Seemor
Bella Sicily EdinburghB+Worth Trying
15 N St Andrew St, Edinburgh EH2 1HJ
· Italian restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (113 reviews)
Reservations
Warm, family-run Italian spot delivering flavorful pizza and pasta with personable service; expect occasional waits and a few inconsistencies.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Bella Sicily Edinburgh delivers solid neighborhood Italian dining with warm, attentive service and fresh pasta and well-executed pizzas that earn consistent praise. However, notable variance in execution—scrambled carbonara, oversalted pasta—prevents higher grades, and service pacing inconsistency during peak times limits reliability. The convenient Waverley location and family-run charm make it a dependable choice for casual Italian, particularly families, but it falls short of the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
A cozy, family-run room near Waverley where the team greets you like regulars, the walls show off family photos, and plates land with comforting aromas of pasta and pizza. Service is frequently described as warm and attentive, with one guest gushing that the staff "made our night." The vibe skews relaxed and welcoming rather than formal, though peak times can feel a touch lively and bustling. Most diners leave glowing, while a minority note uneven pacing or execution. The cooking leans classic Italian comfort—carbonara, seafood pastas, and tiramisu—more elevated traditional than experimental. Reviewers praise fresh pasta and flavorful sauces, calling out dishes like tagliatelle pescatore and ossobuco pappardelle, while pizza earns compliments for dough and balance. Not every plate hits: a few report bland or scrambled carbonara or oversalted amatriciana. Still, the overall impression is a reliable neighborhood Italian that delivers satisfaction without theatrics. Families are well cared for, with staff accommodating early seating for hungry kids and plenty of familiar options like pizza, carbonara, and fries. Allergy-aware service gets shoutouts, and vegetarian choices appear workable. If your crew needs cutting-edge flavors, this may not be the match; but for straightforward Italian that kids recognize, it is an easy yes for family meals.
At a Glance
- Friendly, attentive family-run service with genuine warmth
- Fresh pasta, well-liked pizzas, and standout tiramisu
- Central location near Waverley makes it convenient pre- or post-outing
- Service pace can slow at peak times; occasional chaotic feel
- A few dishes inconsistent (scrambled/bland carbonara, oversalted amatriciana)
What Sets It Apart
- family_run_hospitality
- central_new_town_location
- willingness_to_customize_off_menu
What People Love
- Feeling welcomed by a personable, family-run team
- Fresh, flavorful pasta and seafood specials
- Neapolitan-leaning pizzas with satisfying dough
- Classic desserts, especially the tiramisu
- Central New Town convenience
Points of Concern
- Occasional long waits for food during busy periods despite simple orders
- Inconsistent execution on a few pasta dishes (carbonara texture, seasoning on amatriciana)
- Perception of high prices by a minority, though most call value reasonable
- One serious illness allegation tied to osso buco or calamari; unverified but noted as isolated
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Ask about the traditional carbonara option if that is your preference
- Seafood-focused pastas and tiramisu are safe bets based on consistent praise
- If pacing matters, consider pizza or simpler pasta for faster turnaround
Perfect For
- Casual date night with comforting Italian classics
- Family dinner before or after city activities
- Visiting friends near Waverley Station
- Small celebrations where warm service matters
Location Insights
Area: Central New Town near St Andrew Square and Waverley, popular with office workers, shoppers, and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit with steady foot traffic, especially evenings and weekends.
Nearby: Close to Edinburgh Waverley Station, St James Quarter shopping, museums and galleries; convenient pre-theatre or post-shopping dining.
New TownThe dining scene in New Town is diverse, featuring a range of options from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. The area attracts a mix of locals and visitors who enjoy stylish, contemporary venues alongside traditional Scottish fare. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, with many restaurants catering to business lunches, social dinners, and weekend brunches.
St Andrew SquareSt Andrew Square is a focal point within New Town, known for its elegant public gardens and proximity to financial institutions. The dining options here tend to be more upscale, attracting professionals during the workweek and visitors seeking quality dining experiences in a polished setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–21:30
Wednesday12:00–21:30
Thursday12:00–21:30
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
View full analysis on Seemor →