Coffee Shop Ideas For The Festival & Beyond
Where to find the best coffee spots in and around Edinburgh
There are lots of lovely coffee shops in and around Edinburgh, too many to list! We have picked out our top five favourites that are perfect for either a quick caffeine fix ahead of a busy day or a relaxing seat with a good book in a cozy atmosphere. Each spot has its own unique qualities, so hopefully these are useful, especially with the upcoming Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Drift is an unusual and unique location for a coffee house. Inspired by an up-cycled shipping container, located on a cliff edge in East Lothian, that was being used to serve tea in Bristol. Owners Stuart and Jo McNicol have created a truly special place to grab a delicious coffee or tastey brunch/ lunch that is freshly prepared and sourced locally. You can either sit in and enjoy the seaside views or if you are looking for a quick takeaway you can order a coffee or snack for the road. This is a great location to stop off on your way to or from a day out in North Berwick.
If you're looking for the perfect seaside spot to relax and indulge, look no further than The Beach House Café in Edinburgh. The Beach House Café is located on Portobello Promenade, where you can appreciate the stunning views while enjoying their delightful offerings. Imagine sipping an award-winning organic coffee as the waves gently lap against the shore—pure bliss! Their menu features a mouthwatering array of breakfast and lunch options, as well as delicious bakery treats that are sure to satisfy any craving.
This gem of a bakery, owned by Darcie Maher—formerly a baker at The Palmerston—offers a mouthwatering selection of Viennoiserie baked goods, exquisite pastries, cakes, sandwiches, and, of course, the all-important takeaway coffee. The moment you step into Lannan Bakery, you'll be greeted by a beautifully designed interior and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to treat yourself to one of their in-house baked delights while soaking in the bakery's charming ambiance. Whether you're in the mood for a flaky croissant, a decadent slice of cake, or a hearty sandwich, Lannan has something to satisfy every craving. Their coffee is a standout, brewed to perfection and the ideal companion to their delicious pastries. It's no wonder this bakery has quickly become a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists alike.
One piece of advice: go early! Lannan Bakery's treats are so irresistible that they tend to sell out quickly.
Located in Edinburgh’s old town, The Milkman is an independent coffee shop designed to be the perfect place for you to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. It is the perfect location to bring a good book and enjoy this quiet nook. They have two locations, Edinburgh and one in Peebles; offering sit in and takeaway coffees accompanied by scrumptious cakes. The Milkman believe that speciality coffee should be available to everyone – coffee connoisseurs or not – with the most welcoming baristas who are always happy to help you choose the best coffee suited for you. They make it their priority to never compromise on quality.
Mayvn is a hidden gem on George Street Edinburgh. It is in the perfect location to get some productive work or studies done outside of your home. It has two rows of tables/desks that are ideal for remote workers. The café is known for its late-night opening hours, 7 days a week. You can also either grab a coffee on the way home from the office or stop by for a glass of wine. This truly is a work friendly café with a cosy vibe, laptop dedicated benches have plugs under every seat. Mayvn serve and sell the best coffee from Common Coffee, which is roasted at Rosemains Steading.
