Seemor
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine BarAMust Try
56 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3SA
· French restaurant, Wine bar
· 4.7/5 Google (570 reviews)
Reservations
A polished French bistro with table-side tartare, rich classics, and a warmly professional team; excellent overall, priced on the higher side and best for adventurous eaters.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
L'Escargot Bleu exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality and outstanding service attentiveness paired with strong wine knowledge. Regulars return consistently for signature dishes like steak tartare and beef Bourguignon, while the charming bistro setting with wine bar creates an authentic Parisian experience. Pricing reflects the caliber of execution, making this a destination for serious French dining in Edinburgh.
Restaurant Summary
A classic Edinburgh bistro with warm, polished service and shelves of Burgundy, L'Escargot Bleu feels like a quick trip to Paris. Diners gush about table-side theatrics and well-timed pacing, saying things like, "the team knew the wines and let us linger without rushing." It is a place where regulars return happily, and visitors plan their evenings around steak tartare mixed to taste. Pricing is on the higher side, but the consensus is that quality delivers serious comfort. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional French: classics executed with finesse rather than avant-garde flourishes. Expect rich sauces, slow braises, and seafood done with care; signatures like escargots, beef Bourguignon, and the Chocolate Nemesis headline the experience. Wine pairing guidance is a strong suit, and daily specials (think lobster or scallop-and-pigeon surf-and-turf) add variety for those who like chef-driven touches. Families should note that the menu is not tailored to picky eaters. Reviewers highlight limited vegetarian choices and minimal vegan options beyond sides and salads; there is no kids menu mentioned. If your crew loves tartare, snails, and braises, older children might be fine, but for simpler fare this is better as an adult-focused treat than a family standby.
At a Glance
- Table-side steak tartare is a standout signature
- Cozy bistro ambiance with a strong wine program
- Rich French classics like escargots and Bourguignon executed at a high level
- Pricing can surprise, especially wines and bar snacks
- Limited vegetarian and minimal vegan options
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- table_side_steak_tartare
- basement_wine_bar_with_biodynamic_focus
- garden-sourced_produce
What People Love
- The theater of tartare mixed to taste
- Hearty, deeply flavored braises
- Warm, knowledgeable service
- Desserts that feel special, especially Chocolate Nemesis and creme brulee
Points of Concern
- Pricing feels high to some guests, with wines by the glass often over £10 and snacks like olives perceived as poor value
- A few reports of rushed pacing at busy times
- Isolated food execution slips (overcooked mussels, reheated lamb complaint)
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (not detected here); authenticity reads strong for this venue
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£55-70 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If you like rich starters, choose escargots or crab bisque; for lighter, consider goat cheese en croute with salad
- Carnivores should target Bourguignon or ribeye; seafood fans look for lemon sole or plaice when listed
- Vegetarians: omelette main plus sides (salad, garlic vegetables) form a satisfying set
Perfect For
- Date night with wine pairings
- Celebratory dinner centered on French classics
- Food lovers seeking table-side experiences
- Out-of-towners looking for a memorable Edinburgh bistro
Location Insights
Area: Central Edinburgh New Town corridor with independent shops, bars, and bistros; appeals to diners seeking quality and wine-focused evenings.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady foot traffic typical of New Town; no specific safety incidents in reviews.
Nearby: Near city-centre hotels, bars, and cultural attractions; basement wine bar extends the experience.
New TownNew Town is characterized by its Georgian architecture and a lively dining scene that ranges from upscale restaurants to trendy cafes and bars. The area attracts a mix of business people, tourists exploring the city, and locals enjoying a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a variety of international cuisines.
BroughtonBroughton is a vibrant micro-neighborhood within New Town known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. It has a friendly, community-oriented vibe with a growing reputation for innovative dining and a relaxed social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday17:30–20:30
Thursday17:30–20:30
Friday12:00–14:00, 17:30–20:30
Saturday12:00–14:00, 17:30–20:30
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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