Seemor
The King's WarkA-Worth Trying
36 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QU
· Gastropub, Pub, Scottish restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1513 reviews)
Reservations
Atmospheric Leith gastropub delivering excellent roasts and seafood with warm, efficient service; prices are mid-range with some value complaints around chips and portions.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
The King's Wark delivers solid A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by memorable roasts and excellent sticky toffee pudding, paired with exceptional service attentiveness that keeps the dining room running smoothly. The waterfront historic setting adds genuine appeal, though occasional consistency dips with chips and specific dishes prevent the higher ground. A reliable neighborhood favorite that exceeds typical gastropub standards.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and cozy, all stone floors and a crackling fire, with staff who work in smooth tandem. Diners describe the roasts as trip-making and the service as swift and welcoming. One happy regular put it simply: "We will definitely be back." The cooking leans elevated Scottish gastropub: comfort dishes done well rather than culinary theatrics. Expect standout roasts, soups like smoky haddock chowder, and reliably good seafood; the fish and chips divide opinion due to skinny fries. Desserts, especially the sticky toffee pudding, are a sure-fire win. Families do well here thanks to familiar plates—fish and chips, burgers, mussels, soups—and a relaxed pub vibe. Teens have called meals a highlight, though there is no explicit kids menu noted. If your crew prefers simple sides, know that fries skew skinny; otherwise, this is an easy family-friendly choice in Leith.
At a Glance
- Memorable Sunday roasts and superb sticky toffee pudding
- Friendly, efficient table service in a cozy historic pub
- Fish and chips price and skinny fries divide opinions
- Walk-in bar-only drinks sometimes refused when holding tables
- Menu may differ from what is viewed online; check in-house specials
What Sets It Apart
- historic_pub_fireplace
- waterfront_setting
- excellent_sunday_roast
- strong_gluten_free_handling
What People Love
- Roasts that feel special
- Genuinely warm, fast service
- Characterful historic setting by the water
- Desserts that finish strong, especially sticky toffee pudding
Points of Concern
- Pricing feels high to some, especially £19 fish and chips with skinny fries
- Walk-in drink-only guests may be turned away when tables are held
- Occasional dish inconsistency: overcooked steak or tough pheasant reported
- Review patterns show isolated illness/freshness claims on seafood but not systemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£38-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose mains in the £19-27 range for best value; add a £9-11 starter like chowder; finish with sticky toffee pudding for a satisfying £38-52 per person before drinks
Perfect For
- Sunday roast with friends after a Leith walk
- Cozy date night by the fire
- Casual family lunch on the waterfront
- Out-of-town guests seeking classic Scottish pub fare
Location Insights
Area: Historic waterfront strip popular with locals and visitors; cozy pubs, seafood spots, and scenic river views.
Safety: Generally safe, busy during meal periods; occasional crowding; well-trafficked tourist-locals mix.
Nearby: On The Shore by Water of Leith; near Ship on the Shore and other eateries; residential blocks and creative businesses nearby.
LeithLeith offers a diverse dining scene ranging from traditional Scottish fare to innovative modern cuisine, attracting locals and visitors alike. The area has a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere with a mix of historic charm and contemporary urban development, making it popular for casual dining and social gatherings.
ShoreThe Shore is a distinct micro-neighborhood within Leith, centered around the historic harbor area. It is known for its picturesque setting, trendy bars, and a concentration of high-quality restaurants, making it a hotspot for dining with scenic views and a lively yet laid-back ambiance.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
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