
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Eleanore is the indoor reincarnation of the beloved lockdown pop-up The Little Chartroom, bringing its signature smoky, fire-kissed cooking to Leith Walk. Think high-top Scandi interiors, a playlist that swings from Fleetwood Mac to Whitney Houston, and dishes that balance rustic charcoal flavors with surprising sophistication. It's not just a restaurant; it's a cult favorite with a loyal following who book tables months in advance.
Smoky flavors meet refined technique in Leith Walk's hottest new spot
Eleanore is Edinburgh's latest culinary obsession, and for good reason. Chef Roberta Hall-McCarron has transported the magic of her outdoor pop-up The Little Chartroom into a sleek, high-top dining space on Leith Walk. The food is where the real story unfolds—smoky, charred flavors meet delicate, refined techniques in ways that feel both rustic and refined. The flatbreads are legendary, especially the version with potted shrimp and hispi cabbage that still carries that burnt-church aroma from the original beachside days. The hash browns are another standout, crispy and gooey with a hidden pocket of lime pickle that adds a bright, unexpected zing.
The atmosphere is equally compelling. It's intimate without being stuffy, with a playlist that ranges from Fleetwood Mac to Whitney Houston, creating a warm, welcoming vibe. The only quibble is the high-top seating—while stylish, it might not be comfortable for everyone, especially if you're planning a long sit-down meal. But if you can get past that, the food more than makes up for it. This is the kind of place that locals will tell you about with genuine excitement, and once you try it, you'll understand why.