Welcome to Thistle Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Thistle Cafe offers a delightful escape from the bustling streets of the Royal Mile. With its warm, homely atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a sanctuary for those seeking quality comfort food. Renowned for its Scottish classics, the cafe serves up mouthwatering dishes like the best Scottish Pie and haggis, each prepared fresh to order. Sweet indulgences like rich chocolate cake and freshly baked scones complement the hearty meals. Patrons rave about the authentic experience, complete with local favorites like IRN-BRU. Thistle Cafe is truly a hidden gem, inviting customers to relish great food in a cozy setting.
Thistle Cafe: Reviews & Ratings
I was very surprised at the quality of food served here. It was so close to the Castle and crowd that could probably get away with selling slop but it was the best Scottish Pie and Haggis I’ve ever had, large serving and quick service. They even carry IRN-BRU to make it authentic
Great food, served quickly. If you’re looking for a simple and fresh meal, this place is perfect! The cake of the day was delicious
Had a cappuccino here, staff were very friendly and helpful. No network here as the cafe is underground, but staff were happy to give the wifi password to us. Feels like a friendly homely cafe in the middle of a bustling city.
Few days ago, I visited this cafe. In many years, although I recognized this, I didn’t have a chance to visit there. All staffs were very friendly. Cafe and tea and scone were good. I love this kinds of wee cafe. Looking forward to visiting again. Thank you!
Great little place just off the royal mile to grab some good food. I had the Scotch Pie with Haggis and Beans. It was delicious. The staff was friendly and quick. Food cooked fresh as it's ordered. Prices are decent for the location. Definitely step away from the crowded street and try this place.
Was looking for a dog friendly cafe in for lunch and stumbled across this one. Staff were so welcoming and gave our dog a fuss! They even cooked her two sausages without us asking. Coffee was amazing and we both had paninis which were delicious, generous portion of fries too. 100% recommend and would go back
We had 2 hot drinks and 2 paninis which came with nachos which was really tasty. Friendly welcome and staff. Give this place a try!!
My friends and I stumbled upon this cozy Scottish cafe and loved every bit of it! The food was fantastic—everything from the hearty soups and Scottish breakfast to the fresh scones felt homemade and packed with local flavor. The staff were super friendly and gave us great recommendations without hovering, which made us feel right at home. Prices were really reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, so it’s a great spot whether you’re a local or just passing through. Perfect for a casual meet-up or a cozy lunch on a chilly day. We’ll definitely be back!
Location
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493 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PB, United Kingdom Hotline:
Welcome to Thistle Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Edinburgh at 493 Lawnmarket, just a stone's throw from the iconic Castle. This charming underground cafe offers patrons an authentic taste of Scotland, serving up traditional dishes with a modern twist. With an inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy retreat from the bustling city above, Thistle Cafe has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Scottish Specials: The menu boasts standout items like the renowned Scotch Pie and Haggis Burger, both priced at just £13. These dishes, rich in flavor and heritage, promise to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Scotland.
- Comfort in a Bowl: For those seeking warmth and comfort, the Soup of the Day at £8 is an ideal choice. Each bowl is crafted with care, showcasing seasonal ingredients that reflect Scotland's natural bounty.
- Decadent Snacks: If you're in the mood for a quick bite, the Nachos are a must-try. Choose from cheesy options starting at £6, or indulge in the more elaborate combinations with haggis and beans, starting at £7.
Reviews from satisfied customers highlight the quality of the food and the friendly service, two pillars that define the Thistle Cafe experience. As one patron noted, "it was the best Scottish Pie and Haggis I’ve ever had," while another remarked on the quick service and large portion sizes. This feedback resonates with the overall mission of Thistle Cafe: to deliver homestyle meals that feel personal and authentic, even amidst the tourist crowds.
The cafe's commitment to providing fresh, made-to-order dishes shines through in every order, ensuring that each meal is not only delicious but also freshly prepared. Whether you're stopping in for a heartwarming cappuccino, like a recent visitor who praised the helpful staff, or you’re enjoying the daily cake special, there's a sense of community that makes this cafe feel like a home away from home.
Thistle Cafe stands out not only for its exceptional food but also for its inviting atmosphere. As proclaimed by satisfied customers, it's a place where you can escape the chaotic energy of Edinburgh and enjoy a meal that stays true to Scottish roots. If you find yourself on the Royal Mile, take a moment to step away from the crowds and treat yourself to the culinary delights that await you at Thistle Cafe. You won’t be disappointed.