Seemor
DoctorsB+Worth Trying
32 Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN
· Pub, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (3045 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A lively Old Town pub with friendly staff, solid pub classics, and fair pricing; best for drinks and dependable staples, with occasional service and item-availability hiccups.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Doctors delivers reliable neighborhood pub dining with strong food quality anchored by excellent fish and chips and hearty pies, paired with genuinely friendly service. However, inconsistent execution on certain dishes and occasional temperature issues prevent grade A territory. The historic Old Town setting and fair pricing make it competitive with respected local favorites, though families should confirm child access policies before visiting.
Restaurant Summary
Set in Old Town near the university, this pub feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos, especially midweek. Guests talk about friendly bartenders who bring pints to the table and a classic interior that glows at Christmas. One diner captured the vibe: "Lively but still easy to chat, exactly what we wanted for a midweek date." However, there are no notable authenticity concerns in the review pattern. The kitchen leans traditional with light global twists—think fish and chips, steak and ale pie, nachos, plus katsu and karaage touches. The culinary approach feels elevated traditional with fusion notes (innovation level 5.6): familiar pub comfort first, a few modern accents second. Most praise centers on the crispy fish and chips and hearty pies; occasional misses include a cold katsu burger or underwhelming mac. Families should note a crucial caveat: a recent guest reported being turned away with children due to licensing restrictions, despite kid-friendly language seen online. While the menu has items many kids would eat (burgers, mac, chips), access rules may limit family dining. Confirm child policies directly before you go.
At a Glance
- Crispy, well-executed fish and chips are a consistent favorite
- Friendly, welcoming staff with quick service off-peak
- Fair food prices for central Old Town location
- Inconsistent execution on a few dishes and occasional item unavailability
- Possible child access restrictions despite family-friendly signals online
What Sets It Apart
- historic_old_town_pub
- balanced_local_and_tourist_mix
- broad_pub_menu_with_vegan_options
What People Love
- Crispy fish and chips with proper mushy peas
- Genuinely friendly bartenders and servers
- Historic pub atmosphere with seasonal decor
- Reasonable food pricing for the area
- Good small plates for sharing
Points of Concern
- Occasional temperature/undercooked issues reported historically (wings, burger, mac)
- Some menu items unavailable or not supported via the ordering app at times
- Drinks can feel pricey compared with food value
- Review patterns show balanced experiences; a few sharp service complaints appear isolated
- Child access may be restricted by licensing despite kid-friendly references online
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£24-33 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Go classic: Fish and Chips or Steak & Ale Pie for reliable satisfaction.
- Share starters: Haggis Fritters and Karaage Sticky Chicken hit both traditional and modern notes.
- Vegan guests: Beyond Meat Burger and Lemon Tart provide full-meal coverage.
Perfect For
- Casual pub dinner after museum or campus visit
- Pints with friends before a night out
- Visitors seeking a classic pub with solid staples
- Solo travelers wanting a welcoming bar vibe
Location Insights
Area: Historic student-adjacent Old Town strip with steady foot traffic, tourists and locals mixing around the university.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked day and evening; typical city-center pub bustle and late-night crowds.
Nearby: Near University of Edinburgh, National Museum area, busy Old Town corridors; popular pre- and post-sightseeing stop.
Old TownThe Old Town offers a diverse dining environment ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to modern eateries and international cuisine. The social atmosphere is lively and dynamic, with a strong emphasis on heritage and culture, attracting visitors throughout the year. It is well-connected and generally safe, with a mix of casual and upscale dining venues.
SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area within the Old Town known for its eclectic mix of affordable restaurants, cafes, and bars, popular among university students and creative professionals. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a focus on casual dining and socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–00:30
Saturday12:00–00:30
Sunday12:00–22:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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