Costa

I’m with the other Unilocalers on this Costa Coffee location. Average, but not bad.
There aren’t really any distinguishing features that make this one special or different from any other location. I would say that the seating inside has a good view of the street and is good for relaxing and people-​watching. The front seats also have outlets for computers so you can sit there for a while and get some work done, which is nice.
The coffee and tea is good, like any other Costa. I think the service was alright. My visit was in the afternoon and I had to wait a minute to get the attention of the gal who was working up front before I could place my order (she was talking to a co-​worker). The service was a bit weak to me, better service can be found at other locations.
In the end, this location is fine. I would come back again if a friend insisted on it. If I were deciding, I would probably go elsewhere first unless there was a pressing reason to go to this specific coffee shop.

Typical Costa coffee (like any coffee house these days) expensive moderately appetising food and consistent, standardised coffee. Nice and fresh décor being a relatively new place, great outdoor seating behind the premises, just a shame about the view from the front. In the space of an hour a shoplifter sprinted past on his way out of sainsburys (next door) with a pack of chored biscuits followed closely by 4 sainsburys staff who retrieved the goods; then the delight of two men raking through the bin for a plastic bag to save themselves 5p! So if you like entertainment with your coffee, or want to feel sick sit in the front window!

I’m not one for generic coffee, but when walking by yesterday I spied an outdoor seating area and went to investigate. It was quiet, had open seats, and it was surrounded by ancient stone on the sides and blue skies above.
At that moment, it was perfect. I had picked up a to go salad and was walking as fast as I could to the gardens to eat, but I pulled it out and munched in this little gem, got a coffee, and sat for a few more minutes just because I was so happy to have the respite of a full belly.
The cashiers were friendly and pleasant, the coffee was middle ground for what I’ve had to endure, at times, in edinburgh, and I would even still buy if it is a fine day and I want some peace and quiet.

And we have another Costa coffee shop in Edinburgh. I am not a big fan of chain coffee shops (hence 3*) however when in need it is handy to have one just round the corner. The new shop looked the same like any other Costa but there was a good feel to it. Costa lovers, go and check it out!