Stepping inside the Roseleaf, you can begin to imagine how Alice must have felt as she fell down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland. Whether it’s the quirky hats that line the wall, the boozy teacups scattered about or the overall wacky bohemian vibe, you’re sure to adapt quickly to being on the wrong side of the looking glass.
Formerly the drinking den The Black Swan, Roseleaf underwent an extreme makeover and now thrives as a family-run café bar. The bar remains, but the space is now filled with pre-loved furniture, vintage knick knacks, board games and art by aspiring local artists who are allowed to display their creations for free. The bar is divided into two main sections: the back room is for larger groups and sit-down dining, whereas the lively front area caters to diners looking for casual dining and socialising.
The menu focuses on pub grub classics made fresh using seasonal and sustainable local produce. Starting with the chunky Cullen skink is a must; Roseleaf promises to have ‘the best Cullen skink in Edinburgh’. The ‘tea time meals tae fill yer belly’ section features a range of elevated pub dishes; think mac ‘n’ cheese with a triple cheese sauce and truffle oil, prime rump steak with a smoky red chimichurri sauce and charred broccolinis, and a goats cheese salad with pickled figs and candied nuts.
Brunch is a staple here, operating daily until 5pm. Here you’ll find classics (French toast, eggs benedict, full breakfasts) as well as a range of open sandwiches, Korean style fried chicken wings with gochujang sauce, and the famous chunky Cullen skink with homemade bread. Not to be missed.
Wash it all down with Roseleaf’s kooky assortment of drinks, from cocktails served in teapots and jam jars to loose-leaf teas and herbal infusions.