The Clock

The Clock is a café and bistro on the Shore in Leith, operating from the historic 170-year-old Clock Tower building on the waterfront of the Water of Leith. The Shore is Edinburgh's most storied restaurant address — the old dockside quay that now houses several of the country's best restaurants, including Tom Kitchin's Michelin-starred Kitchin nearby — and The Clock occupies its own distinct position in that cluster as a friendly daytime café rather than a fine-dining destination. The menu centres on traditional Scottish and British cooking: all-day full Scottish breakfast, modern brunches, and classic fish and chips. Baking — including vegan options — has been a highlight in guest reviews, and the atmosphere is described as relaxed and family-friendly rather than formal. The Clock Tower building adds a heritage dimension to what might otherwise be a simple café: sitting in a Victorian harbour building on one of Scotland's most distinctive waterfront streets is part of the appeal. The staff are consistently praised for warmth and courtesy.