A cozy central Edinburgh spot for Ukrainian breakfasts, borscht, dumplings, and cakes, with many guests raving about the warmth and authenticity, though service speed and value can be uneven at busy times.
The Square delivers solid food quality anchored by memorable borscht, syrniki, and fresh-baked cakes, but inconsistent execution on items like sandwiches and occasional overcooking prevent a stronger showing. Warm service and a charming central location make it a reliable breakfast and brunch destination, though uneven attentiveness during busy periods and modest menu expertise keep it from approaching grade A territory.
The Square feels like one of those small city-centre places people stumble into once and then mentally bookmark. Reviews keep circling back to the same image: warm staff, a cozy room, and food that tastes homemade rather than polished-up-for-show. One diner summed it up best by saying the place felt like a little pocket of home in the middle of Edinburgh, which is exactly the sort of vibe this place seems to trade on. Culinarily, it leans into Ukrainian comfort food with a few Scottish and British crowd-pleasers woven in. The best love comes for borscht, dumplings, syrniki, deruny, cakes, and breakfast plates, while the menu itself shows a straightforward, approachable style rather than anything avant-garde. This is the kind of kitchen that wins on hearty flavors, nostalgic desserts, and dishes that feel made to be eaten, not admired from a distance. For families, it looks genuinely workable. The menu has plenty kids would actually eat — omelettes, waffles, French toast, croissants, pancakes, fries-on-the-side breakfasts, and even simple mash and soup options — and one review specifically mentions children happily ordering there. Just note that the food is more comfort-driven than childish-gimmicky, so picky eaters will do best with the breakfast and pastry side of the menu rather than the more traditional Ukrainian dishes.
Area vibe: Georgian, commercial and tourist-friendly district with boutiques and cafés.
Safety: Generally safe with good lighting and steady foot traffic into the evening near main streets.
What's nearby: Close to St. Andrew Square, Princes Street, tram stops, Waverley station and many shops and restaurants.