Piano Cafe

Had lunch here recently after walking past it for months. Compact café with a really pleasant atmosphere.
We had soup and sandwiches which were delicious and it was very reasonably priced. I need to return soon to try the crepes!

There is no shortage of cafes in Edinburgh, and to speak bluntly the quality is all over the shop. So once you’ve found a found a few favorites, it’s hard to stray off the beaten path for fear of burnt milk or stale pastries.
But stray you must if you are to find hidden gems like the Piano Café! Surrounded by high rankers like Earthy, Circle and Coffee Angel, it’s took me over 6 months to give it a shot.
I was working from home and needed a change of scenery so was looking for somewhere quiet and unknown. I was lucky enough to snag the primo spot: a comfy leather couch in the front window. The girl working was perhaps the smiliest, happiest barista ever, and excitedly showed me their loose leaf tea collection, letting me smell each one and recommending her favourites. (I’ve been in a few times since and had the same welcoming treatment every time.)
With free wifi, I quietly worked away with my tea and cake with the barista only coming over occasionally to top up my water. Why this place gets 5 stars is because they have all the 4 necessities (comfy couch, good tea/​coffee, great service, yummy treats) and more. The ‘more’ is that elusive balance of knowing when to have a long friendly chat and when to just leave you be for hours…
UPDATE: They now have an Aussie barista so the coffee is one of the best in Edinburgh!