Finding the perfect cafe in Edinburgh can be a daunting task. With so many to choose from, it’s hard to know which one will really hit the spot and provide that much-needed escape from reality.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate place where you can relax with friends or a vibrant atmosphere to get your creative juices flowing, this article is here to help you find the ideal cafe in Scotland’s capital city!
From cozy cafes tucked away down winding cobbled streets, to buzzing spots in the heart of bustling districts – we’ve got something for everyone.
So grab yourself a cuppa, sit back and read on as we take you through some of the best cafes Edinburgh has to offer.
The Best Cafes In Old Town
Exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town is a great way to experience the city’s historic charm, and there are plenty of cafes to choose from.
If you’re looking for vintage vibes with a modern twist, try Cafe Royal; its stylish interior and decor offer an inviting atmosphere that will make any visit memorable. You’ll find local flavours in their hand-crafted coffee drinks and baked goods – all made fresh daily!
For something truly unique, head down the street to The Elephant House Café where you can enjoy everything from hot chocolate to gluten-free treats while taking in stunning views of Scotland’s capital.
No matter what type of cafe experience you seek, Old Town has something special waiting for you.
Charming Coffee Shops In The New Town
If you’re looking for a charming cafe in Edinburgh’s New Town, then look no further! With its convenient location and stylish atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends or get some work done.
Not only does it boast outdoor seating and free wifi, but also a menu of delicious food and drinks that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you fancy an espresso or a hot chocolate, they have something for everyone – plus their selection of pastries is always worth trying!
The staff are friendly and helpful too; they’ll make sure you feel right at home while enjoying all the place has to offer.
So why not stop by this lovely little coffee shop next time you’re in town? You won’t regret it!
Hidden Gems In The West End
If you’re after some hidden gems in Edinburgh’s West End, then look no further than the charming cafes tucked away down cobblestoned alleyways.
Here, locals and travelers alike can experience a true taste of local culture while indulging in artisanal treats.
From funky coffee shops with vintage decor to cozy tea rooms serving up home-baked cakes, there’s something here for everyone!
Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or an afternoon of leisurely pleasure, these unique spots will have you feeling right at home.
So what are you waiting for? Go explore and find your favorite cafe in the West End!
Stylish Spots In Stockbridge
The stylish district of Stockbridge is home to some of the best cafes in Edinburgh. If you’re looking for high-end artisanal bakeries and modern bistros, this is the place to be!
Here’s a shortlist of must-try places:
1) Artisan Roast Coffee House where their signature pour-over coffee will leave you wanting more;
2) The Pantry Cafe with its award-winning brunch menu;
3) Leith Depot that allows you to make your own pizza from locally sourced ingredients.
Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, Stockbridge has something special waiting for everyone! All these eateries offer an unforgettable experience – one not easily forgotten.
Traditional Tea Rooms In Leith
Leith is home to some of the most delightful and traditional tea rooms in Edinburgh.
If you’re looking for a cozy place to enjoy an afternoon tea, these charming spots are sure to please!
Enjoy homemade scones with clotted cream and jam while sipping on your favorite tea blend.
Whether it’s an intimate gathering or just a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than at one of Leith’s traditional tea rooms.
With their warm atmosphere and delicious treats, they offer both comfort and peace – perfect for anyone longing for freedom.
Cosy Cafes In Morningside
Morningside is also home to some cozy cafes that are perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly spot, then look no further than the quaint cafe tucked away on South Clerk Street. With its outdoor seating and stunning views of Arthur’s Seat, this cafe quickly became one of my favorite spots in Edinburgh.
The menu consists of freshly prepared dishes with exquisite flavors as well as traditional Scottish fare. For something unique, try their take on haggis – it will not disappoint!
Whether you choose to dine indoors or al fresco, you can expect nothing less than exceptional hospitality from the kind staff here.
All in all, I highly recommend visiting this delightful cafe if you ever find yourself in Morningside.
Independent Coffee Houses In The Southside
The Southside of Edinburgh has no shortage of independent coffee houses – from cozy hideaways to bustling hotspots. Each one is unique in its own way, offering organic teas and artisan roasters that will tantalize your taste buds and provide a sense of freedom as you sip on your cup.
From the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon chat with friends, to finding solace away from it all, these independent coffee houses are sure to have something special just for you. Whether you’re looking for a classic espresso or something more exotic, the Southside offers plenty of choices to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
So come on over and take a break while exploring what makes each cafe so different yet so undeniably inviting!
Industrial Chic In The East End
Leaving the bustling coffee houses of the Southside behind, we venture to another area in Edinburgh: the East End. Here you’ll find cafes with an industrial chic aesthetic and a focus on sustainability – locally sourced ingredients are just as important as street art murals that adorn their walls.
If this is your scene, these five places should be at the top of your list:
- The Brew Lab – This cafe specializes in ethically-sourced single origin coffees from around the world, paired with delicious breakfast and lunch options made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Brewhemia – If it’s craft beer you’re after, Brewhemia has one of the widest selections in town! They also serve some hearty bar snacks using sustainable ingredients.
- Cairngorm Coffee House – Enjoy a cup of freshly roasted Colombian or Costa Rican coffee while admiring the vintage furniture decorating this 1930s style cafe.
- Kember & Jones Cafe – A bright space serving organic breakfasts and lunches alongside specialty teas and homemade cakes. Stop by for a peaceful afternoon tea surrounded by modern artwork!
- Muckle Teacake Tea Room– Perfectly capturing the traditional charm of Scotland, Muckle Teacake serves up classic Scottish dishes like scones, shortbread and haggis along with plenty of tea options.
So whether you fancy sipping a cappuccino among street art murals or sitting down for a pint amongst vintage furnishings; there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh’s East End!
Hipster Havens In The North
If you’re looking for a hipster haven in Edinburgh, look no further than the north side of town. Here, you’ll find an abundance of artisanal bakeries and chain specialty shops that serve up delicious treats to satisfy your cravings.
From vegan-friendly eateries to coffeehouses that source their beans directly from farmers, there’s something here to suit all tastes. The atmosphere is relaxed yet electric—you can sense the freedom everyone feels when they sit down at one of these cafes and enjoy a meal or cup of joe with friends.
Whether it’s brunch on Sunday morning or dinner after work, the Northside has got you covered. So don’t waste any more time searching for the perfect cafe in Edinburgh; this area offers plenty of choices!
Quirky Cafes In The Suburbs
When it comes to finding quirky cafes in the suburbs of Edinburgh, there’s nothing quite like The Urban Bean.
This hidden gem offers alternative vibes, urban culture and a unique experience unlike any other cafe in town.
From its vibrant atmosphere to its delicious menu with vegan options, you can expect an amazing time when visiting this one-of-a-kind spot.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or just want to enjoy a good cup of coffee while soaking up some local flavor, The Urban Bean is sure to satisfy your needs.
Experience something new today and explore what this hip hangout has in store!
Conclusion
I have found that Edinburgh is a city full of wonderful cafes. From the charming coffee shops in the New Town to the industrial chic in the East End, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional tea room or an independent coffee house, this Scottish capital has it all! Each cafe had its own unique atmosphere and style, so no matter what your preferences are, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy some quality time with friends and family.
I highly recommend exploring all of these great cafes; they will not disappoint!