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. read more

Hemma - Perfect sweet potato wedges! - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

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!! read more

Hemma - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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. read more

Hemma - Cheers - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Last Sunday I visited Hemma with a friend. We wanted to play a few board games and Hemma had big enough tables to accommodate us. While waiting for him, I sat outside and I enjoyed the sun, a coffee and the free Wifi. Bliss. I always find Hemma buzzing and especially when the weather is sunny it creates a very pleasant atmosphere in and around the bar. Being surrounded by all glass Windows you may think this will get very warm inside, but it was nice and cool. We set up our games and ordered some lunch. I have to say that I am massively impressed with the food on offer (brunch, lunch & dinner) and the size you get for the price you pay. The Croque Monsiour with egg was big enough for two, though my friend did manage to eat it all by himself :o) I like the skinny crispy fries they serve, those are my favourite (In Scotland you usually get the chunky chips) and are difficult to get outside of a certain burger chain. They have a very friendly and efficient table and counter service, which encourages people to order a little more 'since you asked so nice'. I enjoy coming here as you have happy people from all around Edinburgh and they allow dogs too! read more

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. https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g186525-d3206084-r530969166-Hemma-Edinburgh_Scotland.html# read more

Hemma - Avocado and Pea Toast! - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Rustic food but nothing special. Plain environment. Great place to drink after work especially when there is a bank and tech company right opposite. Tourist frequent this place also as it is near the royal mile and queen's gallery read more

Hemma - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Nice food, nice staff, nice ambience. I come here because of a monthly meet up and it's a good place to be. Because of the time, it's handy to order dinner whilst doing some stitches and having a banter with the rest of the group. I had a burger with add ons of bacon and blue cheese. It was good and the bun was good too. It also came with slaw which was good but difficult to get and stay on the plate and skinny fries. i asked for mayo on the side and no problem, as it was there in secs. This is my second trip to Hemma and both times staff have been friendly and food good. There is no bother settling up you're part of the bill separately either. read more

Hemma - beef burger with blue cheese, bacon, hemma's slaw and skinny fries! - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

What can I say? Hemma is where the heart is, and I think I left mine there! I read through some of the other reviews here before we plumped for Hemma on the strength of its being so near to my current flat (and I've been meaning to head there for ages) and I was a little tentative since the response seems so mixed. But all I can talk about personally is the experience that we ourselves had - and that experience was "WOW!" I came here for an impromptu lunch with my parents and all three of us got completely swept off our feet by the loveliness. Their little manifesto on the front page of the drinks menu sums up the unique feel of this place; it's cheery, quirky, it's friendly and good-natured, and I love it. The food is fab value at just under a tenner for a decent main, and especially for the giant portions we got. I ordered the spaghetti with garlic chicken (£8.50) and the mountain of deliciousness that arrived was almost too much for me to finish, but equally, too good to leave. My parents were both equally thrilled with their meals - club sandwich for Dad, beef burger for Mum - and having nicked a couple of their seasoned fries, I can see why. I don't think I've ever encountered those fries' equal. Despite the somewhat intimidating and angular exterior, the decor within is homely enough to easily justify the name "Hemma", being comfy and mismatched, and the windows (which we at first glance had thought were some kind of chic stained-glass mosaic) are actually creatively decorated with slides. The thing I got most excited about was the awesome drinks menu; every single one of the impressive range of cocktails on offer is not only delicious-sounding but also wittily described, and for the meagre sum of £4, water-voles like me can order a custom mocktail instead. I can't wait to go back and try this one evening. Yep, they've definitely taken my heart hostage, and I've got full-blown Stockholm syndrome. read more

See all

I love a good Saturday or Sunday brunch so I was excited to check this spot out when Jenny L. organised a Yelp brunch event. I checked out the menu online and it looked pretty good. I was starving by the time I met everyone and quickly enjoy my americano. I like how they put cucumbers in the water opposed to lemons or limes. I think it's much more refreshing this way. We were a pretty big group -12 or 13 people so I knew our order was going to take a while. I opted for the 'Hemma Brunch' and added smoked trout. As everyone received their meals I sat anxiously waiting. In my mind I kept hoping that they didn't forget my order but unfortunately they did! However, it was not the end of the world. The server said it would be a few more minutes and said he would take my meal off the bill. It was a sunny day and I was with great company so there could have been worse things! The server was correct, a few minutes later I was chowing down on my meal like everyone else. My brunch consisted of a huge (half the size of a plate) slice of olive bread with creamy + buttery scrambled eggs, smoked trout, button mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. It was really big. I had doubts that I wouldn't be able to finish it but I persevered. (Note: When I doubt that I am going to finish something it must be huge - I can eat a lot!) It was great. I'm also not a huge tomato fan but I can say they were very sweet. The salads that various other people ordered at the table were ginormous and looked really healthy. I'd definitely want to try them out next time. I think the location is great for a late lunch after climbing Arthur's Seat or I'd recommend this play to tourists after checking out Parliament or Holyrood Palace. I'll be back to try other things on the menu (the ribs!!!) read more

Hemma - "Hemma brunch with smoked trout" - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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! read more

Hemma - Big beer - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

From the makers of Sofi's, Boda Bar and Joseph Pearce... Sweden proudly brings to you (drum roll).... Hemma!! Okay so the sign needs some work, but this new incarnation of the Tun's bar levels is definitely worth a look. And I imagine my dukedom of Holyrood 9A might be in danger with Hemma opening no more than 40 yards from my work...! Layout is identical to the old Tun, but the Swedish gurus behind this infamous chain have added their homely touches to the place. Rugs and teapots have been introduced alongside vintage sofas and fabric light shades. In honesty though, it's comfortable, but it's like putting an old antique wardrobe in the middle of Cargo Bar...! Doesn't quite look right in this modern building. Prices are a bit steep for the out-of-the-way location (£3.70 for a Jack and coke) but I do appreciate the free prosecco and canapés they provided for their official opening night. Boiled eggs with caviar and anchovies. Stinky yet tasty! For me the decision to shun 9A now depends on the menu. Watch this space... read more

See all

spacious and with a distinctive and delicious Swedish menu. Joker I.P.A., Williams Draft and Sam Adams on the tap. And dogs allowed. read more

I love Hemma because it is light, sunny and quirky inside. It also has great outdoor seating that is tucked back from the road. I first came here for drinks after hiking up Arthur's Seat with a few friends during the day on New Year's Eve. I loved the quirky, vintage-style furniture and the great selection of drinks at this cool Swedish-style bar. They have Blue Moon on tap which made me happy, and also are the only place in Edinburgh that I know of that has Boston-based Sam Adams on tap so it reminds me of home! I also loved that Hemma is surrounded with modern windows and the natural lighting flows in. Others had food and it looked delicious. I have since been back a few other times. Once, on a Saturday night, I wasn't so thrilled with Hemma because it was really loud. On another weekday night it was much better, though, and really relaxed. I like coming to Hemma best during the day, though, particularly when it is warm and sunny so I can sit outside right by Holyrood Park! read more

Hemma - I love the decor - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

Really loud music... Sam Adams is a big plus... Staff was unfriendly. read more

Hemma - 35mm film wall - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Awesome place! We hung out for a couple hours here and enjoyed hummus, salads, and the blueberry mint mule pitcher (recommend recommend recommend) after hiking Arthur's Seat! Couch seating is available. Staff friendly. I really enjoyed the books & art throughout the restaurant. Ambiance is casual- good for lunch or dinner read more

Hemma - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

I think I'm gonna like it here. I'd been to Hemma before for drinks, and hadn't thought much of it. It's the early afternoon cosiness or "gezelligheid" as us Dutchies would call it, where it really shines. All you'd need is a fireplace and you're good to go. The atmosphere is lovely, being equally happy here with a good book or a group of friends, and you don't feel rushed. The food was the real surprise for me. I didn't think it'd be as good as it was, and it really was damn delicious. I had a salad in which the green beans were so crunchy they damned near jumped off the plate, and my girl-dates were happily munching away on their piri piri chicken and croque monsieur, both of which looked gorgeous. I was surprised, I don't know why, I think because I've come to accept below-standard fare, but I really, really, enjoyed the food here. From now on, this is going to be a steady hang out for sure! read more

There's not ONLY one selling point to Hemma, but in my mind there's only one you need to know. THEY. SELL. SALAD. And not parmesan and rocket salad. And not pasta that has bacon and mayo in it. Real. Giant. Leafy green. I don't feel fat today. SALAD. And they have goat cheese on them, or some fish, or some weird swedish thing... but they HAVE SALADS!!! This is the HOLY GRAIL of salad in Edinburgh. read more

Came here for the first time for Scran Salon as its not really local for me. Although Hemma means home in Swedish, it didn't give me that vibe, despite the floral chairs on the upstair mezzanine area. It is all glass and open, hence not feeling cozy and although we were here for a private event, the noise downstairs travels up so it made hearing people speak a bit awkward. So why 4 stars? I had sampled the food and it was great. This was provided as part of the event and was very scandi - salmon, trout, potato salad, veggies with dill, breads and more and it was lovely. Being gluten free, some options were off limits but the trout, meats and cheese were lovely. I only picked at a couple of things as I had eaten before I arrived but what I had was very good. So Hemma isn't very local for me but I will be visiting again and if I have the munchies, I would be happy to eat here. read more

This is a cute little swedish bar is tucked just around the corner from Arthur's seat. It's perfect for a lunch stop before or after your climb to one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks. They host a range of clubs from books to knitting so it's a perfect little place to chill for an hour or two. I visited on a Saturday afternoon for lunch and ordered a veggie platter. The food was really tasty! So was the beer...! Stuffed peppers, bread, oils and humous, just what one needs before tackling the rest of the day sight seeing. I can see myself returning again and again to Hemma as it's one of those places where you feel at home the minute you set foot inside. read more

These guys just get it right. Spacious, friendly and comfortable, Hemma is another stellar attraction from the folks who own Sofi's. I came here for a catch up with pals and enjoyed the table service, huge cups of tea and hodge-podge decor. I had a veggie burger. It was enormous, came with a huge pile of seasoned french fries, pickles on the bun (YUM) and home made coleslaw. Delicious. Also note that the burger patty was home made, none of this frozen breaded nonsense. It was so tasty. The only downside? Bit drafty with the door opening and closing all night. But if you place yourself strategically on a table out of the way of the door you're likely to be cosy and warm for the duration. read more

I was very happy to finally get a chance to visit Hemma for a henny lunch recently. As other reviewers have said - it's a bit airy space and, despite the horrific weather that day, felt quite cozy. Staff were lovely - chatty and attentive- the coffees we had were good and cocktails were *incredibly* good. The food is what let it down for me. I had a chicken and bacon club which had huge chunks of chicken that was so over cooked it was hard to bite through, and bacon that was so fatty I needed to deconstruct the sandwich to pull out most of the fat/bacon. The herby fries were brilliant, though. Some of my friends ordered salads which were huge, but from what I saw looked mostly like *lots* of lettuce and not a lot else. The flip side is that the food is really reasonably priced. I also liked how family friendly it is here - I believe they had a microwave in the corner for mums to be able to heat up food for their kids. I think that's great because kids can be picky and I'm sure it's much easier to just be able to bring your own food than hope the restaurant can prepare something they'll like. So I would definitely come back and drink more mojitos and eat more herby fries, but would view the rest of the menu with caution. read more

I'm Swedish and was excited to 'go home' and enjoy my culture but I didn't really feel 'hemma' at all, except from the good company. The menu wasn't very Swedish at all and rather dull from what I expected, though I suppose they don't aim to give a taste of Sweden at Hemma. I had the Scottish breakfast that was ok but nothing to jump around for. The interior is very airy and open with large windows facing the streets, but I think they should make the place more cosier and intimate to make hemma come true. read more

We all make mistakes, and by the looks of it even the ''Swedish gurus'' can get it very wrong.. I was on my way for coffee on Sunday afternoon, but just looking into Hemma put me off, unfortunately....why? The venue was almost empty, one bloke sitting in the window with a coffee and a paper and only two other tables where occupied..that was it....it should have been packed on a family Sunday... The furniture looked really out of place and there just wasn't enough of it...it looked like a cheap and badly presented '' shabby chique'' furniture sales room... Their ''Scandinavian'' concept may have worked in the old Victorian pubs around Leith Walk,as they are small and their style and little quirky touches seem to go down well with some people , here however it simply does not work.I I don't know why they have taken on this venue ,( probably great financial rewards should it get busy as it's massive I guess ), however in my opinion they may well have bitten off more than they can chew and are way out of their comfort- zone.........time will tell if this place will work, not for me I'm afraid, ....I do however wish them all the best and hope it will evolve.. read more

Everything started off great. Was seated, given a menu and the waitress made some recommendations. I ordered soup and a latte. They were both excellent. Then ordered a 2nd latte and it never came. The waitress never showed up again either. This was a quiet Wednesday afternoon. After an over 20 minute wait, I finally went to the bar, requested my bill, paid and left. read more

The food comes in huge portion. I ordered veggie breakfast and i was shocked at how big the portion is. the slice of bread is almost too thick to bite... the veggie haggis is very tasty! however the latte i ordered is the smallest cup of latte i have ever had. could finish it in half a sip.... read more

Hemma - huge portion of the veggie breakfast - Bars Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Odd. I had exactly the same meal as Robyn, while sitting next to her, and I loved mine and have been telling everyone they must go there! I loved my salad. I think with the strong, oily smoked fish and the potatoes in creme fraiche, it would have been too much to have dressing on the leaves as well. And the egg... well, it was just what I expected, two lovely soft-boiled half pieces of egg! And green breans and ... man, I could eat it all again right now. Hemma is bright and sunny and much more of a 'day' place that the other Swedish bars, I think -- it'd be interesting to see what it's like at night. They do a good bloody mary, too! read more

Originally part of the massive development near Holyrood anticipating the opening of the Scottish Parliament, the original occupants of this space struggled to get enough custom and eventually closed down. A great big glass edifice far from the main drag doesn't seem a likely spot for the latest offering from the Boda family of very Leith-based pubs, but Hemma (Swedish for 'home') really works it. And being a large modern space it manages to escape the biggest flaw its siblings suffer, being too small; this place is huge. If you've been to any of the others - Boda, Sofi's Bar, Victoria and Joseph Pearce's - then you know what to expect. A hint of kitch, never enough to be intrusive, with almost too-cool staff serving better than average selection of tipples. Hemma also has a wide range of food on offer, a similar menu to that in Joseph Pearce's, with a Swedish twist on normal bar food. The setting is cozy, a bland development with just enough personalisation to make it friendly. Being all glass there are often interesting views, whether it's the back of Arthurs Seat, Parliament staff heading for lunch or drunken Friday night visitors to the Pizza Express next door. The bar is on two levels; the upstairs, bookable for events or private parties, has provided me with many evenings of great entertainment. The only problem for me that prevents it from becoming a regular haunt is that, despite being very close to many things, its location makes it feel out of the way and so I never think of going there spontaneously. When I do I'm always glad I did. read more

Awesome Swedish cafe/lounge/bar/space in Edinburgh, right near Holyrood park and close to the Royal Mile. The smoked salmon and dill potato salad was awesome (as were the swedish meatballs, of course). They make a very nice coffee and have really reasonably priced cocktails and a great selection of beers. Really laid-back space, multiple levels of seating, with big windows and tons of natural light, great for working during the day or getting a drink at night. It has the vibe of a community space more than a cafe. And it's pet-friendly! The staff were incredibly friendly. Highly recommend you stop in for a bite if you're in Edinburgh! read more

Hemma means 'at home' in Swedish, however I'm not sure they have really pulled that one off at this establishment! Maybe it's just the wrong name for the bar, but I don't feel homely and cosy here, with it's vast windows and cold finishes. I've yet to warm to Hemma, like others have mentioned here, it doesn't have the same cute and snug feel as the others: Sofie's, Boda, Victoria and JP's. Sure, there's the old country kitchen style table and chairs, but the open space feels cold and slightly souless. Environment aside, the staff are super attentive. They do brunch, lunch, buffet, smörgåsbord platters, dinners and cakes, I've not tried the food, so can not comment. There's 12 draughts on tap and a fine cocktail list. They have lots of events eg networking meetings, promotional events, Vintage pop up shops, of course there's the Yelp knitting night and even a Commando training group called "Do it Commando"! The mezzanine level takes up to 130 people and so could be a great place for party. read more

So we came here with some friends who were visiting. We were all really happy with our dishes. The soups were divine as was the bread. One of us got the salmon sandwich, which was humongous and gorgeous. Really tasty flavours. Overall for the price you get superb quality food and very good large portions. Our friends were very surprised when the bill arrived as they had expected it would be at least double! So the prices are very good for what you get and the location is quite perfect if you are visiting the parliament or dynamic earth or the general vicinity. read more

Hemma is the home of the Yelp knitting club, Stitch n Bitch, and what a fitting home it is. The cosy, comfy seats and sofas are perfect to sit back, drink tea or wine and knit the night away. I haven't eaten here yet but the food I've seen looks amazing. Oh I tell a lie, I did eat some cashew nuts there last night and they were pretty tasty. The staff that I have spoken to have been lovely, really friendly, chilled out and helpful. The icing on the Hemma cake is the chilled out atmosphere. It is a lovely environment to relax in. I particularly like the decorative step ladder wrapped in fairy lights! read more

If there was an award for a feel-good category given to cafés/restaurants it should be called "Hemma" It feels weird to give full five stars to a place but I'd lie if I didn't. Hemma sticks to it's promise (Swedish for "home") and offers you a comfort-zone. Whether you want to come for coffee, a snack, lunch or dinner, or just chill out with a book - you are welcome. The staff are witty, friendly and make you feel like you matter. The music is just the right volume to be heard but not interfering with your conversation. To me and my friends it has become our living room despite the fact that it is bait off-centre. We tend to spend hours there while the quiet café slowly turns into a vibrant restaurants towards the evening, studying or chatting while we are taking a culinary walk through their menu - and we are never disappointed. They make the unofficial best carrot cake in town, by the way. Portions are very generous and you don't feel like you are paying too much for your food. Ok, Hemma is not the most central spot but it is more than worth the walk down Holyrood Road! read more

Thas has become my post work hangout since starting work down this way. From the people that brought you Sophies, Boda etc this is a very chilled placed spaced out over 2 levels. great international beers on tap as well by the bottle its a great place to relax inside or outside. read more

The food at Hemma has definitely earned that extra star! Heading here for a yelp 'brunchy munchy' was a fantastic idea. I may have actually drooled when I saw the menu but I'm mad classy like, so I controlled myself. After much deliberation, over an o.k. cup of tea, I decided on the Hemma Brunch, a slice of olive bloomer bread with lashings of butter, scrambled egg, mushrooms and tomatoes. I opted to throw in the extra pound and added trout (bacon was another option and in retrospect, both would have been epic.) When it arrived it was massive and looked absolutely delicious. It was definitely value for money as the taste was fantastic, I'm a butter fan, and it got me through to dinner no problem! After I had a cappucino which was decent, it's not a 'fancy coffee' place but they did try on a few of the coffees to be a bit artistic! Although my dish was so awesome I tried to recreate it for my breakfast this morning (with bacon this time) I did notice a slight problem with the service. Everyone was lovely so kind and friendly, but perhaps we were too big a group for them to cope with at that time. One dish was forgotten (I admit being extremely guilty as Shona waited for hers!) though it was taken off the bill, at one stage a waitress returned to the table as she couldn't read the waiters handwriting and afterwards it seems Robyn got Kohleens drink! I understand that there is a laid back vibe to a place like Hemma, and that's not something you can create all that easily, but it shouldn't come at the price of smooth service. I wasn't sure after my first visit if I would return to Hemma as it's a bit out of the way for me but after that amazing brunch I'll definitely be back! read more

I have visited this bar twice now over the past 2 weeks and completely love it. Although it is slightly out of the way a bit for me, it is completely worth it. The bar is a great size, so perfect for large group meetups and has a function room upstairs to. Although it is big and from the outside quite industrial, it is lovely and cozy inside due to its mismatched wooden furniture, snuggly sofas and fairy lights everywhere. They have a great selection of cocktails too, although it would take a few visits to work your way through them all! Although I didn't have any food either time, it all looked and smelled delicious with a great selection, so I will be back to try soon. Staff were really friendly too and very helpful. A great find. read more

Cool spot just off royal mile, nice vibe, casual menu, first time here but clearly popular spot. read more

See all

Finally something has gone into the building where The Tun used to be and what could be better than a Swedish themed bar who's sister bars include Boda, Victoria, Sofi's and Joseph Pearce? This has to be a winner if their other bars are anything to go by. This bar is huge with two floors so lots of space and seats dotted about the place. They even have tables and chairs on fake grass outside so you can enjoy the Scottish summer days. The staff are SO friendly and really attentive, regularly making sure that you're OK and enjoying yourself. The owner seems to live there at the moment and is always doing the rounds, chatting to the clientele. Instead of copying their competitors by offering pizzas, burgers, etc they have decided to branch out on another side of the market. Their menus are full of sharing platters, salads, and freshly made sandwiches. Between £5 - £8 the meals are quite a bargain. A pleasant little spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. read more

I have been going there a few times now and always found this place very accomodating, bright, quirky and cozy. You can sit downstairs and upstairs, either on small or large tables or couches. Guess, what I like....:-) They serve craft beers and cider and not the normal commercial stuff you get in other bars and shops. My friend ordered a bailies and I was blown away by the price of £3.20 for hardly anything. Sad! I still enjoy going there for a chat and get together with friends. Next time I will try some food. read more

I struggled over giving Hemma 3 or 4 stars....... so I would prefer to say this place is a 3.5. Not because this place isn't good!? They have a decent selection of beer on tap, cocktails were of a good standard and the food is totally delish!! The Food. Seriously. Huuuuge yummy salads. I had roasted butternut squash, blue cheese, chorizo and pine nut salad. And is was maahoooosive and utterly tasty. BUT Hemma is just so lacking any of the character that is typical of the Boda Bars. It's not cosy or welcoming like Sofi's or Joseph Pearce!? It's quite air-y, contemporary and spacious but not in a way that makes me want to spend the whole night snuggled up in here. They do however have a few seats outside which is a bonus for the few sunny days we get. So I would go here to eat and not hang about. It just missing that certain Je Ne Sais Quoi. read more

I have never been this far down this street before although have been to this end of town via the Canongate. Wow, I felt like I had been missing out when I first walked into Hemma. I immediately became attached to the place: helped by the relaxed vibe, cool music and cosiness. I kept looking around expecting to see an area with rugs, cushions and shisha but it's not that sort of place. After a waitress got over her initial surprised reaction when I said I wanted to order food (I have no idea what happened there), another quickly appeared to take my order and I don't even think I had to wait 10 minutes for my butternut squash and blue cheese salad to be placed in front of me. It was massive and really good! I was actually quite surprised to see such healthy options on the menu after expecting typical grub of burgers, chips and the likes. My sweet tooth couldn't resist the home baking on offer so I had banana cake with a chocolate icing topping - really moist and flavoursome, yum! When it came to paying, I think I had been served by 3 different people throughout the night and was impressed that my bill was ready when I went to the bar and didn't have to figure out who had what - given the service at the start of the evening. It was good of the staff to keep our table cleared throughout the night - they didn't seem bothered by the balls of wool everywhere and I barely noticed them when they were there as I was too absorbed in my knitting (not being rude). I really got into the music that was playing so asked the bar dude what was playing and he kindly wrote it down for me. I'm looking forward to my next Yelp Stitch and Bitch night here. I like Hemma so much I want to knit it a hat! read more