Bubba Q — Restaurant in City of Edinburgh

As an American who came across the pond from Alabama about 6 months ago, I had reservations about American style BBQ in Scotland. However, my family of 4, with 2 kids aged 3 & 6, were a bit exhausted after the train ride up (no nap due to the excitement), so we wanted someplace "safe" to eat that the kids wouldn't fuss over. Bubba Q fit the bill.

First, the ambiance. They have managed to successfully recreate an American style BBQ joint. If it weren't for the accents, you would be forgiven for thinking you had teleported to one of the southern cities in the States.

As for the food, I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised. Although it wasn't the best BBQ I have sampled, I have had much worse back in the States.

One quibble I and my wife have is that Europeans, Brits, and apparently, Scots have this misconception that American portion sizes are HUGE. And that any American style restaurant must have huge portions. This proves especially problematic when it comes to kids meals. The portions on each of my kids plates was better suited to an adult than a kid. Cut the portions in half, and avoid wasting food. I can't comment on the size of the adult entrees however, since we ordered the Pit Master platter, which was intended to be shared.

That quibble aside, the food was competent, if not exceptional. I could tell that there were two items that were keeping their Q from getting to the next level: 1 - it needed smoke. Specifically, it seemed like it was cooked in an oven rather than in a smoker or a pit. This being said, I realize that those probably aren't practical in Old Town, Royal Mile Edinburgh. 2- This one is probably the most important. The meat, especially the ribs, were cooked at too high of a heat and thus too fast. This made the meat a bit tougher than it should be, and definitely kept it from being fall off the bone delectable goodness. Lower the temp and lengthen the cooking time for better results.

But, as I said, for being in Edinburgh, Scotland instead of back home in the US, it was a very pleasant surprise. As such, I will give Bubba Q an extra star above what it would rate in the states, and...

Fellow Dairy Allergy Sufferers AVOID AVOID AVOID!!!

Having emailed as requested to alert to any allergens and having done the same on the booking system, about my allergy it was ignored when we got to the restaurant, no message, no note so what was the point?

When trying to place an order I was advised that they had no Burger Buns or Hotdog buns to cater to those with a Dairy Allergy. Gluten Free options had sold out... At 7pm on a Saturday... I was left to get a set of chicken wings, which were salty, dry and the 'barbeque' sauce was so bitter and salty it stung a crack in my lips.

I did get a look of an awkward apology from the waitress who had to keep saying sorry, to all of my requests. She was the only saving grace for this place, at least she cared and she did her best to help where possible.

My partner got the hotdog, which was covered in salt. Crystals of salt on the hotdog? Is this a thing this restaurant does, just make everything salty? I ate most of it.

I did consider leaving but as I had a £10 charge against my card for a no show, I was unsure if this would apply if we didn't order. This point annoyed me the most, you have a fee for a no show... Which is more than understandable, yet you offer absolutely nothing to those who can't help but suffer a food allergen.

So overall, just find anywhere else on this strip to eat... Anywhere! Even a pub for snacks, at least you don't pay £30 for poor...

Walking down the steep stairs into this basement diner feels like a journey into the heart of roadside America—if roadside America had the lingering scent of mildew (or maybe a wet dog, still not sure).

The decor screams 'vintage,' though I can’t tell if that’s by design or just years of neglect. There’s a weird charm to it, especially with the mix of music playing in the background—it’s like the diner has its own personality.

The food? Mine was alright, but my companion wasn’t as lucky. Her burger bun was so stale it could’ve been used as a hockey puck. Nothing worth raving about, but you don’t come to places like this expecting Michelin stars do you? You come for burgers and fries that do the job.

Be warned, though: they’ve got a thing for fish-based sauces. If you're allergic, check the labels, because the sauce might come with a surprise tang of the sea. Had to go with ketchup.

Now, about the drinks… let’s just say if you’re expecting a stiff one, you’ll be left disappointed. Mostly ice, barely any booze.

That said, the service was a pleasant surprise—five stars, easy. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made the whole experience a bit brighter.

All in all, it’s a decent enough spot if you’re after an okay meal in a place that smells like your gran’s basement. Just remember to hold your breath when...