Seemor
BabkaBWorth Trying
20 Brougham Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9JU
· Bakery
· 4.7/5 Google (203 reviews)
Takeout
Charming Tollcross bakery for chewy bagels, standout vegan cinnamon rolls, and budget-friendly bakes, with occasional slow or curt service and a very casual setting.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Babka delivers exceptional food quality in bagels and house-baked breads with outstanding value, earning solid neighborhood reputation among Edinburgh regulars. However, inconsistent service speed and attentiveness when understaffed, combined with tight seating that favors takeaway, prevents grade A territory. Strong execution in its category—best visited for quick pastries or takeaway to The Meadows nearby.
Restaurant Summary
Step inside a tiny Tollcross nook that smells like warm bread and cinnamon, where the vibe is cozy and unpretentious. Regulars grab chewy bagels and still-warm sourdough while browsing second-hand books, and more than a few claim these are the city’s best. One diner summed it up simply: "Fresh, house-baked, and fairly priced". Service can lag when only one or two people juggle baking and the counter, and the room reads more homely than polished, but the charm wins many back. The cooking leans traditional bakery fare with a few playful nudges—think challah, rye, borscht-day soups, and those big vegan cinnamon rolls—so the culinary approach feels like elevated comfort rather than trend chasing. Bagels are the anchor: chewy, well-filled, and balanced; sweets range from fudgy gluten-free brownies to a chocolate miso cookie that quietly pushes the envelope. If you want avant-garde plates, look elsewhere; if you want bread done right, this is your spot. Families do well here thanks to simple, low-cost options kids actually eat: peanut butter and jam bagels, chocolate spread, cookies, and cinnamon rolls under a fiver. Portions are friendly, the pace is relaxed, and you can carry everything to The Meadows two blocks away for an easy picnic. There is no kids menu per se, but the menu’s simplicity and pricing make it naturally family friendly.
At a Glance
- Chewy, fresh bagels and standout vegan cinnamon rolls
- Excellent value with £6 combos and low-priced breads
- Cozy, eclectic space with books and local art
- Service can be slow or curt when short-staffed
- Very small seating area; better for takeaway at busy times
What Sets It Apart
- handmade_bagels_baked_daily
- budget_pricing_with_combo_deals
- eclectic_bookish_cafe_vibe
- strong_local_repeat_following
What People Love
- Chewy, authentic-feeling bagels with balanced fillings
- Vegan cinnamon rolls that are moist and generous
- Warm, house-baked breads including challah and sourdough
- Neighborhood feel with real regulars and fair prices
Points of Concern
- Service pace varies; expect 5-15 minutes for made-to-order items during busy or short-staffed periods
- A few reports of brusque or unwelcome tone at the counter
- One historical allegation of gluten-free mislabeling on flapjacks; no recent repeats but celiacs should confirm labeling
- Tiny room and eclectic layout can feel cluttered; seating is limited
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£8-12 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For value: Cream Cheese Beigel + Drink combo at £6
- For vegans: Vegan cinnamon roll and hummus & salad beigel
- For gluten-avoiders: Hazelnut brownie (GF) and pão de queijo (GF), but confirm cross-contamination policies
Perfect For
- Grabbing a quality bagel breakfast on a budget
- Low-key coffee and pastry with a book
- Picnic runs to The Meadows
- Weekly bread pickups for the house
Location Insights
Area: Mixed urban neighborhood near The Meadows with students, locals, and casual foot traffic; indie cafes and small shops.
Safety: Generally safe with steady daytime footfall; typical city vigilance at night.
Nearby: Close to The Meadows for takeaway picnics; near theaters and university buildings; residential streets with corner shops.
West EndThe West End offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, attracting a mix of locals and visitors. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan yet relaxed, with a strong presence of arts and culture influencing the social vibe. It is generally safe and easily accessible, popular for both daytime and evening dining experiences.
Brougham Place areaThis micro-neighborhood around Brougham Place is quieter and more residential compared to the busier parts of the West End, featuring boutique eateries and intimate dining spots. It benefits from proximity to the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and the Usher Hall, drawing a cultured crowd especially during events.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:30–17:00
Tuesday08:30–17:00
Wednesday08:30–17:00
Thursday08:30–17:00
Friday08:30–17:00
Saturday08:30–17:00
Sunday08:30–17:00
Available: Takeout
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