Seemor
GiulianosBWorth Trying
18-19 Union Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3NQ
· Italian restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1474 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Traditional Italian near the Playhouse with generous portions and quick pre-theatre service; value is solid, but service consistency varies.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Giulianos delivers solid neighborhood Italian dining with reliable food quality and convenient Playhouse-adjacent location that make it a practical choice for pre-theatre meals. However, inconsistent execution—ranging from soggy pizza to well-executed pasta— and uneven service ranging from friendly to brusque prevent it from reaching higher standards. Fair value and generous portions appeal to families and repeat visitors, but it remains a dependable neighborhood spot rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
A handy spot near the Playhouse, Giulianos feels warm and bustling when the curtain time looms. Many diners note friendly, quick service and generous plates, while a minority reports brusque interactions or slow attention. One guest summed it up: "Perfect before the show, good portions, and we were not rushed." The cooking leans traditional and satisfying rather than flashy, with a classic Italian comfort lineup of pastas, pizzas, steaks, and beloved tiramisu. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional: familiar flavors, hearty sauces, and reliable crowd-pleasers more than experimentation. If you want dependable pasta, focaccia, and classic desserts at fair central prices, it fits the bill. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly pizza and pasta, simple salads, and the option to request smaller portions. Vegetarians have several choices, but vegan diners may struggle despite prior phone checks. Expect casual service rhythms at peak pre-theatre times and plan accordingly.
At a Glance
- Strong pre-theatre value and location
- Generous portions with classic Italian flavors
- Service inconsistency from warm to brusque
- Limited vegan options despite some assurances
- Possible automatic service charge reported by guests
What Sets It Apart
- pre_theatre_special
- classic_italian_comforts
- portions_with_baby_size_option
What People Love
- Hearty portions that feel good value
- Quick turnaround before performances
- Classic desserts like tiramisu
- Traditional decor with a cozy vibe
Points of Concern
- Service can swing from attentive to brusque; a few reports of shouting and indifference during busy times
- Vegan selection is minimal despite pre-call confirmations, causing frustration for some groups
- Occasional quality dips (soggy pizza, hard meatballs, over-salted seafood) reported
- Review patterns show mostly authentic voices with mixed tones; no strong manipulation signals
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£26-38 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Use the £19.50 pre-theatre for structured three courses
- Value picks: Margherita £7.90, Pizza Carne £9.90, Bolognese £7.50
- Desserts around £4-6 offer a sweet finish without breaking the bank
Perfect For
- Dinner before a Playhouse show
- Casual family meal with hearty portions
- Classic Italian comfort cravings
- Travelers seeking quick, reliable pasta or pizza
Location Insights
Area: Busy Playhouse/Leith Walk edge with theatres, tourists, and locals; pre-show rush common.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked cultural corridor with evening footfall and lighting.
Nearby: Opposite/near Edinburgh Playhouse, hotels, bars, and Leith Walk amenities; strong pre-theatre demand.
Old TownThe Old Town offers a diverse dining environment ranging from casual pubs and traditional Scottish eateries to upscale restaurants and trendy cafes. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with a strong emphasis on heritage and modern urban culture, attracting a mix of visitors and locals throughout the day and evening.
Union PlaceUnion Place is a small but well-frequented street within the Old Town, known for its proximity to major tourist attractions and a selection of eateries catering to both quick bites and relaxed dining. It maintains a friendly and accessible vibe, often busy during lunch and early evening hours.
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, Delivery, Takeout
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