Michelin-starred Edinburgh restaurant offering sophisticated French-Scottish cuisine in elegant Leith waterfront setting. Exceptional wine list and refined service complement innovative seasonal menus.
Restaurant Martin Wishart is located at 54 The Shore in Leith, Edinburgh, and has been a leading name in Scottish fine dining since opening in 1999. The Michelin-starred restaurant, held since 2001, is led by chef Martin Wishart, who trained under notable French-influenced chefs. The cooking combines classical French technique with Scottish produce including langoustines, scallops, beef, game and seasonal vegetables.
The listing highlights lobster ravioli and a tasting menu. The kitchen offers a multi-course tasting format and a shorter set lunch, and menus change with the seasons. The wine list is extensive and well regarded, with French classics, wines from lesser-known regions and a sommelier team that guides pairings.
The dining room on the Water of Leith has an elegant, restrained feel with neutral tones, spaced tables and quiet service. It is comfortable rather than stiff, and the noise level suits conversation. Dress is smart-casual to smart.
The listing shows opening Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, and reservations are required. Weekend evenings and August Festival dates fill first, so booking a few weeks in advance is wise. Set lunch is a more affordable way to experience the kitchen, while the tasting menu is a significant outlay.
Leith is a pleasant area to explore before or after a meal. The Shore has waterfront bars and restaurants, Ocean Terminal and the Royal Yacht Britannia are nearby, and Edinburgh's centre is a short bus or tram ride away. Visitors arriving by tram can reach the area directly from the city centre, which makes the restaurant an easy addition to a Scottish capital itinerary. Visitors are advised to check the latest opening hours, menu and booking conditions directly with the venue before travelling, since restaurants in the United Kingdom adjust them seasonally and around public holidays and local events. The restaurant's long record also makes it a benchmark for Edinburgh's fine dining scene, and it is frequently cited by food writers as a reference point for Scottish ingredients cooked in a French tradition.
| Price | $$$$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Tuesday-Saturday 12:00-13:30, 18:45-21:30 |
| Reservations | Required |
| Address | 54 The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA |
Signature dishes
- Lobster ravioli — $48
- Tasting menu — $135
Location
54 The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA
55.9757, -3.1713 View on map
Highlights
- Michelin-starred French-Scottish cooking in Leith
- Lobster ravioli and seasonal tasting menu
- Well-regarded wine list with sommelier pairings
- Elegant waterfront dining room
- Open since 1999
Tips for visiting
- Book a few weeks ahead, longer in August.
- Set lunch is cheaper than the dinner tasting menu.
- Consider wine pairings to match Scottish seafood.
- Walk The Shore before or after the meal.
- Mention dietary needs when booking.
When to visit
Lunch for value; autumn for game and Scottish shellfish.
Accessibility
Step-free access and facilities should be confirmed with the restaurant when booking, as the building is a historic waterfront property.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Where is it?
At 54 The Shore in Leith, Edinburgh, near the Water of Leith.
When is it open?
Tuesday to Saturday, lunch 12:00 to 13:30 and dinner 18:45 to 21:30 per the listing.
What is the style?
Refined French technique applied to Scottish ingredients.
Is a reservation needed?
Yes, reservations are required.