Seemor
Chennai's MarinaBWorth Trying
54 Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9JB
· Indian restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1069 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Excellent South Indian cooking with standout dosas and thalis at fair prices, but service speed and occasional execution lapses mean patience helps.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Marina delivers solid South Indian cooking with excellent dosa and thali execution at fair prices, earning strong repeat loyalty. However, inconsistent quality on biryani and occasional soggy dosa combined with variable service during busy periods prevent grade A territory. The convenient Newington location and genuine staff warmth make it a worthwhile neighborhood destination for authentic South Indian cravings, though execution reliability needs strengthening.
Restaurant Summary
On Clerk Street in Newington, this spot leans into South Indian comfort with a room that feels cozy and unfussy. Service ranges from warmly attentive to stretched thin at peaks, but when it clicks, diners describe staff as genuinely helpful and portions as big enough to satisfy a craving. One guest summed it up simply: “that dosa crunch with the chutneys hit the spot.” The cooking centers on regional classics—dosa, idli, thali—supported by Chettinad and Malabar curries plus a few Indo‑Chinese riffs. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with the occasional fusion flourish (think Schezwan dosa), and the kitchen shines most with Mysore masala dosa, Kari dosa, and balanced thalis. Prices are moderate for the quality, and value feels strong when the kitchen is on form. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like plain dosa, idli, curd rice, butter naan, and mild curries. There is no explicit kids menu, but the current menu has many simple, gentle flavors alongside spicier options; just ask staff for milder preparations and chutney guidance.
At a Glance
- Best-in-class Mysore masala dosa with excellent chutneys and sambar
- Strong value via generous portions and moderate pricing
- Service can be slow or inattentive during busy times
- Execution variability on biryani and occasional soggy dosa
- 10% service charge frequently added to bills
What Sets It Apart
- deep_dosa_selection
- regional_chettinad_specialties
- strong_vegan_options
- value_thalis
What People Love
- Crispy dosas with vibrant chutneys
- Balanced spice in Chettinad and Malabar curries
- Thalis that showcase consistency across small dishes
- Warm, specific recommendations from named servers
Points of Concern
- Intermittent long waits for menus, food, and payment reported by several diners
- A few food safety or foreign object complaints, though isolated
- Biryani quality inconsistent; some find it bland or meaty portions too bony
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (very high five-star share and marketing-style language) which may not reflect a typical experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£22-30 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Vadai (£5.45) or Gobi 65 (Vegan, £6.95) before sharing a Mysore Masala Dosa (£9.75)
- Pair Chettinad Kozhi Curry (£12.05) with Ghee Rice (£5.95) for a rich, aromatic combo
- For vegan mains, Kadalai Curry (£9.25) or Paruppu Keerai (£9.25) with Coconut Rice (£4.95)
Perfect For
- A dosa-focused casual dinner
- Students or groups seeking authentic South Indian flavors
- Vegetarian and vegan diners wanting real choice
- Pre-show meal near the Meadows or Fringe venues
Location Insights
Area: Student-heavy, lively Newington corridor with independent cafes and affordable eateries near the University of Edinburgh; mixed local and visitor footfall.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main road with good lighting and steady evening activity.
Nearby: Close to university buildings, the Meadows, and Fringe venues; good pre-show dining and casual meetups.
Old TownThe Old Town is a bustling area with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. It features a diverse dining scene ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to contemporary eateries, attracting a wide range of visitors and locals. The atmosphere is lively, especially during festivals and university terms, with a blend of casual and upscale dining options.
SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area within the Old Town known for its eclectic mix of affordable restaurants, cafes, and bars. It has a youthful and creative vibe, supported by the nearby university community, making it popular for casual dining and social gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:30–22:30
Tuesday12:30–22:30
Wednesday12:30–22:30
Thursday12:30–22:30
Friday09:00–22:30
Saturday09:00–22:30
Sunday09:00–22:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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