A lively Leith community arts hub with a decent cafe attached: come for exhibitions, markets, classes and a relaxed bite, not for a pure destination restaurant experience.
The Out of the Blue Drill Hall delivers solid food quality anchored by reliably praised soups, coffee, and breakfast rolls, supported by attentive service and a distinctive converted-hall setting that draws loyal regulars. Consistent execution across food and service dimensions sustains its standing, though modest gaps in staff expertise and destination appeal keep it just short of the very top tier.
The Out of the Blue Drill Hall feels more like a buzzing community arts engine with a cafe than a standalone restaurant, and that is very much the point. Reviewers keep coming back for the atmosphere: a spacious, light-filled hall, exhibitions, markets, classes and the kind of relaxed, welcoming energy that makes people linger over coffee or a bowl of soup. One regular-style comment sums it up neatly: a warm, lively place where there is always something happening. Culinarily, this is straightforward, comforting cafe food rather than anything ambitious or chef-y. Think soups, sandwiches, morning rolls, cakes, toasties and a few breakfast plates, plus vegetarian and vegan-friendly basics. The food seems to do its job well: tasty, affordable, and best enjoyed in the context of a visit to the venue itself. If you want a polished tasting-menu experience, look elsewhere; if you want a casual lunch, brunch, or a coffee between events, this fits nicely. For families, this is one of the stronger bets in Leith. The menu has obvious kid-safe options like toast, rolls, pasta pesto kids’ and cakes, and reviews repeatedly mention buggies, babies, children-friendly spaces, toys, baby facilities and room to move around. It sounds far more practical than precious, which is exactly what parents usually want.
Area vibe: Maritime, creative, and community-focused area with a growing food and arts scene.
Safety: Generally safe with active streets by day; quieter evenings in some spots so stay on well-lit routes.
What's nearby: Near Leith Walk, Ocean Terminal, the Shore waterfront, galleries, and independent cafés and pubs.