Seemor
Duck & WaffleB+Worth Trying
400-402 St James Cres, Edinburgh EH1 3AE
· Restaurant, Bar, Brunch restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1251 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Outdoor seating
Stylish, view-forward spot with a creative comfort-food twist where the signature Duck & Waffle shines, service is usually warm but can be inconsistent, and prices skew high for portion size.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Duck & Waffle delivers competitive quality with exceptional setting appeal and a signature Duck & Waffle dish that justifies its reputation, supported by strong service attentiveness from standout staff. However, inconsistent food execution and notably slow service pacing prevent grade A territory—diners should expect occasional delays and variable quality beyond the signature. The premium pricing and lively atmosphere make it a worthwhile special-occasion destination for those prioritizing setting and the iconic dish over flawless consistency.
Restaurant Summary
The room lands between polished whimsy and city-skyline chic, a place where the first impression is stunning decor and a server might greet you with a grin and a primer on the signature dish. Many diners talk about feeling genuinely looked after—"like being taken care of rather than just served"—though a minority encountered long waits or a cool welcome. Expect a lively atmosphere that can edge loud near the bar or DJ on busy nights, and plan ahead if you want a booth rather than a bar-height perch. In the kitchen, the culinary approach leans contemporary comfort with creative twists (innovation level 7.3): think crispy duck over waffles with mustard-maple, harissa-kissed veg, and luxe nods like foie gras creme brulee. The signatures are the safest bets; guests rave about the Duck & Waffle, while festive or event menus draw more mixed feedback. Pricing reflects the location and branding more than portion size, so value feels fair if you order smart and focus on what they are known for. Families can make this work, especially at brunch. While there is no formal kids menu, children who like simple pasta or burgers will find options, and fries are always friendly. Some dishes lean spicy or rich, so conservative palates should choose carefully. Portioning on snacks can be modest for the price, and the lively vibe might be a bit much for very young kids during peak hours.
At a Glance
- Signature Duck & Waffle is a crowd-pleaser with crisp confit and balanced maple-mustard
- Stylish room with views and a celebratory vibe
- Service speed and host stand consistency vary; prepare for potential delays
- Pricing is premium for portion size; 12.5% service charge common
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- signature_duck_and_waffle
- playful_glam_interiors
- central_city_views
What People Love
- The iconic duck and waffle combo
- Warm, personable service from standout servers
- Playful, photo-ready space and skyline glimpses
- Creative twists on familiar dishes
Points of Concern
- Pacing can be slow with courses arriving in dribs and drabs during peak times
- Host seating choices occasionally feel arbitrary, including bar tables when space exists
- Event/festive menus receive more mixed feedback than the core menu
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
- Review patterns show signs of varied staff shout-outs and some templates, but no major manipulation detected
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£44-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If spice-averse, choose Rigatoni Arrabbiata without extra heat or opt for the burger.
- Value play: share one snack, one small plate, and one signature between two with a side of fries.
- Seafood lovers: Mussels or King Prawns offer freshness without the highest price tags.
Perfect For
- A celebratory brunch with cocktails
- Date nights where atmosphere matters
- Out-of-town guests who want a city-view moment
- Groups seeking playful, contemporary comfort food
Location Insights
Area: Upmarket mixed-use retail and dining hub drawing shoppers, city workers, and visitors.
Safety: Well-lit, high foot traffic, generally safe with active mall security presence.
Nearby: Within St James Quarter near premium shops, bars, and hotels; short walk to Princes Street and transport links.
St James QuarterThe St James Quarter is a modern retail and leisure complex within New Town, offering a mix of high-end dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The dining scene is diverse, catering to both casual visitors and more upscale clientele, with a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
St James Quarter Retail DistrictThis micro-neighborhood is centered around the St James Quarter shopping center, featuring contemporary restaurants, cafes, and bars that attract a dynamic crowd throughout the day and evening. It is well-connected, safe, and popular for both casual and social dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–00:00
Tuesday09:00–00:00
Wednesday09:00–00:00
Thursday09:00–01:00
Friday09:00–01:00
Saturday09:00–01:00
Sunday09:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Outdoor seating
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