Bross

I had been hearing enthusiastic reports about Bross, the new bagel place on Portobello High Street. It had been lingering on my list of places to visit for a few weeks. On a quiet Monday I took a trip down to Porty to check it out.

Exterior

It has quite a striking look inside and not one, I suspect, that will find favour with everyone. It’s classic Shoreditch and perhaps also draws upon the design origins of the place that is apparently the modern home (although of the place of origin, which is of course Poland) bagels, Montreal. I liked it a lot.

The first thing I noticed was that they had a bespoke house blend coffee. Upon a little investigation, it turns out the owners developed it with North Berwick roasters Howdah. I sampled it as an espresso and it was pretty good.

Bagel

Then it was on to the main event, the bagel. I chose the Porty from their specials selection. It brought together hot smoked salmon, crowdie cream cheese and a little dill.

The bagels themselves are made by local bakery Breadshare with Bross creating the various filling options.

It was an enjoyable eat with the wholemeal bagel I’d chosen suitably fresh and chewy. The filling was of very good quality. I can’t speak for how it compares to Montreal’s finest but it has strong claims on being the best bagel I’ve had in Edinburgh.

So overall, I was pleased to finally make it down to Porty to check out Bross. It’s a place with a friendly and warm feel to it and once you get past the archly hipster interior it’s well worthy of your attention.

Scores
Blythe scores Bross
4/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16/20

I ate: The Porty (smoked salmon, crowdie, dill)

I drank: espresso

I wore: relaxed blue

Total bill: £8

Address: 186 Portobello High Street, Edinburgh EH15 1EX