Cafés · Edinburgh
Tucked into a church hall and easy to miss from the street, this is the kind of weekday spot parents come back to for years. The play area is the draw — rocking horses, play kitchens and enough toys to buy you a proper cuppa and a chat — though watch the bump in the flooring near it, which catches wobbly new walkers. Buggy access, high chairs and a kids' menu are all sorted, and they'll do a babyccino when you've hit your caffeine limit. Food is cooked to order, cheap and generous, with gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian handled without fuss; the lemon drizzle cake and Med veg soup get particular praise. Staff are warm with all ages. One snag: cooking to order means it can be slow, so don't come when everyone's already hungry.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
A vegetarian cafe and deli in Edinburgh, mid-priced and well-rated, with an all-veggie menu that suits mixed family diets.
A laid-back Edinburgh coffee spot with outdoor seating, vegan options, and artisan brews — handy for a family pit stop.
A relaxed Swedish bakery café by the Meadows with high chairs, vegan options and outdoor seating for easy family coffee stops.