Seemor
ToscanoA-Worth Trying
165A Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DG
· Northern Italian restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (148 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Excellent Tuscan-style schiacciata sandwiches with generous portions, quick friendly service, and strong value—expect cold, deli-style builds and limited vegan options.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Toscano delivers exceptional bread craftsmanship and ingredient quality paired with warm, knowledgeable counter service and impressive speed—hallmarks of a well-executed neighborhood deli. Reliable execution and outstanding value make it competitive with the area's better casual lunch destinations. The grade reflects strong fundamentals without the distinctive ambiance or broader appeal needed for higher recognition.
Restaurant Summary
On Bruntsfield Place, Toscano hums along as a counter-service deli turning out Tuscan schiacciata that crackles outside and stays tender within. The mood is warm and bustling, lines move fast, and staff are quick with guidance; one diner summed it up simply: "the bread made the whole sandwich sing." Expect a quick, friendly stop more than a linger. The culinary approach leans classic deli craft over flash—prosciutto, burrata, pistachio cream, and nduja folded into balanced combinations rather than fusion experiments. It is ingredient-first cooking (innovation level 4.2): elevated traditional rather than avant-garde, with a truffle special popping up now and then. Go for Chianti or Il Toscano if you want the hits; Prato skews richer and can read salty to some. Families should find it straightforward: simple ham-and-mozzarella choices sit alongside richer builds, the counter is efficient, and portions are easily shareable. There is no kids menu, but items like Firenze or a pared-back order suit younger palates; outdoor picnics on the nearby Links are a bonus for wiggly eaters.
At a Glance
- Superb bread quality and generous fillings
- Excellent value with £10-ish sandwiches and a noted meal deal
- Fast, friendly counter service ideal for lunch
- Limited vegan selection and only a couple of vegetarian core options
- Sandwiches are typically served cold unless requested warmer
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_tuscan_schiacciata
- excellent_bread_texture
- park_picnic_ready
- student_discount_available
What People Love
- That crisp-then-soft schiacciata texture
- Classic Italian fillings that taste imported and fresh
- Portions big enough to split or save for later
- Staff who explain the menu and move the line quickly
Points of Concern
- Some find certain builds salty or rich, especially blue-cheese or mayo-heavy options—ask for guidance if sensitive
- Limited vegan options; vegetarians have a couple of strong picks but not a wide range
- Primarily cold sandwiches; a few guests expected hot and were surprised
- Occasional assembly misses (e.g., missing ingredient) appear rare but frustrating when they occur
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£12-14 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For milder tastes: Firenze (£8.50). For bold: Fivizzano (£10). For nut lovers: San Gimignano with pistachio (£10). Share a £10 sandwich plus £1.50 drink deal for value.
Perfect For
- A quick but satisfying lunch near Bruntsfield Links
- Picnic-friendly takeaway on a sunny day
- Value hunters who want premium ingredients without a premium bill
- Students and locals building a regular sandwich rotation
Location Insights
Area: Leafy, affluent residential high street with a strong cafe culture and daytime footfall from locals and students.
Safety: Generally safe and well-maintained with steady pedestrian traffic during the day and early evening.
Nearby: Near Bruntsfield Links green space; mix of boutiques, cafes, and independent eateries; convenient for picnics.
BruntsfieldBruntsfield is a lively, well-established neighborhood with a strong community feel. It offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, attracting locals who appreciate quality food in a relaxed yet trendy atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–16:00
Tuesday11:00–16:00
Wednesday11:00–16:00
Thursday11:00–16:00
Friday11:00–16:00
Saturday11:00–17:00
Sunday11:00–17:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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