Seemor
David Bann RestaurantA-Worth Trying
56-58 St Mary's St, Edinburgh EH1 1SX
· Vegetarian restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1852 reviews)
Reservations
Modern vegetarian dining with creative plates and standout desserts; service and value are generally good though occasional lapses and polarizing flavors occur.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
David Bann delivers exceptional food quality anchored by creative vegetarian cooking and standout desserts, supported by attentive, knowledgeable service. Occasional consistency variations in seasoning and temperature prevent grade A territory, though the restaurant remains competitive with the area's better neighborhood establishments. Strong loyalty and a pleasant Old Town setting reinforce its appeal to vegetarian diners seeking thoughtful, artfully presented cuisine.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off the Royal Mile, David Bann feels modern and calm rather than noisy Old Town bustle. Guests talk about polished plates, gracious servers, and desserts that steal the show, with one diner musing, "the risotto was perfectly cooked and the sweets sealed the deal." It is a spot where vegetarians and omnivores linger over courses, though a few find the vibe a touch stark at times. The culinary approach leans creative and globally minded: cross-cultural flavors show up in miso sauces, Syrian-inspired kibbeh, chocolate notes in savory dishes, and precise risotti. When the kitchen is on song, flavors are deep and balanced; a minority report sweetness or muted spice. If you enjoy thoughtful vegetarian cooking with artful presentation, this is your lane. Families will find a welcoming room and a few simpler anchors like soup, bread, chips, and eggs, but the menu skews adventurous and inventive. Kids who like trying new things may thrive; picky eaters might prefer the plainer sides or pasta-like options. Expect clearly labeled vegetarian choices, many gluten-free tags, and vegan adaptations, but confirm details if strict needs apply.
At a Glance
- Creative vegetarian menu with standout desserts
- Friendly, professional table service with good guidance
- Flavors can skew sweet or mild for some palates
- Occasional slow pacing or temperature lapses on mains
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- creative_vegetarian_cuisine
- signature_house_smoked_tofu
- dessert_assiette_for_two
What People Love
- Emotional punch from expertly cooked risotto
- House-smoked tofu that surprises even skeptics
- Inventive desserts and ice creams that end meals on a high
- Attentive staff who tailor spice and offer confident recommendations
- Comfortable spacing that makes lingering easy
Points of Concern
- Some dishes read fine-dining but taste muted or skew sweet for certain diners
- Infrequent service lapses: slow check-ins, mishandled group incident, and one report of inappropriate touch
- Occasional lukewarm mains or smaller portions compared to expectations
- Creative/fusion menu may not suit conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£38-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Smoked and Marinated Tofu (£5.50), follow with Risotto alla Norma (£18.95), and share the Dessert Assiette (£15.50) for a balanced three-course flow at roughly £42-45 before drinks
- For gluten-free diners, look for GF tags on mains like Mexican Bean Chilli and Double Baked Pudding
Perfect For
- Date night where both diners enjoy plant-forward cooking
- Celebration dinner with vegetarian or mixed-diet group
- Solo meal near the Royal Mile seeking calm over bustle
- Visitors wanting a destination vegetarian experience
Location Insights
Area: Historic Old Town corridor popular with visitors and locals; mix of heritage sites, pubs, and destination eateries.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic especially evenings; standard city-center awareness advised.
Nearby: Close to Royal Mile attractions, hotels, and independent shops; steady tourist flow complements local dining.
St Mary's StreetSt Mary's Street is a lively area within Edinburgh's Old Town, featuring a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The dining scene includes a variety of pubs, casual eateries, and some upscale restaurants, catering to both visitors and locals. The atmosphere is bustling, especially during festivals and weekends, with a mix of casual and refined dining options.
SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area south of the Royal Mile, known for its eclectic mix of affordable eateries, student-friendly venues, and cultural spots. It has a relaxed yet energetic vibe, popular among younger crowds and those seeking diverse dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
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