Seemor
Scarpetta EdinburghA-Worth Trying
38 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2LE
· Italian restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (218 reviews)
Reservations
A warmly refurbished, centrally located Italian that delivers crowd-pleasing pizzas and pastas with friendly, often quick service and generous portions, though service consistency and a few execution hiccups keep it just shy of exceptional.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Scarpetta Edinburgh delivers strong food quality anchored by standout carbonara and risotto, supported by friendly, attentive service and convenient George Street location. Execution shows occasional inconsistency in secondary dishes and service reliability, preventing grade A territory, but the combination of generous portions, reasonable value, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a competitive neighborhood favorite that exceeds typical restaurant standards.
Restaurant Summary
In the heart of New Town, Scarpetta feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos, a spruce-up of a long-loved spot where friendly staff keep things moving. One diner put it simply: "Service was on the ball and a dropped fork was swapped in seconds," which sums up the easy-going hospitality many report. A central George Street address brings a mixed crowd of locals and travelers, and most leave content after big pizzas, classic pastas, and a comfortable, cozy setting. The kitchen leans classic Italian with a modern accent: think carbonara done right, rich truffle mushroom risotto, and pizzas that satisfy more than they surprise. A few riffs—'nduja heat, hot honey, and burrata-laden pies—add interest without veering into theatrics. If you are choosing between plates, the carbonara and risotto draw the most consistent praise, while calzone and the occasional starter can be hit-or-miss; overall, it is elevated comfort more than culinary fireworks, ideal for people who want flavor and value in a central location. Families are well served here: pizzas like the Margherita, simple pastas, and even off-menu kid-friendly tweaks (plain pasta with white sauce) make it easy for little diners. Vegetarians have depth across starters, pastas, and pizza; vegans at least have a dedicated pizza and sides, and gluten-free choices exist though guidance varies. Expect generous portions, a welcoming vibe, and the occasional busy-night wobble—bring patience and you will likely leave happy with plates that please.
At a Glance
- Carbonara and mushroom truffle risotto earn consistent praise
- Generous pizza portions and good value for central George Street
- Friendly, generally quick table service with family-welcoming attitude
- Service consistency varies (check-backs, seating location, GF guidance)
- A few execution misses (calzone quality, salt levels, soggy fritters)
What Sets It Apart
- family_owned_continuity
- refurbished_new_town_space
- kid_accommodations_on_request
What People Love
- Carbonara that tastes crafted rather than generic
- Big, shareable pizzas with crisp edges
- Welcoming staff who handle small requests gracefully
- Cozy refurbished space right on George Street
Points of Concern
- Occasional service lapses: slow check-backs, uneven attention, or unclear guidance on gluten-free options (medium frequency)
- Execution bumps: calzone and some starters inconsistently prepared; occasional over-salted or overcooked pasta (low-to-medium frequency)
- Seating by the kitchen door or less desirable tables can diminish ambiance (isolated but notable)
- Review patterns show light solicitation (review cards observed) though overall authenticity remains solid
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£30-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a shared starter like Burrata (£11.00) with a Margherita (£11.95) and a salad (£5.50) for a balanced meal
- Split a rich Truffle Parma (£16.95) and add a bright Panzanella Salad (£6.00) to cut through the richness
Perfect For
- Casual date night with classic Italian comfort
- Family meals where pizza and pasta keep everyone happy
- Pre-event or sightseeing lunch in the city center
- Group dinners that value friendly service over formality
Location Insights
Area: Upmarket New Town corridor with boutiques, bars, and offices; popular with visitors and after-work diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic into evenings.
Nearby: Steps from Princes Street shopping, close to hotels, bars, and transport links; draws both locals and tourists.
New TownThe dining scene in New Town is diverse, featuring a range of upscale 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.
George StreetGeorge Street is a prominent thoroughfare within New Town, known for its concentration of fashionable bars, restaurants, and boutiques. It is a popular destination for after-work socializing and weekend dining, offering a vibrant yet polished environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
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