Seemor
Maki & RamenB+Worth Trying
37 Leith St, Edinburgh EH1 3AT
· Ramen restaurant, Gluten-free restaurant, Authentic Japanese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (3709 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Crowd-pleasing ramen house with generous vegan and halal options, quick service, and lively vibe, though service consistency and automatic service charge practices draw mixed reactions.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Maki & Ramen delivers solid casual dining with strong food quality highlighted by rich broths and signature bowls, plus impressively fast service in a convenient central location. However, inconsistent execution—particularly in broth depth and seafood doneness—and tight seating comfort prevent it from reaching higher territory. It's a reliable neighborhood go-to for hearty ramen rather than a destination establishment.
Restaurant Summary
Right off St James Quarter, the room feels warm and bustling with a front-row peek at the kitchen that many solo diners love. Bowls land fast, portions are hearty, and several guests call out the friendly, efficient team—though a few visits near closing felt rushed. One diner summed it up: "Big, comforting bowls and quick service—exactly what we needed." The cooking leans elevated comfort over showiness, with Black Garlic Tonkotsu, spicy Hell Ramen, and a curry-based steak tataki bowl defining a classic-with-twists approach. Vegan diners get a genuine selection, not an afterthought, and halal options exist on specific items. When the kitchen is on song the broths are rich and satisfying; occasional off-notes include bland broth or overcooked seafood. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like chicken katsu curry, teriyaki donbur, edamame, and plain cucumber rolls. Portions are generous enough to share. It is casual and lively rather than quiet, and high stools or tight tables may not suit every child; ask for regular seating if available.
At a Glance
- Generous vegan and halal options clearly marked
- Fast kitchen and hearty portions in a central location
- Service-charge practices feel pushy to some guests
- Quality can vary—noodle doneness and seafood execution inconsistent at times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- broad_vegan_ramen_section
- open_kitchen_counter
- central_location_next_to_mall
What People Love
- Rich, comforting broths when the kitchen is on form
- Crispy karaage and well-seasoned Hell Ramen
- Thoughtful vegan ramen lineup
- Quick, walk-in friendly service
Points of Concern
- Optional 10% service charge often pre-added and queried at payment, which some find uncomfortable
- Inconsistent execution reported on seafood and noodle texture
- Tight space and high stools can feel cramped; limited coat hooks
- Review patterns show signs of potential friction around closing time that impacts guest experience
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-38 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Value combo: Edamame (£3.00) + Chicken Tonkotsu (£13.90) + shared mochi if available stays under £25-30 per person before drinks.
- Plant-based route: Vegan Tan Tan (£14.50) plus Inari (£4.50) for a satisfying vegan set.
- Spice lovers: Hell Ramen (£14.50) with extra egg (£1.20) for balance.
Perfect For
- A quick, satisfying bowl between shopping stops
- Casual dinner with friends who want vegan and halal choices
- Solo meal at the counter watching the kitchen
- Spice-seekers after a hearty, warming ramen
Location Insights
Area: Busy central shopping and dining hub next to St James Quarter, popular with visitors and locals seeking quick meals.
Safety: Well-lit, high footfall retail district; generally safe with active evening crowd.
Nearby: Adjacent to St James Quarter mall, hotels, and transport links; queues at peak times noted.
Old TownThe Old Town offers a diverse dining scene ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to contemporary restaurants and casual cafes. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with a strong emphasis on heritage and culture, attracting visitors looking for authentic experiences alongside locals enjoying everyday dining.
SouthsideSouthside is a vibrant sub-area within the Old Town known for its bohemian vibe, affordable eateries, and a mix of traditional and modern dining options. It has a youthful and dynamic atmosphere, popular for casual dining and socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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