Outstanding! Great food and excellent service Veggie or not, you'll have a feat meal here read more

Awesome place! Great food and friendly happy staff! Highly recomend this for any veg lookin for a great meal experience in Edinburgh! Price was very reasonable. I had 2 apps, a main, 2 tall tasty brews and an espresso and it was right at £30. read more

David Bann - Vegetarian Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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56-58 St Mary's Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SX Tel: 0131 556 5888 Email: info@davidbann.co.uk http://www.davidbann.com Celebrity chef David Bann's vegetarian restaurant. I didn't know it could be this tasteful to be a veggi. With a lot of dishes to choose from and often cooked by David himself. You really get what you pay for. Real quality. read more

I first went to this place with my girlfriend who unlike me is a vegetarian, and was immediately won over even before i'd tried any of the incredible dishes. Chocolate and goats cheese together in a starter? Its one of the ways they really make the most of incredibly fresh produce to give you an exciting menu. Every time i go it feels like an amazing treat, but because its vegetarian i always come out surprised at how little it cost for the quality of food. Well worth it, almost especially if you've never really thought of vegetables as proper food..! read more

I'm a long suffering veggie, long suffering in the sense that I get really, really fed up of the usually limited range of veggie options available when I eat out (usually being *sigh* veggie burgers, salads, macaroni, or veggie lasagne). So a veggie restaurant got me really excited! And I wasn't disappointed. The menu was really diverse and the food was excellent. The restaurant itself is lovely - a really good place to go for a special occassion. Thoroughly recommend. read more

Food is made to order and quite quick considering this. The staff were friendly and atmosphere relaxed. As vegans my friend and I were happy to see that most items on the menu could be made to fit our requirements. The red pepper risotto was good but my friends cashew pie was far more interesting and on my next visit ill probably order this. Reasonably priced with good vegan options and a nice atmosphere. read more

Loved this place. Had the chocolate chilli pancake and it was beautiful. Menu was interesting and varied. And plenty of vegan choices. Although would've liked more vegan Deseret choices, there was only one and didn't like the sound of it. Great, attentive service. read more

I went here for a meal recently with my non-vegetarian family (one of whom usually hates vegetables of all forms) and they were all suitably impressed. I have to say, the noodle dish was a little bit too spicy, and I had far too much mashed potato with my meal, but otherwise, no complaints! Oh and the desserts were awesome! read more

Oh goodness--- one of the best vegetarian meal I've had. We had a party of 4, and everyone loved their meals. Go early if you don't have reservations. Highly recommend. read more

I am very sad to write this review, honestly I am. I've been looking forward to trying David Bann for months, especially after several Yelpers raved about it. I'm a big meat eater but love a veggie option time and again and an entire restaurant dedicated to vegetarian cuisine- sounds good to me! But man oh man, David Bann really let me down. My office made a lunch reservation for 5 people and I was so excited to come and try out the food that everyone has been raving about. First off, the waitress took us to a table for four, despite the reservation being for five. Then we sat and waited for fifteen minutes for a drink order. My boss finally had to get up and ask if we could order. Then she had to get up again and ask for a refill. We didn't get to order any food until twenty minutes in, and then we waited 35 minutes for the food to come out! If the place were busy I would understand, but there was only two other tables in. When we finally asked about the food we were told that two of the dishes took a long time to prepare, but no one informed us of this when we ordered- we're in for lunch, we don't have the time to wait 35 minutes for food after waiting twenty to order a pitcher of water! The food came out and I had serious order envy. My colleague had a beetroot and blue cheese something that looked and tasted amazing. My veggies and noodles were... underwhelming. They lacked flavour and honestly I could have made it myself. But with only five main dishes on the menu I felt like i had very little options. Basically the lunch was unpleasant. My boss ended up having to get up five times to ask for things: refills, food, the bill. And at 13 pounds for my dish I was very disappointed. I've had better dishes at takeaways for so much cheaper. And the service: I haven't had service that bad at a restaurant in a LONG time. It was so bad I actually wrote in to the restaurant to complain, and I NEVER do that. Seriously, NEVER. I work in the industry and have a lot of patience, but our entire experience was ridiculous. I've been looking forward to David Bunn for so long, but I won't be back. Like I said, I've had so much better food at dozens of other places for much, much cheaper. read more

Fool me once, shame on me, fool me twice.... as the saying goes, thus travels my experience with David Bann. When I stormed out of the restaurant last night, my head was saying Yelp review, 2 stars, but in the cold and calm light of day, it's really a 1 star, as why would I give an additional star for leaving my newly vegan's niece meal in such an angry state? Ultimately this is a tale of why, when you go to a restaurant, you are going in for a package; not only is the food drawing you in, but also the service, the ambience and the enjoyment of your fellow diners - and for this you pay a price; it is not a privilege. DB was at a disadvantage with many of our (large) party being carnivorous, and reluctant at best to visit a vegetarian restaurant, but it did itself very little favour throughout the night. It will be difficult to persuade them to try another now, so thanks for that. I'll separate out my review into two parts and cover off the good first - the food - for which the 1 star is rewarded. DB still suffers from hit and miss dishes - for me, I loved the olive polenta (others thought too salty) and my niece loved the broccoli/tofu fritters; however smoked tofu was too bland and under smoky; hazelnut ravioli welcomed and rejected in turn whilst the soup misfired (a battle between broccoli and mushroom, but the mushroom lost). Mains-wise the koftas were the outright winner of the night, with the coconut, courgette and tomato curry making a stunning accompaniment. Udon noodles looked overcooked and left mainly on the plate, and the adzuki and mushroom bean bake whilst looked good, suffered from undercooked swede and a Tyrolean dumpling that was twice the size it needed to be; stodgy and tasteless at that, bar an overpowering cheese at it's oversized heart. But overall, most enjoyed their meal, and the SR noted his meal was much better than his previous experience here (see previous, lengthy review). Where our night really fell apart was in drinks and service. Hearing other diners, we did not experience this alone. We were seated at 7pm, and saw no-one for quite some time. Luckily there was water at the table, which was consumed and emptied long before our waiter appeared to take our food order. Evidently drinks were forgotten, so we ordered them with our food, and I asked for the water to be replenished. Everything went quiet once more service-wise. My fed-up levels were at Defcon 1 at this point. I pulled another waitress over and drinks appeared quite promptly; clearly idling on the bar. At this point, it was 8 o'clock. Water took another 10 minutes to appear. Eventually, our starters appeared - slowly, with long gaps between plates appearing. Once done, we were back to the long wait. The waiter only showed up when he had to - no checking of enjoyment, or drinks (who needs drinks?) so opportunities were grabbed if he happened to be near our table, which was rare. My temper had reached Defcon 2. Our main meals appeared - well, most of them. Unfortunately for the SR, his didn't (Defcon 3). After the waiter retook his order, with promises of appearance shortly; it turned out it wouldn't, as part of his order had run out (Defcon 4). What was left of his meal appeared long after everyone else finished their dish, even after I tried to pace myself so he wouldn't be eating alone. Dirty plates, still on the table, the bill arrived. I asked to make a complaint before any money was transacted. Time continued to trundle on before the manager appeared and tried to claim that the SR meal was not overlooked, but I think I won that argument. Justification for slow service was being too busy and understaffed, but I'll be honest, that was the restaurants problem, it shouldn't have been ours. Fortunately, we did reach an agreement removing the SRs meal, service and 10%. The bill was then returned. But then, so did the waiter. Now, perhaps it was a language barrier, but unfortunately, when a diner (at Defcon 4) is repeatedly told by a waiter to not be angry, that I still got my food and was still served, there was only one way this was going to go and despite my request for the waiter to stop talking (which went along the lines of 'back off, sir'), he didn't. Defcon 5 was finally reached. At that point the manager was back, and apologising for his team's behaviour. The bill, still unpaid, on the table. In fact, no one came back to take the bill. Our party having left, I walked my mother (the bill payer) to the bar to try to finish this awful night once and for all, where not only were we not acknowledged, it took all of my will power not just to walk out there, right there, right then, but my mother doesn't walk that quickly. An unmitigated disaster for which the food did not repair the damage service had done, and DB is forever crossed off this diner's menu. Avoid. read more

Great vegetarian food! All the dishes sounded so interesting with interesting ingredients and flavors. Tried the tartlet starter, chili pancake, and koftas and loved them all! My only complaint is that the restaurant temperature was a bit cold overall and I had to keep my coat on inside. read more

Eating with a vegetarian daughter is remarkably easy in Scotland. Every restaurant we looked at had clearly marked vegetarian and vegan options, and all servers were knowledgeable about the provenance of the stock that made the soup and happy to accommodate us. And that is apart from the plentiful Indian restaurants which have extensive vegetarian options. So, exclusively vegetarian restaurants are not as important in Edinburgh as they might be elsewhere. David Bann's menu is interesting and eclectic, and the food was pretty good, but I wasn't bowled over by my risotto or goat cheese and tomato tart. My husband's mushroom strudel was better. read more

I went there with my girlfriend. im not a vegetarian but she is so she at least has more experience of these dishes. However we both thought the food was bad. The noodles as part of my main were over cooked so had a really sloppy consistency. As were the vegetables on the plate. It was like a ready-meal, a gloop where every component tastes the same and is the same texture. The tofu was gelatinous and infused with an overblown smoky flavour that made it a job to eat. My Girlfriend's main was also pretty bland, with an unnecessary coating of spice to hide the overall lack of flavour. It was quite expensive too and the Bulgarian wine was ok but pricey. Service was friendly so we did tip but wont be back. read more

After a full afternoon at the Edinburgh Castle we needed a place to relax and have a great meal. David Bann met all the marks. Entering we were welcomed and led to a table in the middle of a bright, modern dining room. The service was good and attentive without being intrusive. From the beer selection to the food it was wonderful. Try the heather beer taken from a 4000 year old receipe. It was difficult to make choices from the starters and entrees but we had the polenta with roasted veggies and pesto except for the bland cheese all the parts of the dish came together. Our entree was likewise impressive with the spicy kafta (croquette) and the sweet plums a perfect compliment to each other. Finally the three ice cream dessert was rich and refreshing. After our experience we were ready to see more of Edinburgh. read more

A bit overpriced. Crepe entree was flavorless. Good beer selection and desserts looked yummy. We didn't stay for dessert because service was poor (though it was busy because of the festival so they might just have been a bit understaffed). read more

This was an excellent restaurant. The hubs and I had a great meal here. Everything we tried was fantastic, portions were a good size and there was a great selection. Usually one or two things draw the eye but on this menu, everything sounded really good. I ate here back in February and I wish I could remember what I ate-I think it was a blue cheese and tomato tart..it was so good. Would definitely return if we are ever back in Edinburgh. read more

In an unimaginative interior this overpriced food was disappointing: Shepherds pie, is a tasteless lentil stew with spoon of plain mash, dolloped on top. Thai fritters are bland, soggy lumps with bananas on top. The Stir fry is limp noodles, peas, a few strips of Pak Choy swimming in in a nasty thick salty gravy, topped with tofu resembling like singed memory foam. The worst vegetarian food I have eaten for some time -and there is stiff competition in most country Pubs. Go to wagamama for a decent stir fry and inspiration for veggie/vegan treats. Chris Duggan read more

Went to this vegetarian restaurant with a group. Friendly staff and good interior. The menu was a good variety of choices and a good wine list with a multiple per glass options. Restaurant was full when we left which is always a good sign. read more

Fantastic menu for non-meat eaters! Lots of wonderful sounding choices. Tough to choose, but what we chose was excellent. Nice ambiance and great service. A real treat! Lovely cocktails, too! read more

This was recommended as an excellent vegetarian restaurant and it didn't disappoint. The food was excellent, I had the kofta and my mom had the risotto, and the staff were very friendly. We went a bit early on a Thursday evening and were quickly seated without a reservation. read more

Hmm. I'm not a vegetarian, but on occasion (jn any restaurant, not just vegetarian ones) I will have the none meat option just for a change. So, slightly pathetically, I was looking forward to a meal at David Bann's with some vegetarian friends of mine. The restaurant itself is fine - nothing special, but pleasant enough. The food looks and smells amazing when you see it being given to other customers, however, the menu just doesnt make anything sound appatising at all - in the end, one I had told the waiter several times I wasnt ready to order because nothing grabbed my attention, I went for some mushroon something or other, and , not suprisingly, I wasnt impressed. My vege friends love this polace, possibly because they feel like they have to - but I wasnt impressed. read more

We went to vegetarian restaurant David Bann for dinner, which reminded me of Mildreds back in London. Viv and Ross had the beetroot, bramley apple and Dunsyre blue cheese mousse. It sounded rather interesting although I have to admit that I was not quite a fan of it. I could probably have it as a small starter but not quite as a main meal. I ordered the safer option of the Risotto of asparagus, celery and lemon. Nice and creamy, although it could have done with a bit more seasoning. For dessert we ordered the Assiette of desserts for 2 to share (or 3!) which consisted of vanilla and whisky pannacotta, homemade chocolates filled with sambuca, coffee and white chocolate, hot apple, cinnamon and calvados tart, with raspberry ice cream and pineapple sorbet. It is not that big a portion as it sounds, but at least you get to try all the different desserts. My favourite amongst them was the tart which was nice and warm and went well with the cold ice cream. The pannacotta was also pretty good. I would probably have to try more dishes next time to have a better opinion on the restaurant as a whole, but it seems like a pretty decent vegetarian restaurant option. It looked like it was almost fully booked for dinner, so I would recommend making a reservation, especially during the weekend. http://dancing-in-high-heels.blogspot.co.uk/ read more

Wide ranging menu with choices that should appeal not just to vegetarians but all members of your party - great location, hip atmosphere, and, when I was there at least, pleasant staff. Food was honestly made and tasty...if you're hungry and on a budget, get the huge bowlof soup. Fresh squeezed OJ available if you're craving a dose of vitamin C. If you're veg, this is worth seeking out and was recommended by a local who claims it's a much better place to go than Henderson's. read more

Creative and tasty food. Interesting beer list. Much prefer David Bann to Henderson's. This place and the potato shop on Cockburn are my two 'go to' spots for a nice vegan meal in Edinburgh. read more

Oh my - this place is great! Really imaginative with the menu. A lot of even specialist veggie food can taste the same with the flavours just mixing together, but this food is something else! read more

It was a few years ago I went there but it is still fresh in my mind the food was wonderfull and the whisky based pudding particularly delicious read more

Love this place, great food, great service, and everything made fresh- you ask for alterations to dishes and they'll happily do it, a rarity in city restaurants these days, I was pretty impressed. read more

This place is a gem, i wish we had a branch here in California. I never imagined that the best vegetarian food, i would have ever had would be in Scotland! We ordered a split pea soup, and 2 main entrees here. Each of the 3 things was exceptionally well. The innovation behind concocting these dishes is commendable. I ordered a dish which had crepes stuffed with spiced beans, tomatoes and potatoes, along with chocolate sauce, cream and guacamole. It was mindblowing. The other main course dish was brocolli & bean jasmine rice along with Koftas made in coconut gravy. That was equally impressive. A must place for anyone visiting Edinburgh. read more

Fantastic. Like so many reviewers, We're used to getting one or two veg options at a restaurant of this caliber. The variety was just great! Service is helpful while not intrusive. Apps are stunning... Onion tart and smoked mushroom ravioli stood out. Entrées of mushroom strudel, lentil pancake, and adzuki bean & cashew pie also impressed. Price was appropriate to value. Hope to be back soon! read more

Outstanding! Nevet thought that vegetarian food coulis be so delicious! Only advice: GO THERE and TRY IT!!

This place just goes to show that vegetarian food can be both tasty and healthy. The decor is stylish, the staff very friendly and I didn't find it overpriced, I think the quality of the food justifies it. I had the smoked tofu when I was there and I've never tasted better since, definitely a place to go back to but booking is a must as it's very popular. read more

Being a meat eater this is never my first choice, but we have a few Vegan friends that we often come with and the food is always delicious and I never leave feeling unsatisfied. The best Veggie/Vegan restaurant I have been to in Edinburgh. read more

My fiancee and I like to try all the vegan restaurants in the UK that we can. We had just got engaged that morning in Edinburgh, and wanted to celebrate with a really nice meal. To be fair, David Bann has an excellent atmosphere in there. The servers are kind and the place is very beautiful. The prices are around £10-14 which is pretty cheap for a nice place so no complaints there. However, there were little to no options on the vegan front to begin with. And both dishes we got were bad to a point where when the server came to pick up our plates, they looked relatively full still. There are many other wonderful vegan places in Edinburgh. We went to the Caffeine Drip the next morning and had insanely good eats. Try other places first before giving David Bann a go. read more

Outstanding! Stumbled on this gem looking for a late lunch. The Polenta with roasted veggies, pesto and goat cheese was amazing. Prices very reasonable. read more

I really hate to rain on the parade of this nice and popular restaurant. And there are definitely some very good points - like a very pleasant decor and an immaculate service. But the food .. oh dear !(And I don't mean the fact that it's vegetarian.) Probably because cooked vegetarian food is deemed not very attractive looking, everything but everything comes rolled in a pancake which makes the food both stodgy and soggy. As for flavour - if you've never tasted either coriander or cumin, you'll probably find the dishes intriguing. If you know them, however, the totally overbearing reliance on both of them will soon make you unable to eat yet another forkful. read more

REally good vegetarian food. Even though I eat meat I'm always happy to go here as the food is great. Also the atmosphere is classy rather than the cheap and cheerful ambiance that you often get in vegetarian joint. Also they clearly have a cheese-loving chef, which is always a bonus. read more

A very nice restaurant which serves delcious food (even those who only like veg as a side to meat would have to agree). I had a particularly delicious pudding - but don't read this go an eat for yourself! read more

I'm slightly surpirised by the level of praise this place is getting, perhaps it's because Edinburgh has very few vegetarian restaurants. That said, this place has a really good atmosphere and decor and the staff are friendly if a tad slow. The food is of a reasonably high standard and clearly a lot of thought has gone into the dishes. My criticism is mainly that the food lacks flavour to the point of sometimes being bland; a distinct lack of depth of flavour or heat in their curries for instance. It strikes me that this is a slight throwback to the vegetarian=health food mentality of the 70's and 80's. I still enjoy going here but if you've ever been to Cafe Paradiso in Cork or Terre a Terre in Brighton, this place seems a long way behind. read more

I've been going to Banns for quite a few years - I liked it best when it used to be on Hunter Square and was less upmarket than it is now - used to have a great relaxed, boho feel to it that has gone in the new venue. Always had great meals at Hunter Square, but our experiences at St Marys St have been mixed - once I chose items that sounded great on the menu but were pretty awful on the plate, I'm afraid. We have also found the service to be very slow, even when the place has been really quiet. We live a long way from Edinburgh and only get to go once or twice a year - Banns used to be a dead cert for us to visit, but the last time we just couldn't be bothered to go - our experiences have been so variable in the new place. Maybe we've just been unlucky, but to our minds there are better veggie places to eat in Edinburgh (Kalpna, Black Bo, Hendersons etc). read more