Local coffee shops are essential during my travels. Not only do they help feed my caffeine addiction, but they provide quality food for breakfast, a fun place to hang out, and access to friendly locals who can help with directions or point out interesting local sites that are not in most guidebooks.
The Coffee Cave in Edinburgh provided all those things on a recent visit.
The shop was founded by locals who wanted to bring great coffee to an up-and-coming and underserved area. The cafe serves a variety of coffees, which change based on the beans that are in season in the various coffee-growing regions of Colombia, Brazil, Uganda, and Peru. Choosing beans in season allows for the highest levels of quality and freshness. The cafe obtains its coffee from Black Dog Coffee Roasters, a small roastery in Linlithgow, Scotland, that sources ethically and sustainably-traded beans.
As a destination for a bite on the go, the shop sells fantastic sweet baked goods and savory items that are hearty enough to count as a meal. I heartily recommend the sausage rolls for breakfast! The sweets are sure to bring a smile to your face anytime.
Bright signage adorns the historic building, built in 1864, one of the oldest on the street. A well-used bench welcomes visitors to sit outside the front door. The shop is tiny and take-out only. On multiple visits, customers filled the shop and even lined up outside. Based on friendly conversations with others, it is a local favorite. This personal service and familiarity are unique to small local shops. Chain coffee shops and larger cafes cannot compete.
When in Edinburgh, take a short walk down Fountainbridge from the most common tourist sites and sample this local gem.
The Coffee Cave
158 Fountainbridge,
Edinburgh EH3 9RX, United Kingdom
