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Madras Metro CafeB+Worth Trying

Name: Madras Metro Cafe
Address: 14-14a Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

14-14a Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH · Indian restaurant, Indian takeaway, South Indian restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (615 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

A casual South Indian spot with standout dosas, uthappam and filter coffee at moderate prices, but consistency and hygiene vary meaningfully, so choose peak dishes and times.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Madras Metro Cafe delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by exceptional dosas, uthappam, and regional curries that draw devoted repeat visitors. However, variable execution across visits and occasional housekeeping lapses prevent a higher grade. The moderate pricing and welcoming atmosphere make it worth visiting for core staples, though consistency concerns suggest choosing peak menu items and earlier dining times.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels casual and welcoming, a no-frills space where dosa griddles hum and the smell of curry leaves drifts from the kitchen. Service skews warm if a bit stretched, and one diner put it simply: "We walked across town for dosa and it was worth it." There is plenty of affection here, though a few guests noted housekeeping lapses and waits during busy spells. The cooking leans classic South Indian with a few Indo‑Chinese detours: crisp dosas, comforting idli, and lively curries like Goan fish or eggplant that regulars rave about. The culinary approach feels elevated traditional (innovation level 5.7): recognizable staples executed with regional personality rather than high-wire technique. If you focus on dosas, uthappam, and filter coffee, you are likely to leave happy; street‑food items like vada pav are more hit‑or‑miss. For families, the menu is kid-friendly by nature—plain dosa, idli, parotta, and mild curries are easy wins, and several reviews mention kids enjoying them. There is no explicit kids menu, but portionable dishes make sharing simple. Do note occasional inconsistencies in chutney freshness and pacing; choose peak staples for the little ones and consider earlier dining times.

At a Glance

Dosas, uthappam, and several regional curries draw consistent praise
Prices are moderate with good value for staple dishes
Cleanliness and hygiene vary, especially near restrooms
Service pacing and order sequencing can falter when busy
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

broad_south_indian_menu_with_regional_specials
strong_filter_coffee_tradition
wide_vegetarian_selection
indo_chinese_favorites_alongside_classics

What People Love

Crisp dosa with lively chutneys and sambar
Comforting filter coffee to end the meal
Punchy regional curries with aromatic curry leaves
A wide range of vegetarian options without fuss
Friendly staff who offer helpful suggestions

Points of Concern

Housekeeping issues cited by multiple guests (greasy floors, messy areas) with occasional reports of feeling unwell afterward
Service delays and dish sequencing problems during rushes; delivery surges can impact dine-in
Quality swings in chutneys, naan texture, and some street-food items like vada pav
Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters compared to mainstream curry houses

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£22-32 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Build a South Indian set: Masala Dosa (£10.50) + Veg Pakora (£4.50) + Filter Coffee (~£3-4)
Seafood path: Fish Tawa Fry (£8.50) to start, then Goan-style fish curry (menu regional curries) with parotta (£9.00 Poori Masala if preferred)

Perfect For

Craving dosas and filter coffee on a casual night
Vegetarian-friendly group looking for variety
Quick lunch near the Meadows and Tollcross
Sharing small plates and regional bites with friends

Location Insights

Area: Mixed residential and student-heavy area near Tollcross with casual eateries and cafes; relaxed local vibe.

Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban nuisances but no systemic safety flags in reviews beyond hygiene complaints inside venue.

Nearby: Near the Meadows and Bruntsfield links; cinemas and pubs around Tollcross; convenient for residents and visitors exploring south of Old Town.

West EndThe West End offers a diverse dining environment ranging from casual cafes and gastropubs to upscale restaurants. It has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a blend of locals and visitors enjoying a dynamic social scene, often centered around arts, culture, and nightlife.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday16:00–22:00 Wednesday16:00–22:00 Thursday16:00–22:00 Friday16:00–22:00 Saturday12:00–22:00 Sunday12:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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