If you’re looking to relax and venture out in the capital, there’s plenty you can do.
Besides sightseeing and taking pictures – because let’s be honest, our city is quite photogenic – you won’t miss anything to do.
The town offers pretty decent food, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan or carnivorous – and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.
But sometimes it’s just nice to sit back and relax with a coffee and a cake – or pastry – in hand watching the world go by.
So where should you go for a coffee and a nice play this weekend?
1. Fortuna Cafe Bar
This cafe is one of the most Instagrammable places we’ve seen.
It’s ranked as the second cafe to visit and it’s not hard to see why,
Their menu offers dishes such as avocado hummus and vegetable toast, bagels as well as a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches and pastries.
If you want to venture out with your four-legged friend, you’ll be even happier knowing that they are dog-friendly.
One review reads: “My boyfriend and I travel and it’s so nice to find a healthy little cafe to set up shop right next to our hotel! We had the scrambled egg and the toast/the Bacon toast and they were divine.We also had the chai latte and an iced caramel latte and they were also delicious.
“Such a lovely atmosphere with lovely waitresses and soft music, highly recommend to anyone looking for a nice little coffee date.”
77 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF Scotland
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2. Good tea room
We have to mention this place. Why? Because right now it’s ranked as the #1 place to visit on TripAdvisor when it comes to cafes.
The cafe has a full five star rating from nearly 300 reviews which tells you all,
They cater to vegans and vegetarians with coeliacs who also eat there.
One review reads: “Can’t recommend Bon enough. Afternoon tea was amazing and great value. You pick and choose the fillings for the sandwiches so you know what you’re looking for. “they are made fresh to order. Along with the scones and sweet treats on the stand, we were also offered a slice of cake to finish! We will definitely be back soon.”
279A St. Johns Road, Edinburgh EH12 7XF Scotland
3. The Barantine
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If you crave French food – and how can we blame you? – then you’re in luck.
TripAdvisor reviewers rave about this place and their pastries as well as their coffee so much that it is said to be the place to visit if you want “the French patisserie experience”.
One review read: “Lovely little French family cafe in Brusntsfield. The cakes and bread are all made on site by the pastry chef and baker – and they are truly exceptional. The coffee is wonderful, and if you go there first morning, the freshly baked croissants with jam are delicious.
“We recently ordered a tray of sweet petit fours to take away for a birthday party. It contained mini versions of all our favorite treats, including tiny chocolate éclairs, brownies, meringue and Paris Brest, among other things. It was incredibly delicious and the other guests kept asking where it came from. It was freshly prepared for collection that day and was excellent value. Thank you La Barantine for the exceptionally food good !”
202 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh EH10 4DF Scotland
4. The Cuckoo’s Bakery
Ranked number five in must-visit cafes, this spot will satisfy your appetite and your sweet tooth.
Not only is it ranked in the top five, but it has also been awarded TripAdvisor’s “Travelers Choice 2021”.
Fortunately, they also cater for everyone, whatever your dietary restrictions, with a menu including dishes like mac and cheese, roasted red pepper sandwich, French toast and Scottish pancakes with berry compote.
And it’s safe to say you’re not short of a cupcake selection.
A review reads: “I have loved this bakery since it opened. You know as soon as you walk through the door that you have entered a special place. “Last week I placed a small order and delivery for my parents. The staff was very helpful and accommodating, they always are whether you are buying for a party or a solo cupcake. Thank you.”
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150 Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 5DQ Scotland
5. Lowdown Cafe
It’s a place you don’t want to miss and others seem to agree with earning a full five star rating from nearly 300 reviews.
The self-labeled “modern coffee basement” in Edinburgh is very clean and is definitely one for coffee lovers.
And good news if you also love carrot cake because people say they make “the best carrot cake.”
One review reads: “Delicious cakes and tea in a modern setting with friendly service. Can’t ask for much more!” leprechaun. Other baked goods were sold out – a sure sign they were just as awesome. I had the tricolor tea which was a slightly lemony black tea and went perfectly with my choice of cake. I bet the coffee is just as delicious – I’d love to go back and try that and another pastry next!”
40 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LE Scotland
What’s your favorite place to eat in Edinburgh?
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