Seemor
Leo's BeaneryB+Worth Trying
23A Howe St, Edinburgh EH3 6TF
· Cafe, Breakfast restaurant, Brunch restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (614 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming, cozy cafe with standout coffee, friendly vibe, and a brunch menu that suits both comfort-seekers and light, seasonal eaters—expect crowds, time limits, and occasional service rigidity.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Leo's Beanery delivers solid neighborhood cafe quality anchored by excellent food quality—particularly house-baked breads and carefully prepared coffee—and appealing cozy design. However, tight physical space and service inconsistencies around table timing and follow-ups prevent a higher grade. It's a worth-visiting local favorite for brunch and coffee lovers, especially during quieter hours.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked just off Howe Street, the room feels warm and cozy with wood tones and the easy hum of a neighborhood favorite. Service often lands as genuinely friendly, and more than one guest called the flat white a small joy. Do expect weekend bustle and a firm approach to table timing, captured by one diner who said their visit felt busy but welcoming overall. The cooking leans classic cafe-brunch with house bakes and solid coffee craft rather than showy technique, a comfort-forward approach that suits morning regulars and visiting brunch-hunters alike. Standouts include the benedict-style eggs with rich hollandaise, seasonal soups, and that toasted coconut or banana bread that wins lots of smiles. If you like simple plates done well with quality ingredients, this place delivers. Portions are generally fair, though a few found certain items petite, and coffees can feel on the smaller side. For families, it works: there are kid-friendly choices like porridge, granola, breakfast rolls, and French toast. Just note the tight space and time limits at peak hours; off-peak visits will be easier. Vegan and vegetarian options are clearly present (avocado toast, veggie toasts, vegan French toast), and several guests mentioned successful gluten-free accommodations, making it accessible for common diets within a classic cafe frame.
At a Glance
- Cozy wooden space with welcoming staff and excellent coffee
- House-baked breads and reliable brunch staples shine
- Time limits and no-laptop policy can feel rigid
- Coffee sizes and some portions run small for price
- Good vegetarian/vegan presence; gluten-free accommodations reported
What Sets It Apart
- signature-coconut-bread
- cozy-wooden-interior
- hidden-gem-setting
- robust-veggie-vegan-options-for-a-cafe
What People Love
- The cozy, hidden-gem vibe that feels local
- Silky hollandaise and well-poached eggs
- Toasted coconut or banana bread with butter
- Flat whites and lattes that hit the spot
- Kind, personable staff interactions
Points of Concern
- Firm time limits and a no-laptop policy can feel unfriendly if you plan to linger
- Perceived small drink sizes and add-on charges surprise some guests
- Service can wobble at peak times with table shuffles or missed order follow-ups
- A few isolated reports of overcooked items or dry bakes
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost£22-30 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For best value, try Soup & Half Sandwich (£9.50-£10.50) plus a regular coffee
- Vegetarians: Leo's Breakfast Toasts - Veggie (£14.95) or Croque-Mon-Scone (£10.95)
- Vegan pathway: Avocado Toast (£9.95) and Vegan French Toast (£11.95)
Perfect For
- A relaxed brunch date before strolling Stockbridge
- Coffee and cake stop during a New Town wander
- Veggie-forward breakfast with omni options for friends
- Solo window perch when you are off the laptop
Location Insights
Area: Leafy, affluent New Town edge near Stockbridge with a mix of residents, boutique shoppers, and office workers; relaxed daytime crowd.
Safety: Generally very safe, well-maintained streets with steady daytime foot traffic.
Nearby: Close to Stockbridge shops, residential blocks, and other cafes; popular for weekend brunch and weekday coffee runs.
New TownThe dining scene in New Town is diverse, featuring a mix of high-end restaurants, trendy cafes, and traditional pubs. The area attracts a sophisticated crowd looking for quality dining experiences in a stylish and historic setting, with a lively yet refined social atmosphere.
West EndThe West End, part of New Town, is known for its artistic vibe, independent eateries, and quieter streets compared to the city center. It offers a more intimate dining environment with a focus on innovative and locally sourced cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–14:30
Tuesday09:00–14:30
Wednesday09:00–14:30
Thursday09:00–14:30
Friday09:00–14:30
Saturday09:30–14:30
Sunday09:30–14:30
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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