Seemor
1802 Lounge & GrillB+Worth Trying
1-3 Baxter's Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3AF
· Scottish restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (161 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
A polished Scottish grill and lounge inside the Courtyard Marriott delivering reliably tasty burgers, steaks, and standout sticky toffee pudding with warmly attentive service, though pricing runs high and service speed can wobble at peak or holiday times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
1802 Lounge & Grill delivers exceptionally warm and personalized service paired with solid food quality anchored by reliable burgers and standout sticky toffee pudding. However, inconsistent execution on steaks and pasta combined with variable service pacing prevents a higher grade. The hotel setting and pre-theatre convenience make it a competitive neighborhood choice, though not a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off the Playhouse in the Courtyard Marriott, 1802 pairs a grill-led menu with a relaxed lounge where cocktails shine and staff are notably warm. The room feels calm and comfortable rather than flashy, and service often adds personal touches like celebratory bubbles. A guest summed it up well: "We felt looked after from hello to the last bite." The lounge delivers welcome pre-theatre ease without overwhelming noise, and the bar team earns repeated praise for spot-on cocktails. The cooking leans classic Scottish and grill-forward, not experimental. Think haggis bon bons, burgers, steaks, and a sticky toffee pudding that wins raves, with a few modern comfort notes. The culinary approach is elevated traditional: reliable flavor over theatrics, with burgers and short rib especially consistent. Steaks and seafood linguine draw mixed notes, so steak lovers may want to confirm doneness and cut preferences; desserts, on the other hand, are a safe bet and crowd-pleasing. Families should do well here: burgers, fish and chips, fries, and ice cream keep things accessible, and staff handle allergies with care. There is no explicit kids menu mentioned, but the spread works for most ages, and the atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly outside of event peaks.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally friendly, personalized service with many praised staff members
- Sticky toffee pudding and burgers are consistent winners
- Steaks and pasta dishes show inconsistent execution at times
- Pricing feels high for some diners, especially bread and cocktails
- Holiday and event periods can cause long waits or limited menus
What Sets It Apart
- hotel_lounge_with_cocktail_focus
- pre_theatre_convenience_near_playhouse
- signature_sticky_toffee_pudding
What People Love
- Feeling genuinely welcomed and remembered by staff
- Relaxed lounge vibe with well-made cocktails
- Comforting Scottish staples done well
- A dessert course that ends on a high note
Points of Concern
- Holiday and event nights sometimes bring long delays or menu shortages
- Steaks occasionally miss temps or arrive dry; pasta can be overcooked
- Bills add up quickly; a few items feel overpriced for what they are
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (staff name repetition, marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Haggis Bon Bons (£8.50) or Portobello Mushroom Fries (£7.50); choose a Smashed Cheeseburger (£18.50) or Madras Lamb Shepherd (£19.50); finish with Sticky Toffee Pudding (£8.00). Steak lovers should confirm temps and sides.
Perfect For
- Pre-show dinner before the Playhouse
- Casual date night with cocktails
- Hotel guests seeking a reliable on-site option
- Small celebrations where service warmth matters
Location Insights
Area: East end of New Town near Edinburgh Playhouse and St James Quarter; a mix of theatre-goers, shoppers, and hotel guests.
Safety: Well-trafficked central district with steady footfall; perceived as safe and maintained.
Nearby: Steps from Edinburgh Playhouse, St James Quarter, Omni cinema, and Calton Hill; strong pre-theatre and shopping traffic.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is a bustling area with a strong focus on tourism, featuring numerous pubs, restaurants, and shops. Dining options range from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, catering to visitors and locals alike. The atmosphere is lively, especially during festivals and peak tourist seasons.
Baxter's PlaceA small side street off the Royal Mile offering a more subdued and intimate dining environment compared to the busy main street. It hosts a few boutique restaurants and cafes popular with locals and professionals.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday06:30–22:30
Tuesday06:30–22:30
Wednesday06:30–22:30
Thursday06:30–22:30
Friday06:30–22:30
Saturday07:00–23:00
Sunday07:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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