Brunch goes perfectly with days off, taking it easy and not rushing anything, and it’s perfect if you’re not an early riser or had a big night the day before! In Edinburgh you’ll find cafés for every taste, from full Scottish breakfasts to eggs, toast and plant-based options.
Here are six of our favourite places for brunch in Edinburgh, in the city centre, Stockbridge and Leith.
1. The Pantry
1 North West Circus Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 6ST
The Pantry is one of the most tempting places for brunch in Stockbridge. It’s next to Circus Lane and a few minutes from the Water of Leith, so you can combine your meal with a walk around one of Edinburgh’s prettiest neighbourhoods.
It has become a favourite with locals and visitors thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, fresh local ingredients and consistently good brunch menu. A great choice if you want to sit down and start the day with something more than a coffee and toast.
Note that they don’t take bookings: tables are given on a first-come, first-served basis. If there’s a queue, use the wait to browse the shops nearby.
2. Loudons New Waverley
2 Sibbald Walk, Edinburgh EH8 8FT
Loudons is a very convenient choice for brunch near the Royal Mile. Its New Waverley café fits easily into a morning of sightseeing in the Old Town, without going to another neighbourhood. They also have a café in Fountainbridge.
The menu includes cooked breakfasts with Scottish favourites like haggis and tattie scones, eggs, pancakes, French toast and lighter dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan options and choices for different dietary needs, handy if you are in a group and everyone wants something different.
A good choice for a relaxed meal in a modern setting. Check the menu and availability before you go, especially at weekends.
3. Urban Angel
121 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
Urban Angel is a highly recommended café for breakfast or brunch in the New Town. Its location on Hanover Street makes it a great break between the shops of George Street and Princes Street.
It serves brunch all day, with carefully sourced ingredients and bread baked on site: eggs Benedict, French toast, smoothie bowls and fresh juices, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Ideal if you want a more elaborate breakfast, good coffee and a pleasant atmosphere in the centre.
You can book a table on their website. The menu changes, so check it if you have your heart set on a particular dish.
4. Roseleaf Bar Café
23-24 Sandport Place, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EW
For a quirky and casual brunch, try this long-standing favourite in Leith. It’s a mix of bar, café and bistro, furnished with second-hand finds and unusual trinkets, with a friendly, family atmosphere.
Its highly praised brunch menu includes classic Scottish dishes such as haggis, black pudding and smoked salmon, and an excellent Scottish breakfast, as well as plenty of vegetarian options. Have it with a fresh juice or one of their legendary Bloody Marys!
It’s also a great place for a cocktail after dinner, but above all it’s one of the best places in Edinburgh for brunch. Book ahead, as it fills up easily, especially at weekends.
5. Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch
65 Pleasance, Edinburgh EH8 9TG
This small café on the Pleasance is an informal option for breakfast or brunch without fuss or spending too much. It is a family-run place, simpler than designer brunch spots, but with very good quality food and great staff.
BBL also stands out for its handmade vegan products, and there are vegetarian and gluten-free options too. Check the day’s options and any specific dietary needs before ordering. A good stop if you are around the Southside or the University.
6. The Edinburgh Larder
15 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh EH1 1NB
The Edinburgh Larder is a great choice if you want seasonal Scottish produce for breakfast or brunch. It’s on Blackfriars Street, a few steps from the Royal Mile.
The menu includes Scottish breakfasts and options for every taste, including vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and food cooked to order.
A very convenient stop before exploring more of the Old Town. Book if you want to be sure of a table, especially at busy times. For more ideas, see our guide to the best breakfast spots in Edinburgh.
