Andrew Girdwood
Latest Reviews
Tasty Buns
Don't let the name fool you – Tasty Buns Bakery is the REAL DEAL.
Delicious sweet and savoury treats? All day long! Warm, inviting cafe space with way more room than you'd expect? It's like a hidden oasis! Staff that make you feel like a regular, even on your first visit? Absolutely their superpower! This place is what Edinburgh's food scene is all about.
I love how Tasty Buns is unpretentious. It's all about the food, the friendly vibe, and giving you that boost you need in the middle of a busy day. The cakes and baked goodies are the obvious stars, but don't sleep on their coffee – pairs perfectly with a brownie or one of those giant cookies.
Big respect to the staff. Baking ain't easy, especially right now, but they always have a smile on their faces.
I've been a customer when Tasty Buns has had a pop-up at a local event, I've been a bespoke/online order customer, and I've been the store. Never had a bad experience; always had good food.
Special note: If you've got a sweet tooth, this place is dangerous. If you like supporting local businesses, it's mandatory. If you need a spot to catch your breath during the Edinburgh madness, look no further! Tasty Buns delivers on all fronts, and those buns...well, the name doesn't lie. Get in there and taste for yourself!
Delicious sweet and savoury treats? All day long! Warm, inviting cafe space with way more room than you'd expect? It's like a hidden oasis! Staff that make you feel like a regular, even on your first visit? Absolutely their superpower! This place is what Edinburgh's food scene is all about.
I love how Tasty Buns is unpretentious. It's all about the food, the friendly vibe, and giving you that boost you need in the middle of a busy day. The cakes and baked goodies are the obvious stars, but don't sleep on their coffee – pairs perfectly with a brownie or one of those giant cookies.
Big respect to the staff. Baking ain't easy, especially right now, but they always have a smile on their faces.
I've been a customer when Tasty Buns has had a pop-up at a local event, I've been a bespoke/online order customer, and I've been the store. Never had a bad experience; always had good food.
Special note: If you've got a sweet tooth, this place is dangerous. If you like supporting local businesses, it's mandatory. If you need a spot to catch your breath during the Edinburgh madness, look no further! Tasty Buns delivers on all fronts, and those buns...well, the name doesn't lie. Get in there and taste for yourself!
Fortitude Coffee
Petite and perfect unless steps are a challenge for you as there's no other way up.
The centre of town feels dominated by huge franchise coffee shops but look around and you'll find indie darlings like Fortitude. I know there are now several Fortitude cafes but it feels and acts indie to me.
I ventured up those stairs because Fortitude was taking part in the charity 358 rally of local eateries and I wanted to support. I also wanted power for my tech and was pleased to see some small one and two people tables inside and some power outlets.
A friendly greeting welcomed me inside, my order swiftly taken, table wiped clear and I was comfortable. The coffee arrived slightly later and was delicious.
I didn't try and food and I think there's light baking and lunch on offer but, gosh, that coffee. Friendly staff make a difference but Tell Friends About It coffee is a delight.
The presentation was delightful too. A petite mug, no handle, of near perfect brew. The lack of a coffee mug handle may be a safety and accessibility challenge to some, so please take note, but for my arthritis it's a blessing. It means I can wrap my hands comfortably around the cup.
You can buy bags of beans here, and I wish I had. I thought I was at carrying capacity at the time but regret being so timid. Oh well, that's an excuse to go back even though this York Place corner is a little off my usual beaten path.
The centre of town feels dominated by huge franchise coffee shops but look around and you'll find indie darlings like Fortitude. I know there are now several Fortitude cafes but it feels and acts indie to me.
I ventured up those stairs because Fortitude was taking part in the charity 358 rally of local eateries and I wanted to support. I also wanted power for my tech and was pleased to see some small one and two people tables inside and some power outlets.
A friendly greeting welcomed me inside, my order swiftly taken, table wiped clear and I was comfortable. The coffee arrived slightly later and was delicious.
I didn't try and food and I think there's light baking and lunch on offer but, gosh, that coffee. Friendly staff make a difference but Tell Friends About It coffee is a delight.
The presentation was delightful too. A petite mug, no handle, of near perfect brew. The lack of a coffee mug handle may be a safety and accessibility challenge to some, so please take note, but for my arthritis it's a blessing. It means I can wrap my hands comfortably around the cup.
You can buy bags of beans here, and I wish I had. I thought I was at carrying capacity at the time but regret being so timid. Oh well, that's an excuse to go back even though this York Place corner is a little off my usual beaten path.