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Five of the best independent coffee shops in Edinburgh

A whole host of independent coffee shops are popping up all over Edinburgh, so we decided to pick out five of our favourites.

Published: January 23, 2018
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Independent coffee shops in Edinburgh

Fortitude Coffee

(3C York Place, EH1 3EB, 0131 557 3063)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTi3BzwjsM7/?hl=en&taken-by=fortitudecoffee

Although this shop is small, the coffee here is mighty.

Every single coffee is ground fresh to order, and brewed on the La Marzocco Linea PB using only filtered water.

There are only a few seats available, but that means that each coffee is given the time and dedication it deserves.

Every month, there is a guest roaster, showcasing the best small coffee brands and in terms of food, customers are spoiled for choice.

There are fantastic sandwiches from the Manna House Bakery, as well as soup from the Union of Genius and cakes from various Edinburgh bakeries.

Castello Coffee Co.

(7A Castle Street, EH2 3AH, 0131 225 9780)

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Independent coffee shops in Edinburgh

Picture: Castello Facebook

This wee gem is just off Princes Street, and has an unrivaled view of Edinburgh Castle.

It is a dinky place, with plenty of outdoor seating, making it an ideal venue for a coffee on a sunny day.

Always busy it serves espresso by Allpress.

If you are feeling peckish, Castello Coffee also serves fabulous homemade cakes, homemade soup and sandwiches.

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Thomas J. Walls

(Forrest Road, EH1 2QN, 0131 225 7242)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BOh9YB2Fukn/?taken-at=147270558642913&hl=en

This former opticians has kept its old-fashioned charm, but also has a modern sensibility which appeals to younger residents in the area.

The shop's former use is reflected in the antique gold lettering and clever logo which combines a pair of glasses and a cup of coffee.

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There are also elegant dark wood panels, which are complemented by daring modern light fittings and marble-topped tables.

As well as Red Brick seasonal espresso, Walls serves some tasty brunch options.

You can tuck into a sublime shakshuka, or poached eggs and hollandaise, or some other morning treat.

Cult Espresso

(104 Buccleuch Street, EH8 9NG)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQiLZlNjJOz/?taken-by=cult_espresso&hl=en

From the outside, Cult Espresso seems tiny.

However, when you step inside, you can see that it is actually rather spacious, with plenty of cosy corners to hide in.

It is just a couple of minutes from the Meadows, so after some time frolicking in the sun, what is better than a revitalising cup of coffee at Cult?

As well as the fantastic brews, there are also some trendy food options, including the ubiquitous avocado on toast.

Fans of Star Wars will be pleased to see a number of Star Wars Lego characters inhabiting the coffee shop, giving it that extra bit of character.

Century General Store and Café

(Montrose House, 1-7 Montrose Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5DJ)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ7vyvoAUDe/?taken-by=centurygeneralstore&hl=en

This store and café was launched in January 2016, and has become a hit with local residents.

Century offers a mix of artisan crafts and delicious coffee to its customers.

It has a range of products including old-fashioned stationery and beautiful home-ware.

The shop itself is achingly hip, with potted plants hanging from the ceiling, and a La Marzocco espresso machine.

The venue also hosts events, such as pop up wine evenings.

Maddy lives in Edinburgh and has written for the Sunday Herald and the Ed Fringe Review. She is passionate about authentic, sustainably sourced food, and is always keen to discover exciting new flavours.

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