Seemor
Greek Artisan PastriesB+Worth Trying
23 Bread St, Edinburgh EH3 9AL
· Bakery
· 4.8/5 Google (506 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Authentic Greek bakery-cafe for excellent pastries and coffee at budget prices, with mostly warm service and occasional brusque interactions; best for a casual sweet or savory bite.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Greek Artisan Pastries delivers excellent traditional Greek pastries with standout baklava and spanakopita, supported by friendly, attentive counter service and exceptional value for money. Limited seating and occasional consistency variation in pastry freshness prevent a higher grade, though the bakery excels as a reliable, budget-friendly neighborhood stop for quality Greek bakes and coffee.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from Lothian Road, this Greek bakery-cafe feels warm and bustling when the pastry case is full and the coffee grinder hums. Reviewers rave about syrup-soaked classics and friendly counter help, with one noting, "The spanakopita was amazing and the staff could not have been nicer." Space is tight and perching seats fill quickly, but the vibe remains casual and welcoming for a quick stop. Expect a central-city crowd with a mix of locals and visitors heading to the castle, and a display that makes restraint tough. The culinary approach is time-honored Greek baking rather than flashy fusion, leaning traditional and comforting (innovation level 3.6): baklava, bougatsa, kataifi, and savory pies baked fresh, especially in the morning. Sweetness runs syrupy by design; most love the balance while a few prefer drier bakes. Coffee is widely praised, though one or two found it uneven. If you want reliable classics at wallet-friendly prices, this is a strong everyday choice for a pastry and coffee rather than a sit-down meal. Families do well here thanks to cookies, chocolate cake, and simple savory pies that kids actually eat, plus quick counter service. There is no formal kids menu, but items like koulouri, custard pies, and mild cheese or spinach pastries are easy wins. Seating is limited, so plan for a brief perch or takeaway when busy.
At a Glance
- Excellent traditional Greek pastries with standout spanakopita and baklava
- Budget-friendly pricing for central Edinburgh
- Friendly counter service and quick turnaround during most visits
- Limited seating and occasional brusque interactions at peak times
- A few reports of pastries served cold or overly syrupy for some tastes
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_greek_grocery_corner
- morning_fresh_bakes
- budget_pricing_in_city_center
What People Love
- Syrupy, crunchy baklava that pairs with Greek coffee
- Flaky, savory spanakopita called best of trip by several
- Morning trays coming out of the oven for peak freshness
- Cheerful counter help with helpful recommendations
Points of Concern
- Service tone varies: a few guests reported blunt or dismissive interactions during busy periods
- Seating is limited; expect to perch or take away at peak times
- Occasional variability in temperature and texture (a report of cold pastries; some find syrup levels heavy)
- Coffee quality praised overall but not universally consistent
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£7-11 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a £3.50 pastry (baklava or galaktoboureko) with a coffee for a budget-friendly treat
- For groups, consider a £17.90 tray (saraigli or cocoa swirl) to share
- Vegetarian diners have many options; vegan spanakopita is listed but confirm availability
Perfect For
- Quick breakfast before sightseeing
- Afternoon coffee and sweet treat
- Takeaway dessert for sharing
- Casual meet-up with a light bite
Location Insights
Area: Busy central-city stretch near Lothian Road with mixed offices, theaters, and student footfall; casual daytime energy.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during the day and early evening; standard city-center vigilance at night.
Nearby: Close to Edinburgh Castle approach, cinemas, and shops; attracts both locals and visitors seeking quick coffee and pastries.
Old TownThe dining scene in Old Town is diverse, ranging from traditional Scottish pubs and historic taverns to modern bistros and international cuisine. The area is lively, especially during festivals, with a mix of casual and upscale dining options catering to visitors and locals alike.
SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area within Old Town known for its eclectic mix of eateries, cafes, and bars. It has a youthful and artistic vibe, attracting a crowd interested in innovative dining experiences and social nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–17:00
Tuesday08:00–17:00
Wednesday08:00–17:00
Thursday08:00–17:00
Friday08:00–17:00
Saturday08:00–17:00
Sunday09:00–16:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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