Polentoni

Editor's Review

There is a rich tradition of Italian immigration to Scotland that dates back to the beginning of the twentieth century, and thankfully, many of those that came over made food their business – delis, ice cream parlours, cafes. Carrying on that tradition is Polentoni – one of Leith’s real hidden gems.

Situated at the top end of Easter Road – with bright orange tables and chairs on the street itself, usually filled by people drinking espressos and reading papers, weather permitting – Polentoni does simple, and it does it really well. Strong Italian espresso, a perfect breakfast and lunch menu replete with classy, affordable, rustic cooking, and a counter filled with sourdoughs, cakes, and pizzettas, if you want to eat but can’t snag a table (this place fills up quick).

Easter Road is less lively than Leith Walk, which runs almost parallel to it down towards Great Junction Street. It’s less a catch-all for buses going to the City, and the bottom half, once you get past the Hibs stadium, becomes more residential. However, a cluster of cafes and bars around the top end of the street, as well as the nearby Abbeyhill, make it worth the visit. Polentoni is chief among them – go now before everyone finds out.

Review: Harry Harris

Cafe Features

Pets Allowed

Brunch/Lunch

Outdoor Seats

Buy Beans

Wifi

Toilets

Table Seating

Coffee + Drinks

Non Dairy

Decaf