06 Dec 2024
06 Dec 2024
A spotlight on Edinburgh's The King's Wark
Looking for a real slice of Scotland in the country’s capital? Nestled in the historic Shore area of Leith, you’ll find the The King’s Wark. Standing as a tribute to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, particularly its incredible hospitality scene that has vividly flourished in recent times, the building itself dates back to 1400. With a steeped history lying between the four walls, the building now lies home to the bustling gastropub.
In Edinburgh you’re only a stones-throw away from uncovering Scotland’s past, but The King’s Wark is certainly one of our favourite haunts. What was once designed to be a royal residence, a store-house, and an armoury in the 15th century, is now a charming gastro-pub, with an inviting atmosphere for foodies and historians alike.
The bright azure-blue exterior is a warm welcome for diners and pub-goers, often lined with patrons soaking in the sun on a warm(er) Scottish day. Inside you’ll find all the makings of a quintessential pub: a roaring fire heating the place, chalkboard-written daily specials, and all your favourite draughts on tap. The food however, is any but plain old pub grub.
The King’s Wark is all about sticking to traditions and bringing them back to life in the modern age, which is why the menu rings so accurately to Scottish classics you’ll find all across the country. Their menu celebrates the best of Scottish cuisine, with a particular emphasis on sustainable seafood and wild game, all of which are prepared in a classical style.
From their exquisite scallops and chorizo to their mouth-watering bavette steak Sunday roast, every dish is crafted with precision and presented in a contemporary style that honours traditional flavours. Some of our all-time favourites at The King’s Wark include their Shetland mussels in a creamy, garlic white wine sauce, the chicken Balmoral with pancetta, haggis, mashed potato, turnip, pickled kohlrabi, and a mustard cream sauce, their pork belly croquettes with a shallot, wholegrain mustard, tarragon, blue cheese & apple dipping sauce, and of course their famous beer battered East Coast Haddock, served with fries, garden peas, and tartare sauce to finish.
The menu is short and sweet but includes everything you need to get a real taste of Scotland. You simply can’t go wrong with your order at The King’s Wark.
Naturally, the gastropub has all the beers and wines you could want, as well as plenty of local whiskies and spirits for mixers and bespoke cocktails. So, whether you’re stopping by for just one, or you’re settling in for the night, The King’s Wark has everything to keep your stomachs happy and whistle whet!
You’ll find The King’s Wark at 36 The Shore, Leith EH6 6QU. They book up fast, so be sure to book your table right here before your visit.
