Seemor
CilantroB?Proceed Cautiously
4 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN
· Indian restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (808 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A tiny, homely Indian spot with standout dosas and classic curries, BYOB and warm hospitality, but service pacing and sweetness levels divide opinion; book ahead.
Why it gets a B? for overall quality
⚠️ Review concerns: This assessment reflects moderate uncertainty due to questionable review patterns. See details in Authenticity Assessment. Cilantro delivers reliable South Indian and North Indian cooking with strong food quality and warm, attentive service that keeps regulars returning. However, inconsistent execution on seasoning balance and slower service pacing during peak times prevent it from reaching higher ground. The intimate setting and BYOB value make it a worthwhile neighborhood destination, though moderate authenticity signals introduce some uncertainty in the assessment.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked along Leith Walk, Cilantro feels like a tiny neighborhood gem where staff greet you warmly and regulars slip back in for favorites. Reviews paint a picture of homely service in a compact room, with dishes arriving fragrant and vibrant. However, there are moderate authenticity concerns suggesting a small share of reviews may be influenced, so weigh the strong on-site photo signals alongside that caution. The cooking leans elevated traditional with a South Indian streak, not flashy but focused: crisp dosas, soothing idly-sambar, and reliable North Indian classics done right. The culinary approach leans classic and regional: breadth over spectacle, with balance the goal. Fans rave about Murgh Mango, fluffy garlic naan, and tender rogan josh; detractors wish for less sweetness or more punch. Book ahead, especially weekends, and expect a leisurely pace when the room is full or takeaway orders surge. Families do well here thanks to familiar kid-friendly options: plain or masala dosa, korma or malayan, chapathi and naan. There is no kids menu, but portions and mild dishes suit younger palates. If your crew loves fiery heat, ask for it; if not, lean into the mild curries and plain dosa. Space is tight, so strollers and large highchairs may be awkward—reserve accordingly.
At a Glance
- Warm, personal service with genuine care and helpful recommendations
- South Indian specialties (dosa, idly) plus solid North Indian classics
- BYOB keeps costs down; value is strong for quality
- Service pacing can be slow at peak times; small room gets crowded
- Seasoning balance varies; several diners found dishes too sweet
What Sets It Apart
- byob_corkage_savings
- south_indian_dosa_focus
- tiny_neighborhood_gem_feel
What People Love
- The feeling of being looked after like family
- Fluffy, aromatic naan and well-cooked rice
- Balanced, gentle curries that do not overwhelm
- BYOB flexibility and fair pricing
Points of Concern
- Service delays during busy periods; some guests waited 20-30 minutes to order and longer for food
- A subset of dishes skew sweet or under-seasoned for some palates; communicate spice preferences
- Tight space with only 6-7 tables; can feel cold or cramped in winter if seated by door
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (high 5-star share, templated responses, one incentive claim) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£26-36 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For spice lovers: Rogan Josh or Jalfrezie with extra heat request
- For vegans/gluten-free: Plain/Onion Dosa or Idly with Sambar
- For comfort seekers: Badami Korma with Garlic Naan
Perfect For
- A cozy BYOB curry night with friends
- Travelers seeking a small local spot off the main tourist drag
- Vegetarian groups wanting hearty options
- A relaxed date night with comforting classics
Location Insights
Area: Leith Walk corridor blends residential and independent shops with casual eateries; appeals to locals, students, and visitors exploring beyond Old Town.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near Easter Road and retail like Sainsbury's (noted in reviews for BYOB), mixed high-street environment with frequent takeaway traffic.
New Town EastNew Town East is a dynamic area blending Georgian architecture with contemporary developments. It offers a growing number of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants, appealing to a crowd that values both historic charm and modern urban living. The dining scene is eclectic, with a mix of casual eateries and upscale venues, reflecting the area's evolving social atmosphere.
BroughtonBroughton is known for its artistic community and independent shops, with a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The dining options here tend to be more eclectic and locally focused, often featuring artisanal and organic offerings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–22:30
Tuesday16:00–22:30
Wednesday16:00–22:30
Thursday16:00–22:30
Friday16:00–23:00
Saturday16:00–23:00
Sunday16:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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