Seemor
Royal Mile TavernA-Worth Trying
127 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG
· Pub, Bar, Gastropub
· 4.5/5 Google (2947 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Bustling Royal Mile gastropub with live music, friendly staff, classic Scottish staples, and a deep whisky list; solid food and fun vibe, but can be loud, crowded, and occasionally slow.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Royal Mile Tavern earns its A- grade through strong food quality anchored in reliable Scottish pub classics and consistently friendly service, though occasional rush-hour slowdowns and crowding concerns prevent grade A territory. The prime Royal Mile location with historic charm and knowledgeable staff make this a competitive neighborhood favorite, though it functions as a well-executed local destination rather than a standout culinary draw.
Restaurant Summary
Right on the Royal Mile, this pub leans warm and bustling with whisky-lined shelves, tartan touches, and nightly tunes. Guests rave about friendly staff and hearty plates; one diner noted, "the team made a custom drink and talked us through the menu." Expect live music energy and the occasional wait at peak hours. The cooking is classic Scottish pub fare with a few playful nods, not chefy theatrics. The culinary approach leans traditional comfort: haggis with whisky cream, beefy pies, golden fish and chips, and the famous deep-fried Mars bar. Portions satisfy, prices reflect the location, and whisky lovers will find plenty to explore. Families do well here thanks to familiar kid-friendly options like burgers, mac and cheese, and fish and chips. Reviews mention staff accommodating a small child and even a large family during a busy night. No distinct kids menu is noted, but the main menu offers several approachable choices.
At a Glance
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff and lively atmosphere
- Solid Scottish classics with generous portions
- Extensive whisky list and nightly live music
- Loud and crowded at peak times; waits likely
- Occasional slow service or temperature issues during rush
What Sets It Apart
- royal_mile_location
- nightly_live_music
- broad_whisky_selection
- deep_fried_mars_bar_signature
What People Love
- Lively pub vibe with nightly music
- Well-executed haggis and fish and chips
- Welcoming, chatty staff
- Fun treat: deep-fried Mars bar
Points of Concern
- Peak-time waits and table competition on the Royal Mile
- Noise levels can be high during live music
- Service can slow under heavy crowds; a few reports of forgotten orders
- Pricing reflects tourist-zone location; service charge noted by one reviewer
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£32-45 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: order the vegetarian haggis or Caesar without anchovy dressing
- For vegans: banana-blossom fish and chips and falafel burger
- For kids: classic beef or chicken burger, mac and cheese, fish and chips (shareable portion)
Perfect For
- A pint and hearty Scottish classics after sightseeing
- Casual group dinner with live music
- Whisky tasting with pub fare
- First-timers seeking accessible Scottish dishes
Location Insights
Area: Historic, tourist-heavy corridor with constant foot traffic, lively pubs, and souvenir shops.
Safety: Generally safe, well-patrolled tourist zone; busy and well-lit into evenings.
Nearby: Steps from St Giles and major sights; heavy festival traffic during Fringe; many pubs and eateries nearby.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is a lively stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with historic buildings, traditional pubs, and diverse dining options. The area attracts a mix of visitors seeking authentic Scottish cuisine and casual dining, alongside locals enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–01:00
Tuesday12:00–01:00
Wednesday12:00–01:00
Thursday12:00–01:00
Friday12:00–01:00
Saturday12:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–01:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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