Seemor
Howies Waterloo PlaceBWorth Trying
29 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ
· Scottish restaurant, Event venue, Lunch restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (4187 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Modern Scottish cooking with great value set menus and standout haggis, but uneven service at the door and pace issues mean experiences can vary.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Howies Waterloo Place delivers reliable Scottish dining with strong food quality anchored by haggis, venison, and seafood, plus a well-regarded two-course value. However, quality variation in execution and inconsistent front-of-house warmth prevent grade A territory—some guests encounter brusque receptions that undercut the friendly table service others praise. Worth visiting for authentic Scottish classics if in the area, though service reliability remains a concern.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off Princes Street, Howies feels warm and bustling with a steady stream of visitors and locals celebrating milestones. Guests rave about attentive servers and Scottish hospitality, though several describe a brusque front desk that can sour arrivals. "We loved the haggis and friendly service, but the hostess made us feel unwelcome" captures the split. The cooking leans elevated traditional Scottish: haggis with whisky pairing, tender venison casseroles, and simple fish mains. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: careful tweaks like harissa cauliflower and nutty risotto rather than showy fusion. Expect reliable comfort with highlights like sticky toffee pudding, plus a strong-value two-course deal. Families do well here: steaks, salmon, shepherds pie, fries, and ice cream sundaes read as kid-friendly choices. There is no explicit kids menu noted, but portions are manageable and desserts win smiles. For picky eaters, stick to simpler mains; the vegan risotto and more adventurous starters may be less appealing.
At a Glance
- Excellent two-course value and classic Scottish dishes
- Friendly table service with good allergy handling
- Front-of-house attitude varies; some guests feel unwelcome
- Timing can be slow or rushed during peak demand
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- value_two_course_menu
- classic_scottish_specialties
- private_dining_room_events
What People Love
- Emotional comfort of haggis done right
- Warm, friendly servers who guide pairings
- Sticky toffee pudding that ends meals on a high
- Great-value set menu that feels like a win
Points of Concern
- Hostess/front desk interactions repeatedly described as rude or dismissive; affects first impressions
- Pacing can be inconsistent: long waits on busy nights or courses arriving too quickly
- Some dishes (salmon, steak) occasionally overcooked; vegan risotto underwhelms
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (templated responses, tourist concentration) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Pricing is moderate but steaks and lobster carry a real premium
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Cullen skink (£7.25) or haggis, then salmon or shepherds pie (£11.75-14.75), finish with sticky toffee (£7.95). Add a whisky for a classic pairing.
Perfect For
- Trying Scottish classics without breaking the bank
- Pre-theatre dinner near Princes Street
- Family gatherings and private events
- Solo travelers seeking a comfortable sit-down meal
Location Insights
Area: Elegant Georgian east end near Calton Hill; mixes business travelers, tourists, and theatre-goers.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main thoroughfare; busy during festival seasons and evenings.
Nearby: Near Princes Street, Calton Hill, hotels, and transport links; strong tourist and office footfall.
New TownThe dining scene in New Town is diverse, featuring a mix of high-end restaurants, trendy cafes, and traditional pubs. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, attracting both business diners and visitors exploring the city. The area is safe, walkable, and well-connected, making it a popular spot for social and culinary experiences.
Waterloo PlaceWaterloo Place is a prestigious street within New Town, known for its elegant buildings and proximity to key city landmarks. Dining here tends to be more refined, with several notable restaurants and bars catering to a discerning clientele seeking quality and ambiance.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–14:30, 17:15–22:30
Tuesday11:30–14:30, 17:15–22:30
Wednesday11:30–14:30, 17:15–22:30
Thursday11:30–14:30, 17:15–22:30
Friday11:30–15:00, 17:15–22:30
Saturday11:30–15:00, 17:15–22:30
Sunday11:30–15:00, 17:15–22:30
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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