Hemma

Bit of a belated review this one, given its well over a week ago I was here but busy wee boy all that... Actually been here a few times, but this was my first dining experience, so figured it warranted a follow up. It 's owned by the same guys who run Joseph Pearce, Victoria Boda so has the same choice of nice beers cocktails, and the Swedish themed menu. Only big difference with this one is visually in a big open space in the new bit near Holyrood, it 's all high glass windows and scuffed boho furniture. This being the weekend all our lovely students returned to the capital, it was slightly over run by, making me feel a tad on the haggard old man side in comparison. It is quite close to a fair few halls of residence, so I 'd avoid if you have a similar aversion to our young learners! Onto the food though this may show me up as a bit of a foodie numptie, but I was introduced here to something I never realised existed the Croque Madam!! Essentially a Croque Monsieur with a huge fried egg whalloped on top!! It 's made on nice, thick crusty bread so a big improvements from the soggy slices you usually get lumbered with. Lots of nice cheese and a chunky, thick slice of Canadian ham (not usually a favourite of mine, but worked well here . Stick on their amazing Hasselbaink (typo I realise, but I have a Jimmy Floyd blind spot... potatoes you 're onto a big winner!

Really like the vibe of this place. I know it's big airy at this time of year -draughty) but it's quirky and well, cool. The staff are chatty and helpful, there's a great selection of beers, ciders spirits the food is good too. On my last visit I tried the pea spinach soup as it was recommended by Blythe. I'm glad I did. It was a delish way to pack in some of my five-a-day the fresh dill through it gave it an interesting Scandi twist. The portions are very generous there was a side of lovely fresh bread butter. The upstairs has a cosier feel than the downstairs. There's even baskets of kids toys to keep the little large) kids entertained.

We rented an apartment right off of the Royal Mile, about a 3 minute walk from Hemma. It was highly recommended by the owners for lunch and it was the perfect place for us!! We actually at their twice, once for late lunch and the other for brunch. And both times we had an amazing experience. Their sandwiches were to die for, obviously all freshly made with quality ingredients. I would definitely return here to just grab a coffee and hangout, or to get another full meal. Good place for university students and others alike!!

Hemma is a very atmospheric but strange place. The first two times I came I was unable to get food at all they were just mysteriously not seating people now even though they had obvious empty tables and it was no where near closing time. The third time I had to argue with the staff to sell me a slice of cake, as they claimed the kitchen was closed even though I just wanted cake and it was on their counter. Eventually they gave it to me, but again, confusing. I went this week for the fourth time and was actually served, which was a nice change. It 's a beautiful place to sit and work, with lots of nooks, couches, plants and windows. They have foosball. They play good music. The food is good. The concept is Swedish Living Room which is cute. I tried the big Green Salad with added steak. Very tasty, fresh, good dressing. The steak £4) was a very small portion. I also had their sweet potato fries with spiced aoili yum! Really really good. And the warm chocolate cake... incredible! Like a brownie but superior. It was still a bit slow, and a bit overpriced, but I had a nice time at least. For all my earlier disappointing experiences this time was better. Rating to be revised upwards if future experiences are better.

Despite being a stones throw from the Edinburgh Castle, Hemma feels tucked away and not touristy at all. My friend and I came here for breakfast on a Sunday at 10am and there were lots of free tables. Staff was incredibly friendly and coffee was delicious both americano and lattes. Since Hemma has a hipster vibe to it I decided to try the trendy avocado pea toast with a poached egg (very good what you would excpect) while my partner ordered the Eggs Brando. Do yourself a favor and order the Eggs Brando incredible scrambled eggs with feta, honey and some other magic. [hidden link]