Yesterday the 5pm Restaurants blog mentioned that The Balfour Bar on Leith Walk was being transformed.
After extensive refurbishment (read: removal of decades worth of Artex), the premises have emerged as the quirky Woodland Creatures, a cafe bar.
Fresh idea
Your blogger had never dared set foot in the building in its old guise but the new venture is a completely fresh idea which should appeal to the young professionals living on and around Leith Walk.
Stripped stone walls, a funky bar and tables made from reclaimed wood, old theatre seats and a menu of wholesome and hearty bar food are among the attractions along with a separate gallery/function room.
Secret garden
The new owners have got permission for outside seating at the front of the bar and, at the back of the building, there is a secret garden accessed through a wardrobe – all very Narnia.
The kitchen is being set up over the next few days but, when it is all up and running, we are promised burgers, stews and, unusually, a good selection of vegan dishes.
Along with seven draught ales and lagers, there are two cask ales on and this looks likely to be extended to three. The coffee is supplied by Puro, a coffee company so ethical that every cup helps save a patch of rain forest.
Spoken word poetry nights, art exhibitions and link ups with the artists at the nearby Out of the Blue Drill Hall will all help keep Woodland Creatures nice and lively.
If you are strolling down Leith Walk then you won’t be able to miss it. It’s the bar with a squirrel in the window.
