We asked our MD James for his top coffee picks near our offices. You’d be surprised how much debate it caused amongst the team. But the good news is, whichever Office Space Scotland building you’re based in, your morning caffeine hit is never far away.
My top coffee stops near Hill Street
If you’re in the Hill Street offices and craving a quick coffee, I’d say head straight to Castle Street. Just a quick left out the door and you’ll be spoilt for choice. The closest (and probably my favourite) option is The Bonnie Barista. Not only is the coffee great, but so are the huge pastries, sandwiches and wraps.
Next up is Victor Hugo’s city-centre branch. A great choice for breakfast, a quick coffee with a contact, or lunch with a French twist. Just opposite you’ll also find Knoops, which serves just about any type of chocolate drink you could possibly imagine (and coffee, of course).
Drift a little further down the street and you’ll come across that working lunch staple Pret. I really like the new lobster roll and have always been a big fan of their cappuccino and friendly staff.
As you cross Rose Street, heading for Princes Street there are a few more tasty options. And yes, I’m going to include it here… Greggs. You just can’t beat them for value and with coffee prices reaching such astronomical levels in the city, you can make a pleasing saving here. I know everyone raves about their sausage rolls, but I’ve always been a steak bake man myself.
Costa is next, with the usual huge range of coffee and their excellent brownies which I can never seem to see past. Caffe In is close by too, where the toasted paninis are one of my favourite lunchtime treats.
And finally, we have Starbucks, on the corner of Castle Street and Princes Street. For years my guilty pleasure after a night out has been a latte and their sausage sandwich on the way to work.
Culture and coffee near North Saint David Street
Good news if you like a little culture with your coffee – your first option near our North St David Street office is actually a gallery. Our neighbour The Scottish National Portrait Gallery has a wonderful café full of great food and lovely coffee. A bit of a hidden gem if you need to pop out for a spot of downtime and some good food. And why not pop in to take a look at their latest exhibitions too.
Behind the Portrait Gallery on North Saint Andrew Street you’ll find The Square. Another good coffee option and they’ll make up a sandwich while you wait too.
Moving into St Andrew Square itself you’ll find a handy Costa with a few tables outside if you fancy pausing in the park for a bit. It’s a great location and on a sunny day a good spot for some people watching.
Just off St Andrew Square on South Saint Andrew Street you’ll find Black Sheep. Just make your order on the screens and collect in minutes. The ultimate in digital coffee convenience.
Finally, if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, try Burr & Co. on George Street. Located within the prestigious George Hotel, this cosy café makes one of the best coffees in Edinburgh. And there’s plenty of delicious breakfast fare and freshly made baguettes too.
So that’s my coffee round-up. There really is so much choice in the city centre, I’m sure you’ll find your own favourites. And although some of my colleagues are sceptical about the inclusion of Greggs here (Mel, I’m looking at you) – I stand by my choice. The steak bake deserves national treasure status as far as I’m concerned!
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