Reviews
Disappointing, given what it could be
Reviewed on
The Buckstone at Braid Hills was a dependable and pleasant local bistro and, from recollection, didn't survive post-COVID. Since then it has been unused and deteriorating until last year, I think, when it had a soft re-opening. We were anticipating a good atmosphere and good food for breakfast, but we found neither. What was once a decent and welcoming caffe / bistro / bar, with quality furniture and fittings now is a cold, unattractive interior with outside terrace, unused when we went. Someone decided that a 'motoring' theme was a good idea and there are various illuminated garage signs which have no real purpose or meaning. The refresh appears to amount to a poor coat of paint, visible at the edge of the bench seating and little more. The majority of the double glazed windows have blown units, running with condensation and unsightly. The single member of staff who helped us was pleasant and friendly, apologising for the delayed rolls and coffees. Neither food nor drinks were of any particular quality, with the fillings being lukewarm at best and the cappuccini dispensed from a standard non-barista machine.
We can understand that the hotel does not want to cut its own throat with an outlet which rivals the offerings in the main building, but as we experienced there is no chance of that happening. Come on, this is a well located building in both a residential neighbourhood, between two significant roads into Edinburgh and with easy car parking; it is also well located to attract walkers from the Braids, for example. It needs some sensible thought on its future and a decision to spend some decent money on necessary improvements. At present it is unattractive and unable to compete with the closest competitors - and they are some distance away.
Buckstone Cafe not great
Reviewed on
The cafe was cold, so we had to keep our coats on. Coffee was served in mugs and not very hot. Nice crispy rolls, but bacon looked undercooked, though it tasted fine.
On a positive note the waitress was lovely and we were not rushed in any way, so we could have a nice leisurely chat.
Great hotel in lovely morningside
Reviewed on
We love this hotel . Ideal for our walk into Morningside and onto to the centre of Edinburgh . Lovely clean hotel with good breakfasts . It’s perfect for the bus to the theatres . No 11 right outside the hotel
Lots of bacon.Lovely female staff.
Reviewed on
Two bacon rolls and plenty of bacon.Only problem was that the coffee was too small and was not offered to upgrade.Which I would have done if I had been told.
Nice family, secluded area with games for kids.
Comfortable and tasty
Reviewed on
Good value
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Lovely place to sit and enjoy a coffee with a view. Staff very helpful & friendly.
It was okay
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Not much atmosphere, cake was nice but coffee not great. Waitress was pleasant. Probably won’t go back.
Good value
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Friendly member of staff
It was fine but very empty. Coffee very nice and the member of staff very pleasant.
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The cake hade been in the fridge and was a bit stodgy.
Excellent.
Reviewed on
Excellent service, food and surroundings. Will be back.