Linda (Reading, UK) wrote on 19 December 2009

My husband and I visited the cafe/eatery part of Henderson's last week during our holiday in Edinburgh.

The counter service was a little off-putting, and the prices seemed high for this type of establishment and service. However, the food was absolutely lovely. We ordered the two (vegan) soups (Spicy tomato, and a vegetable soup). The spicy tomato had a gorgeous flavour and was very rich. The vegetable soup also had a lovely flavour, and was full of lots of bits of vegetables. The bread on the side was not the best and seemed a little dry and dense, but this was more than made up for by the taste of the soups.

We also had a cherry pie with cream (vegan) which was really nice.

The fresh fruit juice was a little pricey (as were all the drinks), but pleasant. The tea was really good (I can be fussy with teas, but I really enjoyed this one).

The atmosphere of the place was great - it was relaxed and warm and cosy. There was a gentleman at the piano playing relaxing music.

There were quite a few vegan options here, and we would definitely return next time we are in the area, both for the food and for the atmosphere. The options appear to change every day (at least in the cafe bit).

Calum Tait (Scottish Borders) wrote on 25 October 2009

Visited Henderson's recently after a long break and was disappointed with the quality of food and, even more so, at the prices. The food was bland, cafe style and priced above its level. Such a shame as this used to be one of my favourite places for lunch.

Hannah (Bridgend) wrote on 25 November 2008

Recommended! This restaurant has 3 options - the Bistro, the Salad Table & the Wine Bar. I tried the Bistro first. I tried the vegan haggis - which was great. The portions were good & I left feeling full! Vegan items clearly marked. I also tried the Salad Table. I arrived at 2145 & was informed they were closing the salad table area, however, we could eat by the wine bar. There were some local musicians playing piano/guitar & the place had a nice atmosphere. Again, the food was very nice. I had a 3 bean chilli. There is also a shop attached to the restaurant which I did not visit as it was closed both times.

Alister (Texas) wrote on 10 September 2008

I recently visited Henderson's while on holiday in Edinburgh and was so pleased! The staff was friendly and welcoming, and even helped me with directions around the city. The food was fabulous and fairly priced. The venue itself is cozy and inviting and it was an all around great experience.

M. Wilde (Manchester) wrote on 12 January 2008

We had the veggie haggis on New Year's Eve in the Bistro. It was delicious and good quality. The sweets were tasty and generous sizes. The staff were friendly and polite. There was an extensive menu and I felt that previous reviews on Veggie Heaven had be unfair.

Cailean Gallimore (Edinburgh) wrote on 22 July 2006

The absolute pits as regards vegetarian food in Edinburgh. Unfriendly, clueless staff. Bland food that's been thrown together without any care. Avoid like the plague.

John (Edinburgh) wrote on 14 January 2006

Having visited Hendersons on a number of occasions, I must say the place is dated.  It's always busy whenever I have been, with almost all tables taken but the food is a tad bland and the decor is just dated, dull and unwelcoming. Whenever my partner suggests somewhere veggie for lunch, I cringe if we have to go to Hendersons.  Did once have a bad experience there - emailed them, they acknowledged the email but never came back to me after they said they would investigate the complaint.

Koen van der Hauw (JJ Gouda, The Netherlands) wrote on 10 January 2006

Quality of food and staff is not that great, but still it's a nice place with plenty of possibilities for vegans. Can be very busy. They also serve some gluten free food.

Dorothy Snelgrove (Fort William) wrote on 27 October 2005

We have visited Henderson a lot over the last few years but see a decline in quality of food and staff and increase in the price recently. Shame!

Stuart Macfarlane (Dereham) wrote on 10 August 2005

Advertised as Scotland's premier vegetarian restaurant this was an extreme disappointment. Paltry servings of lukewarm, flavour free food served by unsmiling staff mean I will be giving Hendersons a wide berth on future visits to Edinburgh.

Paul Ridden (Middlesbrough) wrote on 6 May 2001

Henderson's is remarkably easy to find (just round the corner from the Assembly Rooms) and serves an impressive range of food. Vegan options are clearly marked but friendly assistance is always on hand should you need it. Price is very competitive and atmosphere warm. Bistro/bar upstairs to the rear and shop directly upstairs sells take-away specialities, and organic foods too. Well worth a visit or three!