Seemor
Badger & CoAMust Try
32 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3HT
· Scottish restaurant, Bar, Beer garden
· 4.6/5 Google (2002 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Charming Wind in the Willows-themed spot serving modern Scottish dishes with strong cocktails and polished plating; food impresses most diners, though service can wobble at peak times and prices are premium for portion size.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Badger & Co exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like steak and peppercorn pie and scallops with haggis accents, paired with distinctive setting appeal that captures the whimsy of its Wind in the Willows theme without sacrificing polish. Warm, attentive service and consistent execution across most dimensions position it among Edinburgh's finest modern Scottish dining destinations, though occasional peak-time delays and refined portions prevent higher distinction.
Restaurant Summary
Set on Castle Street in New Town, Badger & Co pairs modern Scottish cooking with a playful nod to Kenneth Grahame, and the room feels warm and whimsical without tipping into kitsch. Service is often praised as warm and attentive, and one diner captured the vibe perfectly: "Gentle buzz, polished plates, and staff who actually seem happy you came." Most nights bring a lively but relaxed hum; off-season can be pleasantly quiet. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: classic flavors with modern twists like miso gravy, squid ink tuille, and dukkha crumb. Signatures that keep coming up include the steak and peppercorn pie, crisp fish and chips, pork croquettes, scallops with haggis accents, and a sticky toffee finale. Portions skew refined rather than hefty and prices are premium for the area, but many guests feel quality and execution justify the spend. Families find a welcome here, with staff generally kind to kids and even dogs; menu-wise, the safer picks are fish and chips, the wagyu burger, and mac and cheese from the sides. Adventurous mains (venison, wellington, tartare) may be a stretch for picky eaters, and the modern style means smaller portions than pub classics. If dining with youngsters, consider early bookings and those approachable dishes.
At a Glance
- Modern Scottish menu with creative accents and polished plating
- Cozy, whimsical setting tied to the author of Wind in the Willows
- Friendly service with proactive issue resolution at times
- Peak-time delays and occasional ticket mishaps
- Portions run small on some dishes relative to price
What Sets It Apart
- wind_in_the_willows_theme_in_author_birthplace
- modern_scottish_menu_with_creative_accents
- strong_cocktail_program
What People Love
- Charming theme and stylish interiors
- Well-cooked steaks, pies, and fish and chips
- Thoughtful server recommendations
- Sticky toffee dessert that ends the night right
- Creative flourishes that feel modern but grounded
Points of Concern
- Occasional long waits or lost tickets during busy service; usually acknowledged and sometimes discounted
- Portions on small plates and some mains can feel modest for the price
- Isolated execution misses (e.g., gnocchi texture, one-off sea bass freshness) not reflective of majority
- Solo diners report mixed warmth from staff depending on shift
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For conservative palates: fish & chips (£19) or wagyu burger (£22)
- For vegetarians: beetroot & wild mushroom wellington (£22) or butternut gnocchi (£20)
- For seafood fans: smoked salmon (£11) to start, wild sea bass (£28) for mains
- Add a side: truffle & parmesan chips (£6) to bolster portions
Perfect For
- Date night with a Scottish twist
- Out-of-towners exploring New Town
- Cocktails and small plates before a show
- Celebratory dinners with refined comfort dishes
Location Insights
Area: Elegant commercial spine of New Town near Princes Street; draws shoppers, office workers, and visitors seeking classic Edinburgh charm.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic; typical central-city bustle.
Nearby: Steps from Princes Street retail, George Street bars, hotels, and sights; easy pre- or post-theatre and shopping stop.
New TownNew Town offers a sophisticated dining environment with a range of restaurants from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. The area is popular among business professionals during weekdays and tourists exploring the city’s historic and cultural attractions. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, with a focus on quality and variety in cuisine.
Castle StreetCastle Street is a quieter, more refined micro-neighborhood within New Town, known for its proximity to Edinburgh Castle and a selection of boutique eateries and bars. It attracts a mix of locals and tourists seeking a more intimate dining experience away from the busier main streets.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–00:00
Friday00:00–23:59
Saturday12:00–01:00, 10:00–01:00
Sunday10:00–01:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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