Review: Ella – Taste of Greece on Leith Walk

My first visit to Ella – Taste of Greece coincided with a trip to the nearby Leith Arches market. Situated conveniently on Leith Walk, this Greek bistro immediately catches the eye. It presents a facade of artistic dilapidation that is curiously charming, utilising vines, flowers, and rustic textures to evoke the feeling of an ancient, well-maintained Greek villa.

The atmosphere is certainly the venue’s strongest suit. It transports you from the busy pavement of Leith straight to the Mediterranean. However, during that initial visit, the culinary experience was mixed. Birdy and I ordered different wraps, yet upon arrival, we found it difficult to tell them apart. Despite this middling first impression regarding the food, the visual allure and convenience have drawn me back several times since.

A Safe Bet for Carnivores and Vegetarians

The menu at Ella is extensive, focusing on tapas-style dishes known as Meze. You can choose from hot Meze, seafood Meze, and a variety of grill options. The pricing is approachable, making this a viable spot for a casual lunch or dinner. The homemade bread and olives sit around the four-pound mark, while a Chicken Gyros comes in under ten pounds. For those seeking seafood, the fried calamari is roughly 12 pounds, while the grilled option costs slightly more.

There is a distinct “safe bet” quality to the food here. It is reliable rather than revolutionary. While I have often stuck to the wraps, the menu does offer grander statements. A Tomahawk steak is available for eighty pounds, though it requires pre-ordering. For a more spontaneous feast, a meat-sharing platter is available for forty pounds.

The salad options are tempting on paper, specifically the Greek salad and the Spartan salad, though I have yet to sample them. They also serve grilled octopus. While this is a staple of Greek cuisine, I approach it with hesitation due to ethical concerns about the animal’s high intelligence. However, for strict vegetarians and vegans, the menu is quite accommodating, with plenty of plant-based options.

Navigation and Service

One area where Ella consistently scores well is the service. The staff are quick and attentive, and they maintain the venue’s welcoming vibe from noon until 10 pm every day. It is an easy place to drop into, whether you are in a group or dining alone. The table arrangements are clever, mixing two-seaters with larger tables for groups of six, eight, or even ten. Solo diners will feel comfortable here.

However, accessibility is a drawback. If you are navigating Leith with a pram, pushchair, or wheelchair, this venue may pose challenges. The seating is packed quite tightly. I have found myself squeezed into corners or threading my way delicately through the room to reach a table. While the density adds to the bustle and atmosphere, it reduces comfort if you need extra space.

Things to do in Leith

Leith is one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant districts, offering far more than just dining. If you are visiting from outside the city, you can compare rail fares to Edinburgh Waverley using Omio to ensure you get the best connection. For those preferring to drive and explore the wider Lothian coast, affordable car hire is available through Auto Europe.

Once in Leith, the shopping options are eclectic. You are moments away from the independent traders of Leith Walk and the creative hub of Leith Arches. For a longer stay to truly explore the port area, consider booking a holiday rental through Sykes Holiday Cottages, which often offers more character than a standard hotel room.

If you are planning a day out that involves more than just food, it is wise to be prepared. Whether you are a local or a tourist, having comprehensive cover is useful; InsureandGo offers travel insurance that can cover domestic trips and cancellations. For entertainment, check See Tickets for events at nearby venues or at the Leith Theatre.

Overall

Ella – Taste of Greece is a functional, convenient location rather than a destination for a romantic date. It is a meet-a-friend location that serves its purpose well. You are unlikely to impress anyone with the culinary innovation, but you will likely have a pleasant, affordable meal in atmospheric surroundings. It is exactly what many of us look for on a weekend, which is why I foresee myself returning throughout 2026.