Seemor
Star Chef Edinburgh 星厨B+Worth Trying
87 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5HD
· Chinese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (116 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Authentic-leaning Chinese cooking with two-track menus (British-style lunch deals and a Chinese menu) at fair prices near Haymarket, but expect a plain room and occasional inconsistency.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Star Chef Edinburgh delivers strong authentic Chinese cooking with standout dishes like mapo tofu and yuxiang aubergine, supported by warm, efficient family-run service and excellent value. However, quality varies noticeably between the Chinese and British-style menus, and the plain, functional interior lacks ambiance appeal. A reliable neighborhood favorite rather than a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
A small, family-run spot near Haymarket where the room feels simple and no-frills but plates land fast and hot. Diners praise the team as warm and efficient, with one guest noting, "the owner even came back after hours to help find my retainer." Expect a mix of locals and travelers drawn by fair prices and convenience. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional Chinese with regional cues: think mapo tofu and yuxiang aubergine on the Chinese menu rather than theatrical fusion. Many highlight the authentic menu for deeper flavors, while British-style lunch deals deliver good value comfort. The split menu explains polarized reviews: ask for the Chinese menu if you want bolder, more regional cooking. Families do fine here thanks to fried rice and simple chicken dishes, plus quick service and low prices. If your crew prefers milder food, the British-style offerings are approachable; adventurous teens may enjoy the Chinese menu standouts like aubergine and green beans. No dedicated kids menu is evident, so choose familiar items and share sides.
At a Glance
- Authentic Chinese menu available on request with standout aubergine and tofu dishes
- Excellent value, especially lunch deals around £7 noted by diners
- Friendly, fast, and family-run service near Haymarket station
- Plain, cafe-like interior with bright lighting is not for ambiance seekers
- Two-track menu causes inconsistency; UK-style dishes can taste sweet or simple
What Sets It Apart
- two_track_menus_with_authentic_option
- near_haymarket_transport_hub
- family_run_hospitality
What People Love
- That you can request the Chinese menu for deeper flavors
- Fresh, fast-cooked dishes that arrive hot
- Warm service from the family team
- Portions that feel generous for the price
Points of Concern
- Ambiance is basic and can feel stark to some diners
- Some UK-style dishes skew sweet or gloopy compared to authentic offerings
- Occasional off nights with texture issues (dry meats) and miscommunications on orders
- Isolated safety complaint (plastic in tea) reported but not a common pattern
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£20-30 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a table with one veg main (aubergine £13.80), one protein (ask for crispy spicy chicken from Chinese menu), and a green dish (garlic green beans £13.80) to balance flavors and textures
Perfect For
- Pre-train dinner near Haymarket
- Casual weeknight with friends
- Quick value lunch between meetings
- Takeaway when craving authentic Chinese flavors
Location Insights
Area: Transit-linked mixed commercial strip catering to commuters, office workers, and travelers.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridor near major transport with steady footfall.
Nearby: Steps from Haymarket rail/tram interchange, offices, hotels, and convenience retail.
HaymarketHaymarket is a bustling neighborhood centered around the major transport hub of the same name, making it highly accessible. The dining scene here is diverse, with a range of casual eateries, gastropubs, and contemporary restaurants catering to a mix of commuters, locals, and visitors. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with a good balance of traditional Scottish and international cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–21:00
Friday12:00–21:00
Saturday12:00–21:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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