Seemor
TapaB+Worth Trying
19 Shore Pl, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6SW
· Tapas restaurant, Spanish restaurant, Tapas bar
· 4.7/5 Google (1220 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Confident Spanish tapas in Leith with excellent lunch and Thursday half-price deals, lively vibe, and generally strong small plates—though service speed and occasional dish misses appear on busy nights.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Tapa delivers solid neighborhood dining through confident, flavorful tapas and friendly, knowledgeable service, with standout dishes like Basque cheesecake and chorizo earning loyal repeat visits. However, inconsistent execution on busy nights and occasional service lapses prevent a higher grade. The pleasant Shore setting and excellent lunch value make it competitive with respected local favorites, though it lacks the distinction of premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off the Shore, Tapa feels warm and bustling with a relaxed Spanish-leaning room and friendly servers who talk you through the small plates. On busy nights the pace can slow, but many diners still call the food confident and delicious. One guest summed it up: "Service was kind and the lunch set was excellent value." The cooking leans elevated traditional rather than showy—think croquettes, patatas, chorizo, artichokes, and a Basque cheesecake that regulars rave about. The culinary approach is produce-led Spanish tapas: mostly classics with thoughtful sauces and the odd twist like sobrasada crust on scallop. If you want dependable tapas with a few bright surprises, this is a strong bet—especially at lunch or on Thursdays. Families are welcome. There is a kids menu, highchairs, and coloring sheets; simple plates like chicken and chips make it easy. For hesitant eaters, stick to patatas and croquettes, while adventurous teens might try scallop or squid. Churros are popular, though a few found them heavy—cheesecake is the safer sweet for happy endings.
At a Glance
- Excellent £15 lunch and strong Thursday half-price value
- Standout Basque cheesecake, chorizo, and artichokes
- Service can be slow or disjointed on peak nights
- Stock outs and limited menu for large parties
- Creative takes are mild; mostly elevated traditional tapas
What Sets It Apart
- excellent_lunch_value
- half_price_thursday_tradition
- strong_vegetarian_range
- consistent_cheesecake_praise
What People Love
- Warm, relaxed vibe that still feels special
- Cheesecake that wins over dessert skeptics
- Friendly staff who guide you through the menu
- Lunch deal that lets you try a spread without overspending
Points of Concern
- Service speed varies; expect waits when packed, especially Thursdays
- Portions feel small at full price according to several diners
- Occasional misses (cold scallop, heavy churros) suggest variable execution
- Stock availability issues reported on some evenings, especially for groups
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£32-46 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Leverage the £15 lunch: pair aubergine crisps with croquettes plus shared patatas and padrón peppers
- On Thursdays, add one premium seafood or Iberico dish to maximize savings
Perfect For
- Long lunch with shared plates and sangria
- Date night in Leith near the water
- Casual group catch-up on Thursday deal night
- Vegetarian-friendly tapas session
Location Insights
Area: Waterside Leith hub with creative studios, bars, and destination dining; draws locals and food-focused visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, lively evenings, good foot traffic; typical city parking constraints off main streets.
Nearby: Near The Shore promenade, bars, bistros, Michelin-level eateries; residential blocks and offices nearby.
ShoreThe Shore is a lively and trendy micro-neighborhood within Leith, characterized by its historic harbor setting, a mix of traditional pubs, modern restaurants, and bars. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for quality dining experiences in a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, often popular for social gatherings and weekend outings.
The ShoreThe Shore is known for its picturesque quayside views, a cluster of upscale eateries, and a bustling nightlife scene, making it a focal point for dining and socializing in Leith.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday13:00–23:00
Wednesday13:00–23:00
Thursday13:00–23:00
Friday13:00–23:00
Saturday13:00–23:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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