Seemor
The Black GrapeA-Worth Trying
240 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AB
· Scottish restaurant, Cocktail bar, Small plates restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (423 reviews)
Reservations
Creative Scottish small plates with polished service and excellent drinks on the Royal Mile; superb flavors but small portions and premium pricing mean it shines for grazing and drinks more than a hearty dinner.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
The Black Grape delivers exceptional food quality with bold, well-executed contemporary Scottish small plates that justify its destination status on the Royal Mile. Attentive, knowledgeable service and stylish ambiance elevate the experience, though occasional consistency lapses in seasoning and doneness, combined with small portions and premium pricing, prevent grade A territory. Strong repeat loyalty and recent positive momentum confirm solid neighborhood and visitor appeal.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and stylish without tipping into formality, a spot where attentive staff guide you through a shareable spread and a smart drinks list. One diner summed up the mood: "Plates flowed at a good clip and the wine pairing lifted everything." Set on the Royal Mile, it is equal parts neighborhood hangout and destination. The cooking leans contemporary Scottish with global flourishes: bold flavors, elegant textures, and creative pairings like vadouvan with seabass, black garlic with mushrooms, and truffle accents on beef carpaccio. It suits diners who enjoy chef-driven small plates and discovery; the format shines when you mix a few seafood choices, a game or meat plate, and a veg-forward option, then finish with a not-too-sweet pudding. For families, there is no formal kids menu, but you can assemble a child-friendly selection from chips and potatoes, milk bread with lemon butter, simple salads, and ice cream. Adventurous older kids may enjoy mozzarella, trout crumpet, or a mild small plate, but expect grown-up flavors—spices, pickles, and umami—more than classic comfort dishes.
At a Glance
- Creative Scottish small plates with standout seafood and game
- Engaged service with confident wine and cocktail guidance
- Portions run small and costs add up quickly
- Occasional off nights on seasoning or doneness (scallops, sides)
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Royal Mile location with modern Scottish fusion
- Strong cocktail and wine program
- Small-plates format ideal for grazing
What People Love
- Inventive flavor pairings that still feel grounded
- Knowledgeable staff who guide the experience
- Well-balanced cocktails and a curated wine list
- Signature raw and seafood plates that feel special
Points of Concern
- Small plates can feel tiny relative to price; ordering multiple dishes is necessary for a full meal
- A few reports of overcooked seafood or heavy flavors on isolated visits
- Service pace can be brisk, with plates arriving quickly
- Review patterns show polarized views on value; some guests leave hungry despite high spend
- Creative/fusion menu may challenge conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£45-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with oysters or carpaccio, add a seafood plate (seabass or scallops), one meat or game (venison or steak), a veg plate, and share chips or potatoes; finish with burnt orange tart or affogato.
Perfect For
- Grazing over cocktails and wine before a show
- Date night with shared plates
- Solo culinary exploring at the bar or a small table
- Visitors seeking a modern take on Scottish ingredients
Location Insights
Area: Historic, high-footfall tourist corridor with a mix of heritage sites, boutique shops, and destination dining; draws both visitors and locals for special nights out.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy into the evening due to tourism; typical central-city pickpocket awareness advised.
Nearby: Close to Holyrood Palace and Scottish Parliament, near galleries and hotels; lively pre/post-theatre and festival seasons.
CanongateCanongate is a lively part of Edinburgh's Old Town, blending historic charm with modern amenities. The dining scene includes traditional Scottish pubs, casual eateries, and some upscale restaurants, catering to a diverse crowd including visitors exploring the Royal Mile and locals enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare running through Canongate, famous for its historic buildings, shops, and eateries. It is bustling with tourists during the day, offering a mix of quick bites, traditional Scottish fare, and souvenir shopping, creating a dynamic and sometimes crowded dining environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–23:30
Tuesday17:00–23:30
Wednesday17:00–23:30
Thursday17:00–23:30
Friday12:00–23:30
Saturday12:00–23:30
Sunday12:00–23:30
Available: Reservations
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