Footballing genius Diego Maradona sadly passed away in 2020, yet his legacy lives on across the world.
An often controversial figure off the pitch, the Argentine will forever be fondly remembered for his exploits on the pitch, particularly for Scots who celebrated his infamous 'Hand of God' goal against England.
And while streets in Buenos Aires and Naples - where his greatest club success came - are adorned with murals worshipping Maradona, there's also a very quiet corner of Edinburgh devoted to El Diego.
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Located at the junction of Montgomery Street and Elm Row, you'll find the Caffe Maradona, with a unmistakeable graphic of arguably the world's greatest ever footballer emblazoned on the front window.
Inside, customers will come across various pieces of Maradona memorabilia, including Napoli flags and World Cup ornaments, dedicated to Argentina's Maradona-led success in 1986.
But, according to those who have visited, this place is more than just a shrine to Argentina's favourite son, with scores of locals praising the Neapolitan cafe bar for serving 'real Italian aperitivo'.
Explaining the concept behind their 'dream bar cafe and takeaway', they say Caffe Maradona "is the reflection of our tradition and culture, our food is cooked the Italian way... well... the Neapolitan way!
"You can taste all the classic dishes from Napoli, from antipasti to pizza and pasta. Come to visit our small cosy bar, we have tables inside and outside right next to Leith Walk.
"We feel lucky to be part of the Leith community, this area is one of the most artistic and vibrant place in Edinburgh with a strong sense of community.
"Our bar and takeaway is located in Montgomery St, with space outside to enjoy either a quick taste of Napoli's traditional dishes or a truly authentic Italian cappuccino!"
And regular customers to the welcoming cafe agree they are served up a truly authentic Italian experience.
One recent comment on Google Reviews said: "Great authentic Italian pizza, pasta, and desserts. I had the vegetarian pizza which had a good amount of veggies and the crust was perfectly flaky. My husband had the pesto and chicken pasta and it was superb.
"Loved our lunch, so decided to get some pastries and they did not disappoint. Wonderful, friendly service, as well!"
Another diner said: "Genuinely Italian! You can find many pastries and a variety of typically Italian mains and soft drinks (for anyone who knows it, even the rare Tassoni soda) and coffees are on the spot.
"Long opening hours are making this place suitable for everything between breakfast to dinner."
Meanwhile, a further person to praise the Neapolitan offering said: "Visited here by chance as I needed to get out of the rain and was really surprised to find such a gem!
"Had Lasagne which had an excellent tomato base and was enormous! The espresso was PERFECT, also had a big bottle of sparking water and bought a proper traditional cannoli to take away. For all of that was under £15.
"I also loved the super unique theme of Maradona, why not?!
"Will definitely be back and recommend to everyone!"
Meanwhile, an Italian customer who recently visited the cafe was also quick to vouch for it, adding: "What to say...?!! If you happen to visit the Caffè Maradona, instead of the usual soup, you will drink an Italian coffee as it should be and then delicious sandwiches, pasta and pizza made in Italy."
And one person summed up the thoughts of many, with a simple comment heralding Caffe Maradona for providing "the real Italian aperitivo in Edinburgh".
Caffe Maradona is located at 5-7 Montgomery St, Edinburgh, EH7 5JU, for dine-in and takeaway
To find out more and for a look at their menu, you can visit the Cafe Maradona website here.
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