Seemor
101 BakeryB+Worth Trying
101 Newington Rd, Edinburgh EH9 1QW
· Bakery, Takeout Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (184 reviews)
Takeout
Excellent small-batch bakery with standout buns, cookies, and custom cakes; expect takeaway-only and occasional brusque service but consistently delicious bakes.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
101 Bakery delivers exceptional baking quality with standout cinnamon buns and textured cookies that justify its devoted following, supported by strong repeat customer loyalty and excellent value for artisanal work. Tight takeaway-only space and occasional service inconsistency prevent a higher grade, though reliable execution across visits makes it a solid neighborhood favorite worth seeking out for quality baked goods.
Restaurant Summary
A tiny Newington counter bakery that smells like butter and warm spice, 101 fills boxes with buns, brownies, and focaccia while locals queue at the door. Service is usually warm and quick, though a few guests felt the counter could be brisk at peak times. As one fan put it, "I took one bite of the guinness cake and half was gone before the next stop"—expect serious cravings and short, lively visits rather than lingering. The baking leans classic with seasonal flair: cinnamon buns (often vegan), fudgy cookies with crisp edges, plush focaccia, and celebration cakes in rotating flavors. It is an elevated traditional approach with playful specials—pumpkin cheesecake blondies, Basque cheesecake, and marmalade blondies have all had their moment. If you like meticulous texture and big yet balanced flavors, this is your sweet spot. Families should note it is takeaway-only—no tables or high chairs—but kids tend to love the cookies, buns, and brownies. Vegan options pop up often, and some cakes can be made NCGI, making it friendly for mixed diets even if the lack of seating means treats are best enjoyed on the go.
At a Glance
- Best-in-area cinnamon buns and standout cookies with great textures
- Excellent value for artisan quality; most items under a tenner per person
- Strong vegan and custom cake capabilities, including weddings
- No seating and limited space; expect takeaway-only
- Occasional brusque counter interactions and communication gaps on bespoke orders
What Sets It Apart
- seasonal_flavor_rotation
- custom_wedding_and_event_cakes
- vegan_signature_buns
- neighborhood_counter_bakery_vibe
What People Love
- Light, fluffy cinnamon buns with real spice
- Large cookies that nail the crunch-chew balance
- Seasonal riffs that keep the case exciting
- Focaccia that is flavorful without excess oil
- Beautifully decorated celebration cakes
Points of Concern
- Takeaway-only with no indoor seating; lines can form at peak times but move quickly
- A minority report counter service feeling curt during busy moments
- Custom cake communication can be slow, and one-off quality complaints appear
- Card-only payment noted by reviewers
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter Only
Average Cost£7-12 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose the 6 inch cake (£55-£65) for small celebrations; upgrade to florals for presentation
- Ask about vegan or NCGI options for the chocolate cake base when ordering
- Scan the case for seasonal specials—limited runs like pumpkin blondies sell quickly
Perfect For
- Grabbing exceptional pastries and coffee treats to-go
- Ordering a bespoke cake for birthdays or weddings
- Stocking up on crowd-pleasing desserts for gatherings
- A quick neighborhood stop during a coffee walk
Location Insights
Area: Student and residential corridor south of the city centre with indie cafes and neighborhood shops; daytime foot traffic from locals and students.
Safety: Generally safe, well-traveled during the day; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near other specialty coffee spots, small retailers, and university areas; not a heavy tourist strip but sees visitor spillover.
NewingtonNewington is a diverse and dynamic neighborhood characterized by its proximity to the University of Edinburgh and several student residences. The dining scene includes casual cafes, traditional pubs, and a growing number of independent restaurants catering to a mix of students and local families, creating a friendly and inclusive social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday10:00–16:00
Wednesday10:00–16:00
Thursday10:00–16:00
Friday10:00–16:00
Saturday10:00–16:00
Sunday
Available: Takeout
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