Seemor
BodegaBWorth Trying
14-15 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN
· Restaurant, Mexican restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (758 reviews)
Reservations
Inventive, gluten-free tacos and cocktails in a cozy Leith Walk spot with small portions, lively vibes, and some service and price friction.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Bodega delivers solid neighborhood dining with genuinely friendly, attentive service and creative, flavorful standouts—wings, sea bass, and black bean dip earn consistent praise. However, inconsistent plate temperatures and pacing, combined with recent menu changes that disappointed regulars, prevent a higher grade. The fully gluten-free menu and standout cocktails are genuine assets, but small portions and tight seating limit broader appeal.
Restaurant Summary
Bodega packs a lot of vibe into a small room on Leith Walk, where the lighting is warm, the playlists run lively, and plates land in a steady flow. Diners talk about friendly, on-the-ball staff and cocktails that anchor the night: one guest summed it up as "cozy room, great drinks, and small plates that keep conversation moving." Expect a buzzy scene that can feel tight and energetic, especially toward late service when timing and pacing vary. The kitchen leans modern and playful rather than purist. The culinary approach is creative fusion on a Mexican canvas: think oyster mushrooms in tempura, sea bass with smoky sugo, and wings with bright, punchy glazes. Regulars call out the wings, black bean dip, and sea bass as hits; fish tacos split opinion from brilliant to too fish-forward. Portions are deliberately small, so plan for two to three plates per person and lean into the cocktail-forward mood. Families will find pluses and limits. Multiple coeliac diners praised a fully gluten-free menu, and there are gentler picks like the crispy potato skewer or black bean dip for cautious eaters. That said, options skew bold and portions run small, so picky kids may struggle without a dedicated children menu. If you want easygoing comfort classics, consider alternatives; if your crew likes to share and sample, Bodega can work with a bit of guidance.
At a Glance
- Fully gluten-free menu with several vegan and vegetarian options
- Standout cocktails and a robust non-alcoholic list
- Wings, sea bass, and black bean dip earn frequent praise
- Small portions for the price; expect 2-3 plates per person
- Pacing can be sporadic and late-service cutoffs feel abrupt
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- fully_gluten_free_menu
- creative_margaritas_and_na_program
- fusion_taco_approach
What People Love
- Inventive sauces and bright flavors
- Safe, fully gluten-free ordering
- Warm, contemporary room with buzz
- Creative margaritas and solid NA options
Points of Concern
- Pricing feels high relative to portion size; bills escalate quickly with multiple plates
- Service pacing can be uneven, with gaps that lead to cooling dishes
- Closing-time and table-time policies sometimes feel rushed or unclear
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
- Review patterns show signs of polarization around the new menu; experiences vary more than average
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£35-46 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Black Bean Dip or Padron Peppers, then share two plates per person like Bodega Wings, BBQ'd Sea Bass, and a veg option
- Add a £5 side (Crispy Potato Skewer or Corn Ribs) to round out portions
- Choose individual cocktails over shared jugs if you care about value concentration
Perfect For
- Cocktail-centric date night with sharing plates
- Gluten-free diners seeking variety without stress
- Small groups who enjoy tasting across the menu
- Pre-theatre bite with lively energy
Location Insights
Area: Mixed urban corridor with independent eateries, bars, and shops attracting locals, students, and visitors.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked main road; typical city vigilance recommended during late hours.
Nearby: Near tram line and Leith Walk amenities; convenient for pre-theatre or cinema as noted by reviewers.
New Town EastNew Town East is characterized by Georgian architecture and a blend of residential and commercial spaces. The dining scene is diverse, featuring trendy cafes, gastropubs, and international cuisine, catering to a socially active and culturally engaged crowd. The area is generally safe, accessible, and popular for both casual and upscale dining experiences.
Albert PlaceAlbert Place offers a more tucked-away, village-like atmosphere within New Town East, with boutique restaurants and bars that attract diners looking for quality and ambiance in a less tourist-heavy setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–23:00
Wednesday17:00–23:00
Thursday17:00–23:00
Friday17:00–23:00
Saturday12:30–23:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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