Café · Edinburgh
Tucked along Victoria Street below the castle, this small French café is a genuinely restful stop after a morning of walking small legs around the Old Town. It's roomier and calmer than the packed places down in the Grassmarket, with a few pavement tables outside if you'd rather park the pram beside you in the sun. Breakfast and lunch are both strong — filling baguette combos, toasties with generous portions, shakshuka, rich soup, and a fresh-squeezed orange juice pressed in front of you that children tend to find fascinating. The pastries and macarons are beautiful, and there's a full separate gluten-free menu including patisserie, which is rare. Staff are warm and good-humoured with everyone. Prices are reasonable, though it's intimate enough that a busy lunchtime fills it quickly. One parent calls the black coffee "black gold".
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.
Early-opening castle-side café doing a hearty Scottish breakfast and fruit-topped porridge — small and snug, but quick, warm and good value.
A much-loved Edinburgh café with high chairs and vegan options, rated 4.9 by over 1,150 happy visitors.
A characterful Edinburgh pub with traditional Scottish music, a big whisky menu and outdoor seating for families.