Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A friendly, family-run curry house with playful Scottish-Indian twists, generous portions, and BYOB vibes; food ranges from homely good to occasionally uneven, with spice levels milder than some expect.
Kismot delivers solid neighborhood curry house quality with strong food quality anchored by flavorful homestyle curries and playful Scottish-Indian specials like Irn Bruna and Haggis Nan. Warm, welcoming service and generous portions with BYOB appeal strengthen its standing, but inconsistent execution—occasional dry naan and variable spice levels— prevents a higher grade. A reliable local favorite rather than a destination restaurant.
A cozy, family-run spot in the Southside where service is often described as warm and welcoming. The room can be quiet on some nights and lively during festival season, and more than one diner mentions that a staff member turned a slow start into a genuinely enjoyable evening. Expect homestyle cooking, big portions, and the occasional twist that sparks conversation, like someone saying the bread was a "fun dessert in disguise." The cooking leans elevated traditional with local flair: think comfort-first curries with playful Scottish influences like Irn Bruna and Haggis Nan rather than chefy theatrics. Most dishes land as hearty and satisfying, though a few reviews note mild heat or the odd off night with dry naan or slower pacing. If you want uncompromising, chili-forward heat, ask for it clearly; otherwise the default tends toward gentle spice. For families, this is a solid pick. There is a Kids Chicken Nuggets plate, plenty of mild options, and simple sides like chips and rice. Chocolate Naan doubles as a crowd-pleasing sweet. The menu has many vegetarian and some vegan choices, so you can keep everyone happy without hunting. Just note that the infamous Kismot Killer curry is an outlier for daredevils, not typical family fare.
Area: Student-heavy Southside near universities, mixed residential and small businesses with a casual, local vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked on main roads; quieter late evenings.
Nearby: Close to University of Edinburgh precincts, Fringe venues in August, and Holyrood/Arthur's Seat within a walk.
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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