Archie Eats

Category: edinburgh

  • Aki—Edinburgh

    Aki—Edinburgh

    Sappari! Where Japanese Flavours Break the Mold.

    Taste – 6.8/10

    Atmosphere – 7.0/10

    Service – 8.4/10

    Value – 7/10 (For dinner definitely)

    179 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DG

    Udon, ramen, katsu—words that echo the soul of Japanese cuisine. In the UK though? I’ll admit, they don’t usually spark much excitement for me. But passing by Aki every morning on my way to uni, curiosity got to me. Tucked between a row of buzzing restaurants, it’s easy to overlook. With its clean, minimalist aesthetic and just a handful of tables, it feels like the kind of place made for quiet catch-ups or a low-key dinner date.

    The place was glowing—not just from the sunlight, but from the waitress beaming like she’d just won the lottery. Somewhere between joyful and mildly unhinged, her energy somehow made the whole space feel weirdly comforting. She also dropped a little culinary gem: Sappari—a Japanese word meaning refreshed or relieved. According to her, it perfectly captures the essence of what Aki aims to serve.

    Oolong tea? Check. Ordered immediately, because nothing pairs better with Japanese food than that light, floral goodness that refreshes the palate without interrupting the delicate flavours. The menu was stacked—donburi, udon, curries, even a few Western twists thrown in. Perfect for picky eaters looking to dip a toe into the world of Japanese cuisine without full commitment (speaking to you—parents with chicken nugget children).

    I went with the Onsen noodle and Katsudon, plus a side of karaage chicken and miso soup. No real rhyme or reason for choosing the Onsen noodles, other than the fact it sounded weird and quirky… and it absolutely delivered. The tenkasu—those crispy batter bits—initially added a satisfying crunch, like Rice Krispies. But the magic faded fast; left to lounge too long, they turned into mushy little sponges. Still, the broth was a winning blend of sweet and salty, rich with soy sauce that hit all the umami notes. And the udon? Perfectly cooked—none of that rubbery Wagamama stuff. It tasted fresh, with just the right amount of bite. Karaage chicken—tender, juicy, and my personal poultry soulmate. The trouble is, most places serve it up the same. Which is great… but also weirdly disappointing when you’re hoping for a twist. Still, paired with a palate-cleansing sip of miso soup, the chicken delivered its full flavour drama. And honestly? I’d happily relive that crispy-soft combo all over again.

    Price-wise, it’s a win—just £15 for dinner, drink included, and zero regrets. If you’re craving something beyond the usual sushi spread and want a laid-back vibe, this place nails it

  • Mosque Kitchen – Edinburgh

    Mosque Kitchen – Edinburgh

    Just another curry house? NO! An authentic middle eastern and Indian curry spot run by the mosque next door!

    Taste – 8.1/10

    Atmosphere -6.7/10

    Service – 7.2/10

    Value – 9/10

    50 Potterrow, Edinburgh EH8 9BT

    Hungover, drained, and peckish. Finding the right craving to cure this decrepit lifestyle can somewhat be challenging. Curry? A slightly bizarre choice for a hangover meal, sure—but it’s got that greasy goodness that somehow works magic on the morning-after blues.

    Enter Mosque Kitchen. I’d heard plenty of buzz about this local legend—famous for serving up budget-friendly curries inspired by flavours from both India and the middle-east, catering to everyone from worshippers fresh out of Salat to die-hard foodies like me!

    First mission: tracking it down. You’d think, “Easy—just look for a Mosque”. But in Edinburgh, nearly every structure could fit the bill. It’s a city of towering stone silhouettes, where even mosques blend into the skyline. Tucked down a quiet lane, next to a car park, it suddenly revealed itself—gleaming unexpectedly in the sunlight, with a cozy little restaurant nestled right beside it.

    Inside felt like stepping into a wine cellar—but not the moody, musky kind. The low, curved ceiling gave it that underground charm, but the bright white walls and gleaming, slightly askew metal tables on either side gave a largely different feel to anything in Edinburgh.

    Laid out in classic canteen style, the food was all showcased in towering metal vats. The setup was refreshingly simple: point at what you fancy, pay up, and dive straight in. Dining solo meant I couldn’t sample the whole spread—tragic, really. So I went with the chicken bhuna and rice, plus a side of vegetable samosas, on the friendly recommendation of the young gent behind the counter. Generous portions? Absolutely. Aesthetic appeal? Let’s just say the three samosas were strategically perched on top like culinary confetti, bravely trying to turn a solid 3/10 into a visual masterpiece. Not the prettiest plate I’ve ever seen, but hey—cheap eats aren’t about the glam. The vegetable samosas didn’t quite hit the mark. Maybe it was the late-afternoon lull, but what I got felt like the soggy leftovers—the kind of scrappy bits you’d find at the bottom of a biscuit tin. Sure, the flavour held up, but overall they were underwhelming. A place like this should deliver consistency from open to close, not just shine when the doors first swing open. Brutal honesty? Maybe. But let’s be real—appetisers are just the opening act. The curry? That’s the headliner. A mountain of fragrant rice drenched in rich, red sauce. Each bite was a symphony: heat that gently soothed the sweetness, spices dancing with intensity, and soft, hearty chunks of marinated chicken melting just by the grit of your tongue. Hands down, it was the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-meal and whisper, “This might be the one.”

    Mosque kitchen definitely lived up to the expectations—£11 in total including a drink is outright crazy in these current times. The portion could easily feed two people and provide fresh, unique flavours you would never get at your local Indian. This is a spot I will definitely be a regular at, being perfect for solo visitors or large groups.

    But now, the real question—the one everyone’s asking: did it cure my hangover? Nope. Not even close. But compared to the greasy despair of a full English that feels like punishment in breakfast form, this was pure redemption on a plate.

  • Toasted – Edinburgh

    Toasted – Edinburgh

    Melted Magic in Every Bite – Edinburgh’s Toastie Game Changer!

    104 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4ES

    Taste – 7.8/10

    Atmosphere – 6.7/10

    Service – 8.8/10

    Value – 7.6/10

    Toasted has been giving me the eye from across the street for months now. Tucked into the lively sprawl of Bruntsfield, elbowing for space among the artisan coffee joints, it has carved out something rare: a genuinely thoughtful coffee and toastie spot. Not just another café with a panini press, but a place with actual intent—something you don’t stumble across often in Edinburgh, no matter how many oat milk flat whites you’ve had.
    With its bold TOASTED signage slapped across the front like it’s shouting over the noise of Bruntsfield, and a line-up of homemade cakes practically winking at you from the window, there’s no confusion about what’s on offer. It’s toasties. It’s coffee. It’s cake. And it’s not pretending to be anything else.
    Family-run by a couple and their daughter, it offers a friendly, relaxed environment to enjoy either a takeaway with a pleasant chat or a cosy sit-down in practically their living room, with tight-nit tables and a massive window beaming with sunlight.

    From humble ‘classic melts’ to the bold and indulgent ‘signature melts’, there’s a toastie for every taste bud. But let’s be real—if you’re ordering a plain ham and cheese, you might as well stay home and let your toaster handle the mediocrity. The real action is in the signature melts: ‘The New Yorker’ brings pastrami and mustard together like a deli daydream; ‘The Spicy Fajita One’ cranks up the heat with jalapeños, chicken, and salsa; ‘The Bruntsfield Stack’ stacks up ham hock and chicken pesto like it’s building a flavour skyscraper; and ‘The Highlander’ goes full Scottish with haggis and peppercorn sauce—because why not? These toasties show the uniqueness and why Toasted has been one of my favourite lunchtime meals.

    Each toastie comes with its own signature dip—think of it as the pizza crust dipping craze, but toastie-style. (Italians would probably disapprove, and honestly, same.) Choose from guacamole, sweet chilli, spicy sauce, classic ketchup, or creamy mayo. If you’re in it for maximum flavour and getting your moneys worth, guacamole’s the real MVP—cool, creamy, and refreshingly perfect with every bite.

    The Bruntsfield Stack takes the crown when it comes to indulgent, greasy satisfaction. You simply can’t beat the rich harmony of freshly made pesto, melty cheese, tender chicken, and savoury pork—it’s the kind of flavour combo that wraps you in warmth, like your favourite jumper on a chilly winter day. And while guacamole does a decent job cutting through the richness, it’s the sweet chilli that really brings the zing, turning each bite into a fiery little celebration.

    For just £8.50, you’re treated to a generously sized toastie absolutely packed with fresh, flavourful ingredients—and that’s before the student discount kicks in. It’s hard to believe something this satisfying comes at such a bargain. From the first bite to the last, every element feels carefully crafted to comfort and fuel you for the day ahead. The experience is nothing short of delightful, leaving you not only full, but feeling like you’ve been wrapped in a warm hug. No downsides. Just great food, great value, and great vibes.

  • Chez Jules

    Chez Jules

    A French Masterpiece? Demonstrating How Quality and Affordability Can Harmonise in a Restaurant – Edinburgh

    Taste – 6.9/10
    Atmosphere – 8.9/10
    Service – 7.3/10
    Value – 10/10

    The chaotic, frantic atmosphere of Chez Jules transports you straight to a bustling Parisian bistro. The tightly squeezed tables, waiters darting back and forth, and the lively shouting across the room all contribute to its authentic charm. If you’re prone to claustrophobia, you might want to give this one a miss, but the unbeatable prices will likely tempt you to brave it.
    Vibrant chalk writing adorns the walls, candles flicker in wine bottles, and checkered tablecloths cover the tables – all that’s missing is a haze of cigarette smoke and waiters in black-and-white striped tops!

    The unmissable lunch deal, a steal at just £15.90, includes a starter, main, and dessert. It kicks off with an amuse-bouche: a salad drizzled in creamy vinaigrette, accompanied by pickles, bread and rosette de Lyon (cured salami). While it doesn’t set the taste buds alight, it serves as a pleasant introduction to the meal.
    For starters, I opted for the French onion soup and goat’s cheese salad. The French onion soup was a delight, especially on a dreary, rain-soaked Scottish day. It brought to mind the cosy charm of a ski lodge, where you’d sip hot chocolate as a blizzard rages outside. The soup was soothing and warm, with the rich tang of caramelised onions making it perfect. The goat’s cheese salad was nothing special. The goat’s cheese salad was quite underwhelming; it felt like something I could easily whip up at home in just 10 minutes, and probably make it taste better.

    The signature dish arrived promptly after the starters: Steak frites! The chargrilled skirt steak was generously drenched in peppercorn sauce and accompanied by a hefty portion of chips. The steak itself was unique, thinly and raggedly cut, with a cooking range that varied from medium-rare to well done. There was no choice in how it was cooked—you simply received what was served.
    The frites were a highlight, cooked to a perfect crispness. The steak had its moments, with some bites being tender and flavorful, while others were disappointingly chewy. The peppercorn sauce was intensely peppery, almost to the point of overpowering the other elements on the plate.

    There’s always room for a little dessert, even though I was already stuffed. I chose the chocolate mousse, which was airy and smooth on the tongue, offering a strong finish to the palate, especially after the spicy peppercorn sauce.

    To address any concerns about the photos, yes, the presentation might look like it was plated by a child. But remember, you’re not dining at a fancy restaurant—you’re getting three courses for £15.90! So don’t let this deter you. The overall experience was superb. Considering the price, there’s little room for complaint about what was served. The atmosphere, certain aspects of the food, and the service were all extremely enjoyable, offering a unique and budget-friendly dining experience.

  • The Banh Mi Craze – Banh Mi Brothers food review

    The Banh Mi Craze – Banh Mi Brothers food review

    A Vietnamese staple. A traveller’s dream. The best sandwich in the world???
    A review of Banh Mi Brothers – Edinburgh

    Taste – 8.2/10
    Atmosphere – 6.2/10
    Service – 8/10
    Value – 9.1/10

    The humble, yet dependable Vietnamese sandwich, the Banh Mi, has triumphantly crossed borders into the Western culinary scene. These sandwiches, crafted by charming Vietnamese ladies at roadside carts, offer a transformative experience that promises to instantly satiate your hunger. This culinary marvel is being passionately recreated by Western food enthusiasts, bringing a slice of Vietnam to our streets.

    Driven by young, affluent adventurers chasing the thrill of their Asian backpacking escapades, Banh Mi shops are sprouting up everywhere. With a bit of parental backing, they’re opening up shops to cater to the Banh Mi craze. Banh Mi Brothers is a perfect example of this trend. They began in their university accommodation kitchen, drawing inspiration from their travels, and have now established themselves in the bustling old town of Edinburgh.

    The hip decor, with mellow R&B spinning on vinyl, gives the place a vibrant, friendly vibe. The staff are affable and attentive, making ordering a breeze. The menu is delightfully simple, offering just a few options – perfect, since you’re here for one thing: the Banh Mi! I opted for the chicken gochujang Banh Mi and the char siu pork Banh Mi, both loaded with all the essential toppings.
    The toppings are crucial in a Banh Mi: pâté, pickled vegetables, chillies, and coriander, all nestled in a crispy petit baguette (because, naturally, the West had to leave its mark in Vietnam). But the true test of a great Banh Mi is the meat. The chicken was cooked to a tender perfection, glazed flawlessly with gochujang sauce, delivering a tangy, rich flavour that melded beautifully with the creamy pâté. The pork, slow-cooked to juicy tenderness, boasted a char siu flavour – one of my all-time favourites – that turned each bite into a mouth-watering celebration.
    At £6.50, it’s a steal. Maybe not as cheap as in Vietnam, but definitely a bargain by Western standards. They also offer a meal deal: a Banh Mi, a side salad, and a drink for £8.50. Naturally, I went for this, and the mixed bean and vegetable salad was a refreshing twist on simplicity, with a soy dressing adding a salty-sweet kick. The homemade iced tea was a hit too, providing a perfect palate cleanser for the spice.

    Overall, the food was exceptional, offering a unique modern twist with flavours not typically found in a Banh Mi, like gochujang. The only downside is the seating – there aren’t many places to sit, which can make the atmosphere feel a bit soulless, especially when the lunchtime rush of office workers hits. But, given it’s a sandwich bar, I’ll let that slide.

    Despite this, the place is an absolute must-visit! In my humble opinion, the Banh Mi is the best sandwich in the world, and undoubtedly, this spot has the best sandwich in Edinburgh.