The Lioness of Leith is a gastropub in Leith, Edinburgh. Rated 4.5 stars from 1123 Google reviews. Known for exceptional burgers and drinks programme. Best for groups and solo dining. Price range: £10–20.
Rankings updated May 2026
The Lioness of Leith
Across 1,119 Google reviews, 89% gave four or five stars.
Quick Verdict
The Lioness of Leith delivers standout burgers, thoughtful cocktails, and local beer in a fun, welcoming space that punches above its gastropub weight.
You want an excellent burger, serious cocktails, and a buzzing local atmosphere without pretension.
About The Lioness of Leith
The Lioness of Leith is a quirky, cosy gastropub that's earned a devoted following for its excellent burgers and carefully curated drinks programme. The space itself—with its eclectic decor, muted lighting, and Victorian pub bones—creates an irreverent, welcoming atmosphere that draws locals, tourists, families, and solo diners alike. The burger menu showcases quality patties with flavour combinations that work, paired with hand-cut chips that reviewers consistently praise. The drinks list punches above its weight: a thoughtful beer selection leaning into local Leith breweries, a strong cocktail programme (the Old Fashioned and Smokey Paloma are standouts), and a wine list that holds its own. Service is warm and friendly without hovering. The venue is dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and accepts reservations—practical touches that extend its appeal across the neighbourhood.
The Lioness of Leith is the neighbourhood spot done right — unhurried, unpretentious, with a wine list that gives it an edge over most of its category.
What Stands Out
Exceptional burgers
Multiple 5★ reviews praise burger quality, patty flavour, bun structure, and creative flavour combinations; vegetarian options are also highlighted as difficult-to-find and well-executed.
Drinks programme
Reviewers consistently commend the beer selection (especially local Leith brews), cocktail menu (Old Fashioned and Smokey Paloma specifically recommended), and wine list.
Atmosphere and design
Described as quirky, cosy, eclectic, with excellent kerb appeal and a fun, irreverent vibe; Victorian pub bones with modern sensibility attract both locals and tourists.
In Their Own Words
Review highlights surfaced by Google, in the language they were written
“Great place for a wee pint or two with cracking food and great service.”
“The chicken basket was tasty, but the Tex Mex chicken breast was a bit dry.”
“Chilled out, dog friendly with a small selection of crafty beers.”Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
Common Questions
How consistently good is The Lioness of Leith?
Across 1,119 Google reviews, 89% of visitors gave four or five stars — placing The Lioness of Leith among Leith's most reliably rated gastropubs.
Do you need to book The Lioness of Leith in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended for meals — The Lioness of Leith is a popular choice in Leith and tends to fill quickly, particularly at weekends.
Is The Lioness of Leith family friendly?
The Lioness of Leith accommodates families — Google visitors note facilities for children, and the casual atmosphere suits all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Lioness of Leith
Yes—it's marked as popular for solo dining. The casual, cosy atmosphere and bar seating make it welcoming for solo guests, and the burger-focused menu works well for one person.
Yes, dogs are allowed. Multiple reviews mention the dog-friendly policy as a plus, making it a great spot for dog owners in the neighbourhood.
The burgers are the standout—reviewers praise the patty quality, flavour combinations, and bun structure. The hand-cut chips are highly recommended, and the Old Fashioned and Smokey Paloma cocktails are specifically praised.
Yes. Reviews highlight it as welcoming to groups, families with kids, couples, and tourists. The buzzing atmosphere and table service make it ideal for group dining.
The venue accepts reservations, which is recommended, especially for groups or peak times. Walk-ins are also welcome, though tables can fill up.
Yes, The Lioness has a wheelchair accessible entrance and is set up for accessible dining.
Also in Leith
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How We Rank Venues
Rankings are recalculated monthly from live Google Business Profile data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity (new text reviews in 90 days), recency (how fresh), baseline rating, and Google Business Profile completeness. No editorial picks, no paid placements — just what the data says this month.
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