Seemor
VesselAMust Try
73 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1EE
· Bar, Coffee shop, Restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (166 reviews)
Reservations
Stylish New Town bar-restaurant pairing Pilot craft beers with creative small plates and warm hospitality; best for relaxed sharing and drinks rather than classic mains-and-pudding dinners.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Vessel exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional creative small plates and warm, attentive service paired with stylish modern design that creates a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Minor texture variability in proteins and occasional service lapses during peak times prevent higher distinction, but consistent execution, strong local loyalty, and thoughtful hospitality (including dog-friendly touches) position it among Edinburgh's finest casual dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Set on Hanover Street, Vessel feels like a stylish New Town hideout where the staff actually want you to linger. Reviews paint a room that is easy on the eye and never too loud, with servers who guide you through beer and food choices without hovering. One diner summed it up neatly: "cool space with relaxed vibes" and the sort of welcome that extends to dogs with water, treats, and even blankets. The cooking leans contemporary and shareable, a creative small-plates format that plays with flavor rather than theatrics. Think roasted heritage carrots over cashew-miso, whipped feta with smoked honey and chili crisp, and aubergine schnitzel on thyme-lemon hummus. It suits curious eaters who like to graze while sipping Pilot beers or cocktails; steak frites and pork belly please the traditionalists, though a couple of reviews note the onglet can be a touch chewy. Dessert selection can rotate seasonally, so do not expect a classic pudding list every time. Families will find a welcoming, casual atmosphere and some kid-amenable items like fries, ice cream, and the buttermilk chicken. That said, the menu skews adventurous; plant-based options abound but flavors are bold, and there is no dedicated kids menu. For picky eaters, plan to order simply or supplement with sides; for open-minded families, it is an easy, central stop before a show.
At a Glance
- Creative small plates with standout plant-based dishes
- Excellent Pilot beer lineup and thoughtful pairings
- Warm, knowledgeable service with dog-friendly touches
- Occasional slow or end-of-meal inattentive service reported
- Onglet texture can be variable; desserts can be limited seasonally
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Pilot brewery tap focus with curated pairings
- Creative plant-forward small plates
- Dog-friendly hospitality with treats and water
What People Love
- Warm, welcoming staff who guide choices
- Inventive flavors like cashew-miso carrots
- Pilot beers including sours and seasonal pours
- Stylish interior with thoughtful design touches
- Dog-friendly hospitality with real care
Points of Concern
- Occasional service slowdowns or drop-off after mains, leading guests to pay at the bar
- Protein execution can vary (onglet reported chewy by a few)
- Dessert lineup can be minimal in some months
- 12.5% service charge auto-added per one review; check your bill
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£30-44 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a meal with 2 plates per person plus a shared side; include the heritage carrots or whipped feta for balance
- Pair sours or a Paloma-style cocktail with tangy plates like aubergine schnitzel or harissa beans
- For conservative eaters, opt for chicken thigh and fries, then add bread and butter to round it out
Perfect For
- Sharing plates with friends over craft beers
- Casual date night in the city centre
- Pre- or post-theatre snacks and drinks
- Solo unwind at the bar with small plates
Location Insights
Area: Elegant Georgian streets in Edinburgh New Town with a mix of boutiques, offices, and destination bars; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy in evenings; high foot traffic on main streets.
Nearby: Close to Princes Street shopping, George Street bars, and Fringe venues; convenient for pre- and post-theatre drinks.
New TownThe dining scene in New Town is diverse, featuring a range of upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and traditional pubs. The area attracts a mix of business professionals during the day and tourists and locals seeking quality dining experiences in the evening. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, with many establishments offering contemporary Scottish and international cuisine.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday16:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–00:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
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