A review of The Ship on the Shore, The Shore

The Ship on the Shore is a very popular seafood restaurant in The Shore, down at the bottom of Leith.

It’s a “seafood and champagne bar” by its own description and the menu boasts seafood platter and champagne combinations that race into the hundreds of pounds. Whereas The Ship on the Shore clearly isn’t a cheap eat – it doesn’t feel over priced. For example, from the menu today I could get Pan Fried Fillet of Hake with Baby Potatoes, Samphire Grass & Sweetcorn & Oregano Puree for less than £20.

One of the reasons I’m starting this review by thinking about prices is because The Ship on the Shore has a lovely bunch of tables outside and a bar area before the restaurant section. I’ve seen tourists sit for a drink or two in the sun before and then decide to pop into the “pub” for a bite to eat. That can be dangerous.

You would be well advised to book a table for dinner. The Ship on the Shore is almost always busy. It’s reputation among locals is excellent and deservedly so. I have been a number of times and have enjoyed each time.

The Ship on the Shore has a pleasant atmosphere. It’s the type of restaurant that can look after people who expect silver service while not alienating diners like myself who much prefer the casual approach. How you order your drinks, especially your wine, certainly seems to influence how your waiter treats you. This is a good thing. I’m not saying that ordering the expensive drinks gets you better service – but that the style of service you get seems to reflect the way you present your expectations.

The food is more than pleasant. It’s always good. The Ship on the Shore is very much geared up to serving seafood but there are other options. I enjoy the steak. Veggies always seem to find something to eat. However, it seems daft to go to The Ship on the Shore if seafood isn’t a priority among the group.

There isn’t much space. If there are any downsides to this popular seafood and champagne bar is that you might end up trapped in the corner, stuck behind the chair of someone else at your table and with a squeeze or two ahead of you if you have to get up from your meal at any point.

Overall, The Ship on the Shore is a very strong contender for best seafood restaurant in Edinburgh. It’s certainly one to consider making time for. You can even buy gift vouchers from their website for friends and family.