Seemor
PapiiB+Worth Trying
101 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
· Brunch restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
· 4.6/5 Google (1346 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Small, cozy brunch cafe famous for strawberry-bacon waffles and friendly staff; great for waffles and eggs but coffee quality and wait times can be inconsistent.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Papii delivers solid brunch execution anchored by excellent waffle and Eggs Benedict quality, with genuinely warm and welcoming staff that elevates the experience. However, quality varies noticeably across visits—coffee remains inconsistent, drinks occasionally forgotten during rushes—and the cramped room with tight tables creates friction at peak hours. Worth seeking out for the signature waffles and friendly service, but expect waits and accept that this is a casual neighborhood spot rather than a destination brunch destination.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked into New Town, this cafe feels cozy and bustling at peak hours, with staff who are often described as warm and welcoming. Expect a wait at busy times, tight tables, and a menu that keeps people talking—especially the strawberry-and-bacon waffle. One diner summed it up: "A tiny spot with big brunch flavors; worth queueing if you love waffles." The cooking leans classic brunch with a playful twist, not showy or experimental—think fluffy waffles and proper eggs more than culinary fireworks. The waffle program is the star, while Eggs Benedict can swing from excellent to under-seasoned on rare off days. Coffee feedback is mixed: some rave, others find it weak or overly milky, so come for food first and treat coffee as secondary. Families do fine here thanks to friendly service and very approachable dishes. Kids are likely to enjoy strawberry waffles, a breakfast roll, or yogurt with fruit; just note the room is small and strollers may be awkward at rush hour. Vegetarian choices are plentiful, gluten-free options are limited, and one reviewer flagged allergen documentation concerns—ask before ordering.
At a Glance
- Signature strawberry-bacon waffle is a consistent hit
- Friendly, welcoming staff in a cozy central location
- Very small space with queues and tight seating at peak
- Coffee and hot chocolate quality vary; drinks can feel pricey
- Occasional inconsistency with Eggs Benedict and forgotten drinks
What Sets It Apart
- signature_strawberry_bacon_waffle
- central_new_town_location
- cozy_cafe_vibe
What People Love
- The fluffy waffles with crispy bacon and maple
- Genuine, kind service that tries to make things right
- Cozy vibe that feels tucked-away yet central
- Reliable value on the food side, especially waffles and meal deals
Points of Concern
- Small, crowded room can mean waits and tight tables during peak hours
- Coffee and hot chocolate quality is inconsistent, with multiple critical notes
- Eggs Benedict can be small or underwhelming on off days
- Review patterns show occasional pricing surprises on-site (oat milk surcharge, tips requested) compared to the basic £7 menu listings
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£16-22 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Lead with a waffle and share a savory Benedict to balance sweet-salty
- Vegetarians: Eggs Florentine, goat cheese or halloumi sandwiches, and spanakopita are safe picks
- Families: split a waffle and add a yogurt granola for a lighter second plate
Perfect For
- A waffle-focused brunch before shopping on George Street
- Casual breakfast catch-up in central Edinburgh
- Solo mid-morning bite off-peak
- Sweet-salty cravings that need a quick fix
Location Insights
Area: Central Edinburgh New Town with a mix of offices, shopping streets, and destination cafes; daytime footfall heavy, tourist and local mix.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked, well-lit main streets; typical city-center petty-theft caution.
Nearby: Near George Street and Princes Street retail corridors; close to offices, hotels, and transit links, driving brunch demand and queues.
Old TownThe dining scene in Old Town is diverse, ranging from traditional Scottish pubs and casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area is lively, especially during festivals, and offers a blend of historic charm with modern culinary trends. It attracts a mix of visitors and locals looking for authentic and innovative dining experiences.
GrassmarketGrassmarket is a vibrant micro-neighborhood within Old Town, known for its bustling atmosphere, historic pubs, and outdoor seating areas. It is popular for social dining and nightlife, offering a lively and accessible environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday09:00–16:00
Wednesday09:00–16:00
Thursday09:00–16:00
Friday09:00–16:00
Saturday09:00–17:00
Sunday09:00–16:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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