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A cracking meal at The Walnut
The Walnut came under new ownership a few years ago after gaining a reputation for serving seasonal food at very reasonable prices. It’s situated in an unassuming street halfway down Leith Walk between McDonald Road and the Leith Police Box. The restaurant is cosy, warm, and welcoming especially on a night when the wind is biting. Some of our party arrive by tram as there is a stop at McDonald Road. A mere 22 covers and a menu of three starters, mains, and desserts signal simplicity. The wine list is equally unintimidating and a bottle of Costa Vera Indómita, Merlot is light, soft, and gently complements our fish, pork, and vegetable dishes. I start my meal with Prawn Wonton in Red Thai Curry; a juicy jumbo prawn in al dente pasta, a sauce of subtle heat, and a swirl of palate-cleansing spiralized cucumber. It is an artfully thought-out and perfectly executed dish. The cost for dinner is three courses for £34 and I would judge this to be excellent value for money in the current Edinburgh climate, especially given the quality of the cuisine and generous portions. My main of Cod is ample and cooked just moist, the celeriac puree is creamy and earthy, and the sea samphire: crunchy and salty. The Pork Belly that some of our group eat is hearty and served with large Hasselback potatoes that are greeted enthusiastically with squeals of "Ooh Hasselbacks!" Pudding keeps up the trend of overdelivering with a show-stopping signature dish; milk chocolate mousse encased in squidgy, sticky torched-to-just-caramelised Italian meringue on a soil of crispy pastry soil. This pudding has it all and it is pretty too, with its piped spiral shape. The Walnut is an independent neighbourhood restaurant and a jewel amongst the sometimes soulless chains that now populate Edinburgh. It epitomizes the principle that less is more offering a delightful dining experience with its seasonal menu and warm ambiance. If you're looking for a memorable meal that won't break the bank, The Walnut is the place to go. The Walnut - 9 Croall Place, Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH7 4LT - 0131 281 1236