Seemor
The Gruff GoatA-Worth Trying
19-20 Teviot Pl, Edinburgh EH1 2QZ
· Bistro, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
· 4.8/5 Google (246 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Lively all-day bistro-cafe near Old Town delivering generous brunches and Mediterranean mezes with warm, personal service and strong value for money.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
The Gruff Goat delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional food quality with generous portions and warm, attentive service that creates genuine hospitality. Reliable execution across repeat visits and a convenient Old Town location support the grade A- standing, though the modest design appeal and occasional service delays during peak hours prevent advancement to grade A territory. A dependable choice for brunch and Mediterranean sharing plates.
Restaurant Summary
Right off the Old Town sights, The Gruff Goat feels cosy and welcoming with a steady hum of students, travelers, and locals. Service skews personal—think birthday desserts and warm check-ins—with one diner sharing, "They made our celebration feel special without being fussy." During festival weeks it can turn lively and bustling, but off-peak it is easygoing and relaxed. The cooking leans bistro-comfort with Mediterranean highlights: mezes for sharing, hearty Scottish breakfasts, and well-seasoned fish mains. It is not showy, just fresh and generous—diners repeatedly note plates that satisfy without straining the wallet. If you like to graze, a hot-and-cold meze spread makes a great centerpiece for small groups. Families are well served: there is a dedicated kids menu at £6.95, plus familiar options like pancakes, pasta, and burgers. Vegetarian and vegan choices are clearly labeled, and staff have accommodated gluten-free needs on request. If you are dining with picky eaters, stick to the breakfast staples or burgers; adventurous meze lovers will also find plenty to enjoy.
At a Glance
- Generous portions and strong value for central location
- Warm, personal service with owner presence
- Broad menu spans brunch classics and Mediterranean mezes
- Can be noisy or slower during busy evenings and festivals
- Occasional restroom cleanliness complaints
What Sets It Apart
- broad-all-day-menu
- generous-portions-value
- owner-led-hospitality
- central-old-town-location
What People Love
- Feeling genuinely looked after by friendly staff
- Fresh, vibrant salads and mezes
- Hearty Scottish breakfasts that keep you full
- Reasonable prices for big plates in a prime location
- Birthday and celebration touches without pretense
Points of Concern
- Service can slow down at peak times; a few guests reported long waits during busy evenings
- One-off complaints about mezze bread quality and a supermarket feel for dips
- Bathroom cleanliness mentioned in a detailed review; management should address this
- A single booking mishap on a very busy night suggests tighter table timing is needed
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Sigara Boregi and Hummus, then share Fillet of Salmon or Sea-Bass
- Value path: Cold Mix Meze + burger to split + dessert
- Families: Kids Menu at £6.95 plus pancakes or mac-friendly pasta like Arrabbiata without chili
Perfect For
- Casual brunch before or after Old Town sightseeing
- Sharing mezes with friends over an unhurried dinner
- Student-friendly meals with discounts
- Family outings where everyone finds something familiar
Location Insights
Area: Historic university-adjacent Old Town strip with steady student, tourist, and local footfall; casual daytime bustle shifting to lively evenings.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic and good lighting; typical festival-time congestion.
Nearby: Near Greyfriars Bobby, Grassmarket, and university buildings; mix of cafes, pubs, and small shops.
Royal MileThe Royal Mile is a bustling stretch famous for its historic buildings, shops, pubs, and restaurants. Dining here ranges from casual eateries catering to tourists to more refined venues serving traditional Scottish cuisine, all set within a lively and often crowded atmosphere.
Teviot RowTeviot Row is closely associated with the University of Edinburgh, featuring student union facilities and a youthful vibe. The dining scene includes affordable cafes, casual dining spots, and pubs popular with students and visitors alike.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–21:00
Tuesday08:00–21:00
Wednesday08:00–21:00
Thursday08:00–21:00
Friday08:00–21:00
Saturday08:00–21:00
Sunday08:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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