Seemor
Deacon Brodies TavernB+Worth Trying
435 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2NT
· Pub
· 4.4/5 Google (6235 reviews)
Reservations
Destination pub on the Royal Mile serving Scottish classics and famous pies upstairs; great vibe, good food, but expect queues and occasional slow or rushed service.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Deacon Brodies delivers reliable Scottish pub dining with exceptional historic atmosphere and strong food quality anchored by praised pies and haggis. However, inconsistent execution during crowded periods and frequent long waits prevent a higher grade—the experience hinges heavily on timing and crowd levels. Fair value and genuine character make it worth a visit, especially off-peak.
Restaurant Summary
A classic Old Town stop with historic pub charm, Deacon Brodies bustles with travelers fresh from the castle and whisky tours. Expect a lively queue, tartan-adjacent decor, and staff who try to keep pace when it is heaving. One diner summed it up: "We waited, but the pie and atmosphere made it worth it." The vibe upstairs leans cozy and bustling, though at peak you may feel the push-and-pull of turning tables. The cooking favors Scottish comfort staples over flash: hearty beef-and-ale pies, haggis with neeps and tatties, Cullen skink, and crisp fish and chips. That approach suits sightseers wanting classics, not culinary theatrics. Most plates land well, especially the slow-cooked pies, though quality and speed can dip when the room is packed. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional (innovation level 4.0): solid technique and familiar flavors without fusion fireworks. Families do fine here: burgers, fish and chips, mash, and simple starters are safe wins, and several guests noted that kids enjoyed their meals. There is no explicit kids menu cited, but the menu has plenty of approachable choices. Do plan for waits during peak hours, and consider earlier lunch or late afternoon if children are hungry and patience is limited.
At a Glance
- Excellent location with historic atmosphere
- Hearty pies and haggis earn strong praise
- Queues and long waits for food at peak times
- Service can feel rushed or inattentive when busy
- Fair prices for central Old Town
What Sets It Apart
- historic_royal_mile_setting
- signature_scottish_pies
- upstairs_pub_dining_room
What People Love
- Warm, characterful pub setting
- Rich, comforting pies
- Trying haggis in a welcoming spot
- Cozy upstairs dining away from the bar crowd
Points of Concern
- Wait times of 40–60 minutes reported during peak; seat and order management can lag
- Occasional overcooked or cold dishes mentioned among many positives
- Some guests felt rushed to pay or vacate table at busy times
- Drink prices can feel steep for spirits compared to beer
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£34-44 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians, choose Mushroom & Spinach Suet Pie (£18.00) or Gnocchi (£18.00)
- For lighter meals, opt for Cullen Skink (£7.00) and House Salad (£3.50)
Perfect For
- Post-castle comfort-food dinner
- First-time Scottish classics tasting
- Casual group meal after sightseeing
- Solo traveler grabbing a pub staple upstairs
Location Insights
Area: Historic, high-footfall tourist corridor serving castle visitors, pubs, and souvenir shops.
Safety: Well-trafficked and generally safe; busy, with typical tourist-area pickpocket caution.
Nearby: Steps from Edinburgh Castle, Scotch Whisky Experience, shops, and other pubs along Royal Mile.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is a bustling stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with pubs, restaurants, souvenir shops, and historic attractions. Dining here ranges from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, catering largely to visitors but also frequented by locals, especially in the evenings. The atmosphere is lively and often busy, with a strong emphasis on heritage and tourism.
LawnmarketLawnmarket is a distinct section of the Royal Mile known for its historic buildings and concentration of shops and eateries aimed at tourists. It has a vibrant, somewhat tourist-centric dining scene with a mix of casual and upscale options, often busy during peak tourist seasons.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–00:00
Tuesday11:00–00:00
Wednesday11:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–00:00
Friday11:00–01:00
Saturday11:00–01:00
Sunday11:00–00:00
Available: Reservations
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