📷 4
Photos
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
BABA
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
vibrantcolorfulmezze-focused
About the Vibe
BABA brings the bold, aromatic flavors of the Levant right to George Street, and it's one of the few spots in Edinburgh's New Town that actually feels like a proper escape. The interiors are a riot of turquoise, burnt orange, and rustic textures that transport you straight to the Middle East, while the mezze-focused menu delivers earthy, wholesome dishes that are impossible to eat just one bite of. Skip the generic tourist traps on this street and come here for the crispy chickpea hummus, the Beiruti burrata, or any of the charcoal-grilled meats—they're all standout.
Known For
- •Hummus with crispy chickpeas and zhug
- •Beiruti burrata with peppers and chillis
- •Charcoal-grilled meats
- •Levantine mezze sharing plates
Best For
Group dinnersMezze sharingDate night
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 1, 2026
A Levantine Escape on George Street
BABA is a breath of fresh air on George Street, where the usual suspects often feel a bit samey. From the moment you walk in, you're hit with the scent of spices and the sight of a colorful, eclectic interior that's equal parts quirky and inviting. The restaurant is split into a front section with a large communal table and booths, and a more intimate back area, both drenched in Middle Eastern-inspired design.
The food is where BABA truly shines. The mezze is the star here, and for good reason. The hummus with crispy chickpeas, pine nuts, and zhug is a revelation—light, creamy, and packed with texture. The Beiruti burrata is another standout, with its creamy cheese balanced by the heat of jalapeños and the freshness of herbs. The charcoal-grilled meats are equally impressive, cooked to perfection with a smoky depth that's hard to find elsewhere in the city.
Service is warm and attentive without being overbearing, and the cocktail bar in the back is a nice touch for pre-dinner drinks. While it can get busy and the communal table might not be for everyone, BABA is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Levantine flavors in Edinburgh. Just be prepared to want to order every single mezze dish on the menu.