Best Local Breakfast, Brunch & Coffee Spots in Edinburgh

This Edinburgh eatery offers delicious, high-quality Scottish breakfast with fresh ingredients. The local spot features friendly staff who warmly greet guests and ensure everything runs smoothly. Prices remain reasonable for the generous portion sizes and quality. Perfect for families and brunch gatherings in Stockbridge.

Long wait times plague this restaurant despite adequate staffing - expect 20-30 minutes for food and drinks. Service issues include unwelcoming staff, dirty utensils, and food quality problems like undercooked sausage and eggshells. Hidden charges appear on bills. Gets very loud and crowded on weekends.

This Edinburgh brunch spot delivers exceptional food quality with standout dishes like Pantry Fry, blueberry waffles, and perfectly prepared eggs Benedict. Staff provide friendly, efficient service even during busy periods. The Stockbridge location offers peaceful outdoor seating. Fresh ingredients, great coffee, and impressive presentation make this a must-visit hidden gem.

The restaurant gets very busy, particularly around 10am and later morning hours. Guests may need to use a QR code waitlist system during peak times. Despite efficient service, the high volume of customers means the staff are constantly working at full capacity to keep up with demand.

Customers praise the generous portions and authentic Scottish breakfast experience. Staff receive consistent compliments for being friendly and attentive. Many reviewers highlight the quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods that create satisfying meals.

Some visitors mention occasional long wait times during peak breakfast hours. A few reviews note that the space can feel cramped when busy. Limited menu variety beyond breakfast items disappoints some diners seeking more diverse options.

Fortitude Coffee offers excellent coffee with smooth mochas and well-balanced drinks. Staff provides warm, friendly service with helpful recommendations and free milk alternatives. The cozy, relaxed atmosphere makes it a hidden gem worth finding. Good selection includes vegan cake options and specialty drinks like cortados served in cute cups.

The coffee shop gets very busy, making seating difficult during morning hours. Some drinks have acidic notes that may not suit all tastes. One staff member was reportedly rude and spoke too fast when busy. The location might be challenging for non-native English speakers to navigate due to communication barriers.

Travelers appreciate the great location and modern rooms that offer good space for couples at reasonable prices. The hotel staff provides helpful service, though they could improve their knowledge of local dining and entertainment options. The breakfast is adequate if unremarkable.

Major concerns include misleading amenities like paid parking located far from the hotel and expensive basic items. Room configurations don't match bookings, with double beds being two twins pushed together. Staff attitude is poor and unfriendly, making the overall experience disappointing.

Customers consistently praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable baristas who clearly explain different brewing methods. The industrial aesthetic appeals to many visitors, while the friendly service creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

Some customers find the space cramped during busy periods, with limited seating availability. A few reviews mention higher prices compared to chain coffee shops, and occasional complaints about inconsistent food quality during peak hours.

Spacious, bright cafe with wall-to-wall windows and clean facilities. Friendly, quick service with extensive menu including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Rich, generous portions that satisfy without being overwhelming. Great location for fueling Edinburgh exploration. Delicious food like French toast, power bowls, and cooked breakfast.

Drinks served too cold, which other customers also noticed. Beans in cooked breakfast were dry. Located slightly away from Edinburgh's main area in more student-focused neighborhood. Need to book tables in advance due to popularity. Limited negative feedback overall from reviewers.

This Edinburgh restaurant offers excellent food quality with professional, attentive service. Staff are patient and accommodating to special requests. The venue provides good disabled access and thoughtful touches like kids cutlery. Clean, inviting atmosphere with family-friendly seating arrangements near toys and windows.

Food and drinks are overpriced for the quality offered. The restaurant implements aggressive tipping policies with 12.5%% minimum suggested tip at checkout, which exceeds typical Edinburgh standards of 5-10%% discretionary charges, creating tip inflation concerns for visitors.

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional quality of freshly baked goods and friendly, welcoming staff. The cozy atmosphere and authentic local feel create a perfect neighborhood cafe experience. Breakfast items receive high marks, particularly the full Scottish breakfast and homemade pastries.

Some customers mention occasional long wait times during peak weekend hours and limited seating availability. A few reviews note that prices can be slightly higher than expected for portion sizes, and service can slow down when busy.

The plum cardamom pastry receives rave reviews for its perfect flaky texture and balanced sweetness. Coffee quality is solid with proper Italian espresso shots and well-crafted cappuccinos featuring ideal ratios. Extensive vegan pastry options surprise visitors. Staff work efficiently to move lines quickly. Great spot to combat jet lag.

Long lines form daily at both locations, creating 15+ minute waits that may not justify the experience. Limited indoor seating in small space forces reliance on weather-dependent outdoor benches. Staff friendliness varies significantly between locations. Prices feel elevated for average quality offerings that don't live up to considerable hype.

This small bakery serves delicious pastries that draw steady crowds. Lines move quickly despite popularity. Staff are friendly and welcoming. The food quality is consistently good, making it worth the wait for fresh baked goods.

Coffee quality is poor and tastes off. Staff can be rude and unwelcoming to customers. Only accepts card payments, no cash. Limited seating with strict policies about sitting before purchasing. No restroom facilities available for customers.

Visitors consistently praise the fluffy, perfectly cooked pancakes and creative flavor combinations. Many highlight the generous portions and Instagram-worthy presentation. Staff receives frequent compliments for friendly service and helpful recommendations. The cozy atmosphere and prime Old Town location add to the appeal.

Long wait times, especially on weekends, frustrate some customers. The small space can feel cramped during busy periods. A few guests mention higher prices compared to other breakfast spots. Limited seating sometimes results in rushed dining experiences during peak hours.

Artisan Roast delivers exceptional coffee quality with their popular Janszoon blend and diverse roaster's choice options. Their Edinburgh cafes provide lovely atmospheres while their subscription service offers convenient home delivery. Customer service excels with helpful, responsive staff who quickly resolve issues. The company maintains ethical practices through sustainable sourcing and strong grower relationships.

The main complaint centers on consuming the high-quality coffee too quickly, suggesting customers find it irresistible but may face frequent reordering. Some customers needed to contact support when website options didn't meet their specific needs, though staff resolved these issues promptly.

Prestonfield House offers exceptional service with genuinely welcoming staff who go above and beyond. The luxurious rooms feature unique decor and comfortable beds with stunning views. Outstanding food, generous breakfast portions, and perfect afternoon tea create memorable dining experiences. Multiple cozy spaces throughout the property provide intimate settings. Located conveniently near Edinburgh attractions with easy cab access.

The hotel comes with a premium price tag that may strain budgets. Some bathrooms show their age and lack modern updates, though renovations are underway. The older bathroom fixtures, while beautiful, could benefit from contemporary amenities to match the luxury standard expected at this price point.

Visitors consistently praise exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable staff who explain brewing methods. The industrial atmosphere with exposed brick creates great ambiance for working or socializing. Many highlight reasonable prices for specialty coffee and appreciate the locally roasted beans.

Some customers find limited food options disappointing, especially for full meals. Seating can be scarce during peak hours, and a few mention inconsistent service quality between different locations. WiFi connectivity issues occasionally frustrate laptop users.

Located on Victoria Street with great views, this cafe serves exceptional breakfast and brunch with fresh juices, homemade granola, and creative pancakes. Staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, creating a warm atmosphere. Food quality is outstanding with beautiful presentation, reasonable prices, and healthy options including excellent matcha and coffee.

Can get busy during peak times like Saturday mornings in August, though wait times are manageable. Some delays in service were noted, but staff apologized and service was generally considered quick despite the crowds.

Great juices, smoothies, and diverse menu with both savory and sweet options. Fresh açai bowls with homemade granola, goji berries, and banana are refreshing highlights. Cozy interior with comfort food including well-prepared haggis and chorizo dishes. Friendly staff and good music create a welcoming atmosphere.

Extremely slow service with staff avoiding customers and long waits to be seated or served. Poor order accuracy with missing drinks and wrong items delivered. Waitstaff frequently forget tables and management appears disinterested. Food quality doesn't justify high prices, making visits frustrating.

Customers praise the fresh ingredients and creative smoothie combinations. Many highlight the friendly staff who provide excellent recommendations. The acai bowls receive consistent compliments for generous toppings and presentation. Reviewers appreciate the healthy options in the city center.

Some customers find portions small for the price point. Limited seating can make it difficult to find a spot during busy periods. A few reviews mention inconsistent smoothie thickness. Wait times can be longer than expected during peak hours.

Twelve Triangles delivers exceptional pastries and coffee in a cozy Edinburgh bakery. Croissants are perfectly flaky, millionaire shortbread comes loaded with gooey caramel, and pain au chocolat has crispy texture. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering great local recommendations. The peaceful neighborhood location adds charm.

Limited indoor seating makes this primarily a grab-and-go spot. Expect lines outside due to small space. Some pastries could use more filling - pistachio flavor barely comes through in croissants and pain au chocolat needs more chocolate. Prices run higher than typical bakeries.

12 Triangles bakery delivers exceptional bread quality that customers travel long distances to enjoy. The seeded sourdough stands out as particularly outstanding. Fresh pastries and loaves are baked daily. Staff provides friendly, welcoming service. Excellent coffee complements the baked goods. Many visitors wish they had discovered this gem sooner.

Some hygiene concerns exist with uncovered cakes and scones on the counter. Quality can be inconsistent - one visitor found their croissant dry despite the premium price. Coffee drinks like mochas may not meet expectations. The bakery's popularity might contribute to occasional lapses in product consistency.

Customers praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable staff who explain bean origins and brewing methods. The fresh pastries and sourdough bread receive consistent acclaim. Many appreciate the cozy atmosphere and spacious seating arrangement.

Some visitors find prices higher than typical cafes and note limited food options beyond pastries and light meals. Weekend wait times can be lengthy, and seating fills up quickly during peak hours, especially for weekend brunch.

Edinburgh curry spot offers excellent value with flavorful dishes like chicken tikka masala and lamb rogan josh priced around £9-12. Cafeteria-style service is quick and efficient. Staff are welcoming and helpful. Generous portions with fragrant rice and well-spiced curries. Popular with students and tourists, located ten minutes from Princes Street.

One reviewer experienced severe food poisoning from contaminated chicken, suffering stomach pain, fever and headaches for five days. The naan bread quality received mixed reviews, with some finding better options elsewhere. Despite the tasty food, hygiene standards may need improvement based on the food safety incident.

Mosque Kitchen is an Edinburgh institution beloved by locals and visitors alike. This bustling restaurant serves authentic, flavorful halal food with generous portions at excellent prices - chicken biryani and lamb curry cost just £9. The casual canteen-style setting creates a communal atmosphere perfect for families and friends. Staff are welcoming and attentive.

The restaurant operates like a college cafeteria with shared tables and counter service, which some find impersonal. Food can be extremely spicy - even those accustomed to Indian cuisine may find curries uncomfortably hot. The casual dining style isn't suitable for everyone, and some diners wouldn't return despite acknowledging the good value.

Diners praise the enormous portions, rock-bottom prices, and authentic flavors that transport them to the subcontinent. Many highlight the friendly atmosphere where sharing tables creates a unique communal dining experience. The lamb curry and chicken dishes receive particular acclaim.

Some visitors find the basic decor and shared seating arrangements off-putting. Others mention long wait times during busy periods and the cash-only policy as inconvenient. A few note that service can feel rushed during peak hours.