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Holy CowBWorth Trying

Name: Holy Cow
Address: 34 Elder St, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

34 Elder St, Edinburgh EH1 3DX · Cafe, Vegan restaurant, Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (1594 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Creative vegan cafe with standout sandwiches, burgers, and cakes, generally delicious and generous, but service can be inconsistent at busy times.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Holy Cow delivers solid vegan dining with exceptional burger and Reuben execution and generous portions at fair pricing, earning its reputation as an Edinburgh vegan destination. However, inconsistent execution on desserts and occasional service friction during peak hours prevents grade A-level standing. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful gluten-free options make it a worthwhile neighborhood favorite rather than a premier dining destination.

Restaurant Summary

Tucked just off the top of Leith Walk, Holy Cow feels like a small, creative vegan oasis where the vibe is cozy and welcoming. Diners rave about generous plates and friendly staff, with one guest beaming, "My Reuben was two full meals and utterly delightful." At rush times the flow can wobble—seating and order pacing vary—so aim for off-peak visits if you can. The cooking leans modern and globally curious: plant-based riffs like oyster mushroom steak burgers, seitan Reubens, carrot lox, and a no-mackerel patty bring playful technique and flavor. Most plates land with gusto—especially the burgers, Reuben, and fries—though a minority found certain cakes bland or a dish overcooked. Portions are hearty and pricing fair for central Edinburgh, best for those who enjoy bold vegan flavors without fine-dining formality. Families should do well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like burgers, fries, smoothies, and simpler sandwiches. There is no dedicated kids menu, but large portions make sharing easy. Gluten-free options are clearly marked and several guests felt safe, including a celiac diner who praised a separate fryer and the full GF breakfast; still, check with staff if allergies are critical, and avoid spicier or kimchi-heavy items for picky eaters.

At a Glance

Big, flavorful vegan burgers and a cult-favorite Reuben
Generous portions and fair mid-range pricing
Multiple gluten-free options; separate fryer reported by diners
Service pace and acknowledgment can slip at peak times
Desserts occasionally inconsistent in flavor or texture

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

Crispy-tender oyster mushroom burger
Huge, flavor-packed Reuben
Proper chips praised by fry lovers
Filling, comforting vegan full breakfast

Points of Concern

Service can be slow or disorganized during rushes; some guests waited long to be acknowledged
A minority report bland or overly bicarb-forward cakes; whole special-order cakes drew mixed feedback
Occasional temperature or doneness issues (cold soup, overcooked fries/bread) show some variability
Hybrid service model can be confusing for first-timers about where and when to order

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average Cost£22-32 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For classic comfort: Quarter Pounder with Organic Handmade Chips
For lighter freshness: Pad Thai Salad or Root Veggies Bowl
For bold flavors: Reuben Sandwich or Nori Fish sandwich if you enjoy seaweed notes

Perfect For

Casual vegan brunch before sightseeing
Hearty sandwich-and-chips lunch
Coffee-and-cake break in the city center
Mixed-diet groups seeking creative plant-based comfort food

Location Insights

Area: Central Edinburgh near the top of Leith Walk and Broughton, a mixed residential and indie retail area popular with students and visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during day and early evening; typical city-center vigilance at night.

Nearby: Close to St James Quarter, Leith Walk cafes, and city-center hotels; convenient for sightseeing and shopping breaks.

Old TownThe Old Town offers a diverse dining environment ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to modern bistros and international cuisine. The area is lively, especially during festivals, with a mix of casual and upscale dining venues catering to visitors and locals alike.

SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area within the Old Town known for its eclectic mix of eateries, affordable dining options, and a youthful, creative atmosphere influenced by nearby universities.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–22:00 Tuesday12:00–22:00 Wednesday12:00–22:00 Thursday12:00–22:00 Friday10:00–22:00 Saturday10:00–22:00 Sunday10:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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