The Basement in Edinburgh: photos, reviews, menu

About

Top Choice Award

2025 Restaurants

Tucked away on a lively street in Edinburgh, The Basement offers a delightful blend of British and Mexican flavors, making it a prime spot for both foodies and music enthusiasts. This moderately priced venue, with meals ranging from 20 to 30 GBP per person, attracts locals and visitors alike with its impressive Google rating of 4.4. The Basement boasts a warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, enhanced by live music and a friendly, efficient staff.

Whether you're in the mood for some mouthwatering birria tacos, a juicy steak, or just a refreshing cocktail, The Basement promises a top-tier dining experience with an extensive menu of delicious options like nachos, which have been hailed as the best around. With outdoor seating available and a welcoming ambiance for both humans and their furry companions, it's no wonder this place lives up to its reputation as a must-visit in the city. Reservations are suggested to ensure you don't miss out on this delightful haven.

Price

$$$$ 20 - 30 GBP

Meals

Branch, Lunch, Dinner

Cuisines

British, Mexican

Services

Delivery, Reservations available, Outdoor seating, Dine-in, Reservations recommended

Offering

Serving alcohol, Serving desserts, Small plates, Late-night food, Serving cocktails, Serving beer, Serving wine, Serving coffee

Payment

Payment by credit card, Payment by debit card, NFC payment

4.4

based on 1,042 reviews

Google

4.4/5 1,042 reviews

Gary Jones

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

We visited The Basement while on our honeymoon in Edinburgh and it was absolutely brilliant. The food was outstanding, full of flavour and cooked to perfection – and the frozen margaritas were stunning (highly recommend!). The service had a really nice, laid-back vibe but at a perfect pace. The drinks offers were great too, and our server (who honestly looked like Serj from System of a Down 😂) looked after us really well. I don’t normally write reviews, but I felt this place definitely deserved a recommendation. We’ll certainly be back next time we’re in Edinburgh from North Wales.

Stephen Allred

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Great food, the birria tacos were packed with flavor. Loved everything we had. The place had a very cool vibe. Service was excellent!

Dean McDonough

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Can't knock it. Nearly everything is gluten free, they warn about cross contamination and seem really clued up. Food is amazing, more filling than it looks, will be back!

What is the address of The Basement?
The Basement is located at 12a Broughton St, EH1 3RH, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Edinburgh (296 m walk)
- Bus stop Leith Street (Stop JB) (214 m walk)
- Bus stop York Place (95 m walk)
- Bus stop Broughton Street (Stop YK) (17 m walk)
- Bus stop York Place (Stop YJ) (49 m walk)
How is The Basement rated by visitors?
The Basement has an average rating of 4.4 based on 1,042 reviews across platforms such as Google.
What dishes and beverages are served?
The restaurant offers a selection of dishes such as beef, beer, cheese, chicken, chocolate, coffee, draft beer, duck, fish, french fries, ice cream, lamb, meat, pork, bird, along with a variety of drinks.
What is the average price for a meal at The Basement?
The average price for a meal is 20 - 30 GBP (it is cheap - $).