by Siobhan Scott August 01, 2016 3 min read

The Brotique's Five Favourite Edinburgh Cafes

Walking around the city can be exhausting, particularly when you are trying to hop around during the Fringe. Here's our tour of five of our favourite stops for a caffeine fix. 


Cairngorm


Just up the road from our Queen Street store, Cairngorm is our most regular spot for our daily (or twice daily) coffee fix.


The interior is a must see in itself, it’s coffee sack ceiling paired with ipads mounted on the bar seating blends the contemporary needs of the coffee drinker with an edge of tradition.


Needless to say their coffees are fantastic, our team vary on how they take their caffeine, so having tested a cappuccino, flat white and long black, we have the authority to testify the great coffee. If you are after a snack, the grilled cheese is there delicacy.


There is now a second Cairngorm branch in Edinburgh’s west end with more seating and coffee that is just as good.



Fortitude


Coffee, marshmallows and donuts fresh from Twelve Triangles, another favourite of ours in Leith, what more could you want?


If you can get a seat in this bustling Queen Street coffee stop, the front round table is fantastic for a catch up over one of their excellent teas or coffees.


The location is another bonus, next to the beautiful Portrait Gallery. It’s a must see in Edinburgh and after wandering the opulent halls it’s inevitable that your brain may be a bit tired.



Century General Store, Abbeyhill


My regular Sunday stop, and my personal favourite in Edinburgh. In my coffee snob opinion, the baristas here make the best long black in the city with an option of the house blend or a guest bean.


The atmosphere is relaxing, full of plants and natural light, and sells some fantastic independent products and magazines to peruse after enjoying your coffee. If you are in the Marchmont end of town, their is a second smaller cafe that is equally as enjoyable.


Again, some cakes are available, regularly with gluten or dairy free options. The cinnamon bun is absolutely great to get some energy before a Sunday stroll in the nearby Holyrood park, dogs are allowed so you can team up a coffee with walking your pup.



Artisan Roast


The shop on Broughton Street immediately catches the eye with it’s eclectic exterior. Don’t be deceived by how small it appears, there is plenty of seating towards the back.


The coffee is revered by many a connoisseur, with the barista making the coffee right beside you, it is clear to see that these confident baristas know what they’re doing. The relaxed vibe makes it a fantastic stop for the morning after a big night or a relaxing solo coffee.



Lovecrumbs


Cakes, cakes and more cakes. The coffee is equally as great but if you are in the mood for a slice of fluffy goodness with unique ingredients, then this is the place for you.


Being so close to Edinburgh College of Art, the cafe itself is always busy but with plenty of places to sit. If you are after a place to drink and read, or have a private catch up, there is relaxing private seating to hide away in. On the other hand, there are large tables that are often occupied by more than one group adding a fantastic social aspect to the experience.




We’ve tried to pick cafes that cover the city to make sure that no matter where you are, you’ll be nearby your next coffee and can avoid those chains! 
Siobhan Scott
Siobhan Scott



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