Seemor
Valvona & CrollaBWorth Trying
19 Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AA
· Deli, Cafe, Delivery service
· 4.6/5 Google (1251 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Beloved Italian deli-cafe with a tucked-away dining room serving quality, traditional dishes; food is generally good with standout baked goods and coffee, but service pace, auto-gratuity, and occasional dish misses hold it back.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Valvona & Crolla delivers solid quality as an Edinburgh institution with strong ingredient-led Italian cooking and knowledgeable staff, but inconsistent service pacing and occasional dish misses (crab linguine, tiramisu) prevent higher marks. The historic deli charm and loyal following reflect genuine appeal, though the tucked-away dining room lacks destination-level ambiance. Worth visiting for coffee, baked goods, and classic pastas, with realistic expectations around busy-period service.
Restaurant Summary
Step through shelves of olive oils, tins, and cheeses into a tucked-away dining room where the mood is warm and bustling. Guests talk about friendly guidance at the counters and a sense of history in the air, with one noting, "It feels like a hidden cafe behind a beautiful deli." The overall vibe is that of an Edinburgh institution, though a few diners found pacing uneven at busy times. The cooking leans classic Italian with premium ingredients rather than fireworks, delivering pastas, flatbreads, and fritti that feel produce-led and traditional. Highlights include rich mushroom pastas, mozzarella flatbreads, and a standout polenta cake, while crab linguine and tiramisu draw mixed notes. Expect seasonal menu shifts and prices that reflect quality seafood and charcuterie more than showy technique. Families should find it approachable: kids often gravitate to croissants, bombolini, bacon or frittata rolls, mozzarella flatbread, and polenta chips. There is no explicit kids menu, but the deli-cafe format and several simple, familiar options make it workable for most families; adventurous young eaters will have even more to choose from.
At a Glance
- Historic deli charm with a tucked-away cafe and strong coffee
- Ingredient-led Italian dishes with standout mushroom pasta and polenta cake
- Service can be slow with staggered courses at peak times
- Discretionary 10% service charge is sometimes auto-added
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- historic_italian_deli_institution
- shop_and_dine_under_one_roof
- ingredient_driven_menu_with_scottish_links
What People Love
- That it feels like a living Italian pantry with a cafe in back
- Well-executed traditional pastas and flatbreads
- Knowledgeable staff who guide cheese, wine, and pantry picks
- Coffee and bakery items that start the day right
Points of Concern
- Service pacing can lag and dishes may arrive at different times, especially during busy lunch periods
- Crab linguine and tiramisu get mixed feedback compared to other menu winners
- The 10% service charge is discretionary but sometimes appears on the bill by default
- Pricing is premium; some desserts and select pastas feel expensive for portion size
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£38-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians, consider Verdure Breakfast, ravioli with spinach and ricotta, or mozzarella flatbread; for lighter meals, add polenta chips and a salad.
- Seafood lovers should time visits for peak freshness and ask staff for guidance on crab or lobster dishes.
Perfect For
- A browse-then-brunch date near Edinburgh Playhouse
- Solo coffee and pastry with a side of deli shopping
- Pre-theatre light meal with a glass of Italian wine
- Food lovers seeking premium Italian ingredients to take home
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial strip connecting central Edinburgh to Leith, popular with locals and visitors; lively retail and cafe culture.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during day and evening with continuous footfall.
Nearby: Near Edinburgh Playhouse and the top of Leith Walk; close to Waverley Station; strong pre-theatre and shopping synergy.
New Town EastThis area blends residential living with a lively dining and nightlife scene, featuring a mix of traditional pubs, modern eateries, and boutique cafes. It attracts a diverse crowd including university students from nearby campuses, creative professionals, and visitors exploring the city.
Elm RowElm Row is a quieter street within New Town East, known for its proximity to the University of Edinburgh and a selection of casual dining spots and small bars. The atmosphere is relaxed yet urban, catering to both daytime visitors and evening socializers.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–18:00
Tuesday09:00–18:00
Wednesday09:00–18:00
Thursday09:00–18:00
Friday09:00–18:00
Saturday09:00–18:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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