Café · Edinburgh
A small city-centre spot that Edinburgh families slot into a morning walk rather than settle in for hours — expect a busy breakfast rush, a handful of tables and a bar with narrow wooden stools, so a pram takes some manoeuvring. The bagels are the reason to come: cream cheese, bacon and chilli jam turns up in visitor accounts again and again, with one family returning three mornings running, and the cabinet food, soups and pastries hold up too. Coffee is properly good and prices are fair for the area. There's a kids' menu, high chairs and a few outdoor tables, plus a clean single-stall loo. Worth knowing: service can feel brisk and rule-bound at peak times — where you're allowed to sit is enforced — so quieter mid-morning visits with small children go better than a packed 9am.
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.
Hidden first-floor Chinese near St James Quarter with huge sharing portions, high chairs, a kids' menu and unusually patient, family-minded staff.
A lively Playhouse-side bar and grill with kids' menu, high chairs and warm staff — though portions are small and drinks pricey.
Lively Edinburgh brunch spot with generous portions, patient staff, window tables and a legendary sticky toffee pudding — expect a wait at weekends.