The Basement

Name: The Basement
Address: 12a, 10a Broughton St, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 3RH
Telephone: 0131 557 0097
Price range: £26 to £40
Rating: 4.6

4.6

1071 Reviews

£26 to £40

Mexican

Top Tags:

Do you love tacos, fajitas guacamole and all things Mexican? Come join us underground! We’ve got a masivo collection of tequila and mezcal waiting for you to try. And when it comes to cocktails, there’s plenty on offer but you can’t go wrong with a margarita!

🧒 Under 18s welcome until 8pm with food, last sitting for under 18s is 6pm
🐶 Dog-friendly in our bar & outdoor areas
🏃 Walk-ins welcome
🍹 Bookings for food & drink and just drinks welcome
📅 Contact us directly for bookings of 8 or more

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 8, 2023

8:30 PM

Booked 25 times today

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
£26 to £40
Cuisines
Mexican, Mexican / Southwestern, American
Hours of operation
Mon–Thu 2:00 pm–12:00 am Fri–Sun 12:00 pm–1:00 am
Phone number
0131 557 0097
Website
http://www.basement-bar-edinburgh.co.uk/
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Private party facilities
We have a separate area in the back which can hold up to 15 people.
Private party contact
Reservations: 0131 557 0097

Location
12a, 10a Broughton St, Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH1 3RH
Neighborhood
New Town
Cross street
York Place
Parking details
Street Parking
Public transit
York Place Tram Stop, Edinburgh Bus Route 08. We are around a 10-minute walk from Waverley Train Station and are just around the corner from the Bus Station.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wine

What 1,071 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.5Service
4.6Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Energetic

Loved For

Edinburgh
Great for creative cocktails

1,071 Reviews

OT
OpenTable Diner
Edinburgh
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined 6 days ago
Overall3Food4Service5Ambience2
We had specifically booked a restaurant table, were seated in the bar area which was very very cold, no heating, this was disappointing, definitely spoiled our experience. Food and service were first class.
The BasementResponded today
Hi there! We are sorry to hear that your table wasn't to your liking but we are happy to hear that you enjoyed our food and our service. Your feedback is appreciated. Have a wonderful day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
ED
EveD
Edinburgh
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Food was to die for ! Especially the birria tacos & margaritas are amazing .. service also great and efficient
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Eved, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
New York Area
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 27, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The most incredible Mexican food & service! Our waitress was super friendly & interactive and made the experience even better! Ps. The homemade guacamole at the table just topped it off! The freshest guacamole we’ve ever experienced😍
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Hi Opentable Diner, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for us at The Basement. We're happy we could meet your expectations! We hope to see you soon! The Basement Team!
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C
Ciara
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 26, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food was absolutely amazing! And the vibes were unreal too. Servers were really attentive. Only downside was that there was live music from 9pm and the musician was singing so loud/started getting louder when people were talking which ended up giving us head aches.
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Hello Ciara, thank you; we appreciate your feedback! We look forward to your next visit! Take care! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
LH
LisaH
London
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great drinks, delicious food & lovely staff. Really enjoyed it! Definitely book at the weekend to avoid disappointment.
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Lisah, we really appreciate your positive review! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
BM
BrianM
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 24, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Excellent food and very prompt and efficient service. Staff very helpful and a great buzz Well worth a visit and will return!!!!!
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Brianm, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
DS
DebraS
East Lothian
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 22, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
This was recommended by daughter, and it didn’t disappoint! I went with 2 friends, and we all LOVED it. The food was really delicious, and we left feeling nicely full after sharing amazing Nachos and a main each. The staff were all really friendly and helpful too, which helped make it even more enjoyable. It’s a casual dining, with a good buzz and friendly atmosphere, and we will all return and 100% recommend for a great supper.
The BasementResponded 4 days ago
Debras, we're so glad that we were able to go above and beyond your expectations! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
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PS
PetraS
Edinburgh
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on November 21, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Friendly service, great food, tasty drinks. Had a great time!
The BasementResponded on November 24, 2023
Petras, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
SM
SandraM
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 20, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Staff were all very friendly, food was amazing. The portions were huge and I've recommended the restaurant to friends already
The BasementResponded on November 24, 2023
Sandram, we really appreciate your positive review! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
L
Lindsay
Edinburgh
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 19, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Not been for years and still is a great place. Really enjoyed our afternoon. Staff great and good wonderful.
The BasementResponded on November 23, 2023
Hi Lindsay, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team
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MP
MrsP
Edinburgh
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on November 18, 2023
Overall4Food5Service4Ambience3
Drinks order was wrong twice but rectified Food absolutely excellent and really good gluten free choice We were in a very small area at the back and then a group of ladies who obviously thought the whole place was for them came in and literally sat on us until we moved - luckily we were finished but not a good way to finish an otherwise lovely meal
The BasementResponded on November 21, 2023
Mrsp, thank you so much for the positive review! We are sorry the end of your visit was disturbed. Thanks again for taking the time to leave us this information about your recent visit. Take care! The Basement Team!
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KR
KREDI
Denver
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 16, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
As someone who grew up in Southern California, I’ve been missing good Mexican food for years. Very happy we finally tried the basement, it’s the first Mexican place I’ve tried that holds up!
The BasementResponded on November 19, 2023
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review for us at The Basement. We're happy we could meet your expectations! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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CM
CarolM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 16, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
What a little gem of a place. We were lucky enough to be given an Edinburgh Flabour voucher to use, and The Basement is one of the places you can use this, so we booked for dinner on the day we were heading to the theatre. Wow! Absolutely fab place, I bet it has a great atmosphere in the later evening. Our food was impeccable and all the staff were really friendly and attentive. We will definitely be back when next in the city.
The BasementResponded on November 19, 2023
Hi Carol We are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! We look forward to your next visit! Take care! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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JG
JillG
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 11, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Wonderful restaurant. Great selection of drinks and the menu was fabulous. Atmosphere and decor was outstanding and the staff were attentive and helpful. Would definitely go back
The BasementResponded on November 13, 2023
Hi Jill We are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! We look forward to your next visit! Take care! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
SB
StephenB
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 11, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Staff were fantastic - obviously a busy place on a Saturday night, but the team were attentive and gave a really nice relaxed atmosphere. A cool space, and the food and drinks are on point!
The BasementResponded on November 13, 2023
Hi Stephen We really appreciate your positive review! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
H
Harty625
Edinburgh
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2023
Overall5Food5Service4Ambience4
Limited menu specialising in Mexican style food, but everything we have tried on the menu is delicious
The BasementResponded on November 17, 2023
Hi There We are delighted to see that you enjoyed your experience with us! Have a wonderful day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
K
Katie
New York Area
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 9, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great food and service at the Basement. They make the guacamole with fresh ingredients at your table, and the queso is set afire which makes the dining experience so much more fun.
The BasementResponded on November 15, 2023
Hi Katie Thank you so much for the positive review! Thanks again for the recommendation, and have an amazing day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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M
Mariana
Edinburgh
2 reviews
2.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 8, 2023
Overall2Food2Service3Ambience3
The dishes were not amazing, I think the quality has decreased a bit. Also they work with bookings but it took 1 h to get our food. We had to eat in 10 mins because we were late for a show.
The BasementResponded on November 11, 2023
Hi Mariana Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are sorry to hear that you didn't have a great experience with us. Your feedback has been noticed and taken on board. Thank you for your honest feedback and comments. If there is anything else we can do for you, please, don't hesitate to get in touch. Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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FS
FreyaS
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 4, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
One of the best places to eat in Edinburgh, the food is outstanding and the staff are excellent!
The BasementResponded on November 7, 2023
Hi Freyas, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for us at The Basement. We're happy we could meet your expectations! We hope to see you soon! The Basement Team!
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JD
JoshD
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on November 3, 2023
Overall3Food5Service2Ambience5
Food and atmosphere was great. Service wasn’t great as 1 main came out when we were still eating starter and 2nd main didn’t come out until 20 mins later (my wife had already finished her main! Then they automatically 10% service charge on the bill…..surly that should be down to the customer? Food, drink and atmosphere definitely saved the night
The BasementResponded on November 6, 2023
Hi Josh We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the food, drink and atmosphere at The Basement but we are sorry to hear that you weren't overly taken on with the service. Thank you for your honest feedback. The 10% service charge is discretionary. Apologies that this was not made clearer to you when you were presented with the bill. Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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EM
EMMG
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 3, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food was so good, the steak fajitas were amazing! The service was great.
The BasementResponded on November 6, 2023
Hi EMMG, Thank you so much for the positive review! We hope to see you soon! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
SC
StephenC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on October 29, 2023
Overall5Food5Service4Ambience5
Had a lovely meal and drinks and enjoyed the brilliant musician with his guitar, 10/10
The BasementResponded on November 2, 2023
Stephenc, Reviews like this give us motivation and help us ensure we provide high-quality care. Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
E
Elle
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on October 26, 2023
Overall1Food3Service1Ambience1
Poor service, got left unattended for about 30 mins and the drinks weren’t even what I asked For
The BasementResponded on October 28, 2023
Hi Elle, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service, so we are disappointed to hear that your visit with us was anything less than satisfactory. Thank you again for taking the time to let us know how we can improve. We hope you will consider us again in the future. Take care. The Basemen Team.
Is this helpful?
CS
CarolineS
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on October 24, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Very chilled and lovely food. Perfect for a week night treat
The BasementResponded on October 27, 2023
Carolines, we're so glad that we were able to go above and beyond your expectations! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
JH
JulieH
London
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on October 15, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
I’m from So Cal and absolutely loved this Mexican food. Fabulous flavor and the chicken was cooked beautifully perfectly! Highly recommend the nachos with drunken beans. We also loved the numerous margaritas we consumed. Plus, the live music made it a 10 out of 10 for us!
The BasementResponded on October 17, 2023
Julieh, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! We hope to see you soon! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
DW
DanW
Edinburgh
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on October 14, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Amazing atmosphere with the music, decor and food, staff were lovely too
The BasementResponded on October 17, 2023
Danw, thank you so much for the positive review! have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
SB
SandraB
Edinburgh
2 reviews
2.0
2 reviews
Dined on October 13, 2023
Overall2Food5Service5Ambience5
No complaint about the food and service , but how ever when I booked the table I was told we had a 2hrs slot 6-8.On finishing our main course we asked for the sweet menu the young waiter said he would have to ask the manager, came back and said the manager said no, this was 7:35. I said but we have the table till 8 he said sorry but he has to go with what the manager said. I asked for the bill he came back 20min later saying it’s ok you can have your sweet now you can have the table for another half an hour by this time it was 8 o clock. We said no just bring our bill spoke to the manager about it she was a waste of time tried to blame the young server he was only doing what she told him to do bad management.
The BasementResponded on October 17, 2023
Sandrab, thank you for taking the time to leave us feedback about your experience with us. It is discouraging to learn of your experience with us. Your feedback helps us improve and we would like to learn more about how we can make this better. The Basement Team!
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MO
MatthewO
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on October 11, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
I have eaten and drank at the Basement many times for a reason. Friendly service with a smile, good food, especially the buffalo wings and mouth watering Margaritas. We had a limited time as we were moving on to a gig and everything fitted in perfectly!
The BasementResponded on October 13, 2023
Matthewo, reviews like this give us motivation and help us ensure we provide high-quality care. Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
HJ
HenrikJ
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on October 4, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
Great experience, even though the room was a bit noisy. The food was better than anything I've ever had at a Mexican place (haven't been to Mexico, though). Really nice and kind staff as well!
The BasementResponded on October 6, 2023
Henrikj, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
KB
KenzieB
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on October 2, 2023
Overall3Food4Service2Ambience3
The food was lovely but the service was very slow. We had to flag someone down for service and when they gave us our check but then we had to find someone to actually pay the bill. It wasn’t especially busy either so it might have just been an off night.
The BasementResponded on October 11, 2023
Hi Kenzie Although we are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the food, we are disappointed to hear that the service was less than great. Your feedback is appreciated and we will strive for better. Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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TO
TinaO
Perthshire
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 30, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Lovely lunch , great service , cocktails and food. Very well worth a visit and the guacamole at the table is a winner!
The BasementResponded on October 6, 2023
Tinao, Reviews like this give us motivation and help us ensure we provide high-quality care. Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
DR
DianeR
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 28, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food was amazing and the staff were excellent.
The BasementResponded on October 1, 2023
Dianer, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
LG
LeonardG
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 27, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great find. Drinks and food were fantastic! Good place for Celiac
The BasementResponded on October 1, 2023
Leonardg, thank you so much for the positive review! We hope to see you soon! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
KR
KatherineR
Calgary
9 reviews
vip
5.0
9 reviews
Dined on September 26, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Delicious food and standout cocktails in a fun and intimate setting. I would definitely recommend the birria tacos and the flaming queso!
The BasementResponded on September 28, 2023
Katheriner, we are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Thank you, and have a fantastic day! The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 19, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
My favourite Mexican in Edinburgh, staff are always lovely and so helpful when asking questions about food, tequila etc! Food is banging and never disappoints!
The BasementResponded on September 23, 2023
Hi There! We are glad to hear you enjoy The Basement and the service we offer! We look forward to seeing you again sometime soon! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
LP
LaurenP
Yorkshire
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 18, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Food was superb, excellent value for money Also the staff were very attentive Would reccomend the beef tacos and the margaritas were spot on 👌
The BasementResponded on September 23, 2023
Hi Lauren We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time with us at The Basement! We hope you'll come back in so we can serve you again sometime soon! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
LC
LCW12
London
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 17, 2023
Overall4Food4Service4Ambience5
We enjoyed our visit to the Basement. Really cool little spot. We’re from the US and got the vibe from the waitress that she found us a bit annoying when we asked questions about food options. Would probably not go again but would recommend to anyone that likes the menu!
The BasementResponded on September 23, 2023
Hi There We are so pleased you enjoyed your visit to The Basement! Take care and have a wonderful day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
GA
GaryA
Edinburgh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 17, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great food, environment and drinks. Staff take the place to a new level all are absolutely amazingly friendly and attentive.
The BasementResponded on September 23, 2023
Hi Gary! Thank you very much for taking the time to leave us such a positive review! We hope to be of service to you again soon! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
KM
KeithMc
Glasgow
2 reviews
3.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2023
Overall3Food3Service4Ambience4
Food was very expensive for what it I recieved on the plate. Ordered the enchiladas, which were £14, and all it was was 2 skinny enchiladas on the middle of the plate, no side salad or refried beans or anything really. Definitely not a main course portion and definitely not worth £14.
The BasementResponded on September 21, 2023
Hi Keith Thank you for taking the time to leave us feedback about your experience with us. Your comments have taken on board. Kind regards, The Basement Team!
Is this helpful?
A
Amy1
Edinburgh
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2023
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
Really lovely experience at the basement, good food, great service and nice cocktails
The BasementResponded on September 21, 2023
Hi Amy Thank you again for taking the time to let us know how we did. We hope you have a great day! Kind regards, The Basement Team!
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Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing
- Surfaces sanitized between seatings
- Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
- Common areas deep-cleaned daily
- Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
- Contactless payment available
Physical distancing
- Limited number of seated diners
- Distancing maintained in common areas
- Extra space between tables

Protective equipment
- Waitstaff wear masks
- Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
- Contact tracing information collected

FAQs

The Basement is rated 4.6 stars by 1071 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 8, 2023

8:30 PM

Booked 25 times today

12a, 10a Broughton St, Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH1 3RH

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross street
York Place
Neighborhood
New Town
Hours of operation
Mon–Thu 2:00 pm–12:00 am Fri–Sun 12:00 pm–1:00 am
Price
£26 to £40
Cuisines
Mexican, Mexican / Southwestern, American
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street Parking
Public transit
York Place Tram Stop, Edinburgh Bus Route 08. We are around a 10-minute walk from Waverley Train Station and are just around the corner from the Bus Station.
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wine

Website
http://www.basement-bar-edinburgh.co.uk/
Phone number
0131 557 0097
Private party facilities
We have a separate area in the back which can hold up to 15 people.
Private party contact
Reservations: 0131 557 0097

The Basement

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information

Menu

What 1,071 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing

Physical distancing

Protective equipment

Screening

FAQs

How is The Basement restaurant rated?

Is The Basement currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information