Situated in Edinburgh’s vibrant Tollcross, Leven’s is a chic, cosmopolitan restaurant from the team behind Thai Lemongrass and Jasmine Chinese. Owner Carole Tong has a fantastic track record on the Edinburgh dining scene, and the intention with Leven’s is clearly to showcase the defining characteristics of Thai cuisine through international, fusion-style food, Leven’s is home to a chic and cosmopolitan ambience, and retains a number of tell-tale flourishes that indicate the group’s distinctive stewardship. The décor is crisp and modern, with cool whites, muted greys and olive greens, and is ingeniously embellished with stylish modern chandeliers and crystal curtains. The ambitious menu changes seasonally to utilize the finest locally-produced ingredients, and the chefs’ influences incorporate the best elements from a diverse catalogue of cuisines. The aim is presumably to introduce Western diners to Thai flavours through classic international-style favourites, and there’s an eclectic range from around the globe, with the sole unifying characteristic being the subtle deployment of wondrous, exotic herbs and spices, redolent of the finest Thai cooking. The delicate flavours of basil and lemongrass are incorporated into glorious meat and pasta dishes, and are particularly abundant in the impressive seafood options. The wine list features a range of both Old and New World bottles, and adds a sense of understated refinery. Leven’s retains the sense of mellow tranquillity that has come to define these stunning Edinburgh eateries, and is perfect for small parties seeking an intimate city dining experience, or great for simply whiling away the hours in a stunning setting, with a cup of fine coffee or a glass of wine.