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Discover the best coffee shops in Edinburgh’s Old Town! From cozy cafes to specialty roasters, explore the best places to grab a cup of joe in the heart of the city.
Edinburgh completely swept me off my feet, catching me by surprise. I never expected to fall so deeply in love with this city. Its beauty took me aback and now, without a doubt, it’s earned a top spot on my list of favorite cities.
Perhaps it’s because I felt like I was living in the world of Harry Potter the entire time, but its charming atmosphere and creative vibes have inspired countless tales and it’s easy to see why.
For me, exploring the quaint coffee shops and cafes in any city is one of the highlights of my visit. There’s nothing quite like people watching over a warm cup of coffee and (trying to) blend in with the locals. And Edinburgh is no different.
So seek shelter from the rain and duck into a cafe! In this guide, I’ll share my top picks, along with some local recommendations for third-wave coffee shops within walking distance of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Planning a trip to Edinburgh?
If you are booking your trip to Edinburgh, here’s a tldr of some of the top tours, hotels, and more!
🎟️ Top Experiences and Tours in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour
Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
Underground Vaults Tour
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
The Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience
🛌 Top Hotels in Edinburgh:
Eden Locke
Market Street Hotel
The Rutland Hotel & Apartments
Map of The Best Coffee Shops in Edinburgh’s Old Town
The Milkman
Address | 7 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1BP and 52 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1PB
The Milkman, with two locations along Cockburn Street, is one of the best coffee shops in Edinburgh’s Old Town. If you have time, check out both spots, but for the iconic Milkman storefront with the curved windows you see on Instagram, head to 52 Cockburn Street!
I remember standing outside this café for ages, soaking in its old-time charm. The ambiance takes you back to the 1800s, adding to Edinburgh’s already charming old-town vibe. And once inside, you’ll find amazing coffee paired with irresistible cakes.
It’s a relatively tiny space though, with limited seating so I suggest coming during off-peak times. Try to grab a window seat to fully enjoy the enchanting charm of the Old Town!
Lowdown Coffee
Address | 40 George St EH2 2LE Edinburgh
Located in the basement of a quaint Georgian-style building, this hidden gem epitomizes Edinburgh’s trendy coffee scene. Serving roasts from Koppi, a renowned Swedish coffee roaster, it brings an international touch to the city’s bustling coffee culture.
In the summer, guests can enjoy their coffee outdoors, embracing the morning breeze with their favorite brew. With its charming atmosphere and diverse coffee selection, this spot is a must for any coffee lover exploring Edinburgh.
Black Medicine Coffee Co.
Address | 2 Nicolson St, Edinburgh EH8 9DH
Black Medicine Coffee Co. has stood as an Edinburgh coffee staple for over two decades, renowned for its exceptional brews and commitment to sustainability. While the café gained fame from rumors linking it to J.K. Rowling’s writing of the Harry Potter series, the truth is that Rowling wrote in the apartment above, not in the café itself. Nevertheless, with its cozy ambiance and eco-friendly practices, Black Medicine Coffee Co. remains a beloved spot in Edinburgh’s coffee scene.
It’s a quaint cafe that serves decent coffee but I would personally steer away from the food.
Cappuccino
Address | 25 Jeffrey Street EH1 1DH
I happened to chance upon this quaint little coffee shop while walking to Waverly Station and was pleasantly surprised. I only had time for a takeaway but the interior looked so cosy and charming, I would love to return for a sit-down coffee.
Room & Rumors Coffee
Address | 27 E Market St, Edinburgh EH8 8FS
Room & Rumors Coffee is famous for its donuts and cinnamon buns (which are a must-try) but also offers fantastic specialty coffee in Edinburgh! During my visit, they featured guest beans from NOMAD and The Barn, two of the best roasters in Europe, making it a real treat for coffee enthusiasts like me. They also have a good decaf option from Origin and plenty of tasty pastries and treats. Definitely a no-brainer if you’re using nearby Waverley Station.
The Cobbled Roastery
Address | 48 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1EN
When I stumbled upon Cobbled Roastery, it felt like uncovering a hidden gem. The place exudes a unique charm that’s hard to come by elsewhere in Edinburgh. It’s not just about the coffee; it’s the entire ambiance. You can sense the passion and dedication poured into every cup.
The coffee is exceptional, and the staff is incredibly friendly, providing excellent service that adds to the overall experience. The shop is quite small, so larger groups may prefer takeaway.
Artisan Roast
Address | 57 Broughton street, Edinburgh, EH13RJ and various other locations
Artisan Roast offers several locations across Edinburgh, but the Broughton Street café is the closest one to Edinburgh’s Old Town. As Scotland’s first specialty coffee shop and roaster, it radiates with energy and warmth. Enjoy their meticulously crafted brews while relishing a comforting bowl of soup to combat the Scottish drizzle.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to their irresistible baked goods, perfectly paired with the cozy ambiance. What’s more, this café is dog-friendly, so you can enjoy your coffee accompanied by your furry friend. Always a plus in my books!
Triple-Tri Coffee
Address | 45A York Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3HP
If you’re on the hunt for a café that not only serves excellent coffee but also offers food options, look no further – this place is a true gem! Their coffee is brewed to perfection and bursting with rich, bold flavors, it’s the perfect complement to any meal.
Thomas J Walls Coffee
Address | Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN
If you’re heading to The National Museum of Scotland (and seriously, you gotta check it out!), swing by Thomas J Walls Coffee for a relaxed vibe and yummy treats. The staff here are super friendly, and the cozy wood decor makes it feel like home. While it’s not strictly vegan, they’ve got plenty of plant-based goodies to choose from. It’s the perfect spot to refuel and recharge during your museum adventures!
Format Coffee
Address | 124 Buccleuch St, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9NQ
Located a bit farther from the Old Town, but if you’re around The Meadows, Format is definitely worth a try. Format is a chill café that’s slowly but surely making waves. Despite its small size and low-key vibe, it packs a punch with its amazing offerings. Don’t miss out on their scrumptious bagels paired with your favorite brew for a truly satisfying treat.
Cult Coffee Roasters
Address | 104 Buccleuch St, Edinburgh EH8 9NQ
And right next door to Format Coffee is Cult Coffee Roasters. So if you have space for more than one coffee, you can give these guys a try too . Alongside their locally sourced beans, they feature seasonal roasts from top-notch breweries across Europe and the UK.
With its cozy ambiance, marked by brick walls and inviting decor, it’s the perfect spot to dive into a good book, catch up on some work, or simply enjoy a chat with pals.
They also have a sister running club that gathers every Saturday morning at 8.30am if that’s your jam!
Cairngorm Coffee
Address | 1 Melville Pl, Edinburgh EH3 7PR
If you’re looking for a cafe that roasts its own beans, look no further. Their bright yellow branded cups add a cheerful vibe to your coffee experience, and their selection of small bites perfectly complements their locally sourced brews.
Even if you’re not in Scotland, you can still enjoy their exceptional coffee, as they offer shipping to many countries worldwide. And if you’re a fan of their coffee and vibe, you’ll love their stylish long-sleeve shirts, perfect for showing off your love for coffee, local spots, and the great outdoors!
Where is the J K Rowling Cafe?
For Harry Potter fans, Edinburgh is like stepping into a magical realm waiting to be discovered. From famous spots like Greyfriars Kirkyard to specialized wizarding shops and activities like escape rooms and tours, there’s no shortage of enchantment to be found.
One place that often captures attention is The Elephant House café, rumored to be where J.K. Rowling first put pen to paper for the Harry Potter series. Known as the “J.K. Rowling café,” it’s a hotspot for fans eager to soak in the magical atmosphere.
However, like the whispers that echo through Hogwarts, the connection between The Elephant House and Rowling’s writing process is more fiction than fact.
While it’s true that Rowling did spend time writing in The Elephant House café, she’s clarified that the initial spark for Harry Potter didn’t happen there. Nonetheless, the café remains a beloved pilgrimage site for devoted fans, offering a treasure trove of memorabilia to explore.
Unfortunately, The Elephant House is temporarily closed due to a fire, meaning the iconic Harry Potter café in Edinburgh is off-limits for now. But fear not! There are still plenty of Rowling and Potter-related sites to uncover throughout the city. And with the charming cafes listed above, you’re bound to find another cozy spot to enjoy in the meantime.
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