The City Cafe

Restaurant | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom

American diner style restaurant

The restaurant "The City Cafe" in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a true highlight for lovers of American diner flair and hearty cuisine. Established as an institution in the city since the 1980s, this venue attracts both locals and tourists with its retro charm. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it offers a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for escaping the bustling activity of the Scottish capital. "The City Cafe" combines the nostalgia of a classic diner with a modern twist and is known for its versatility, ranging from breakfast to cocktails.

Scottish breakfast in café

The interior is an essential part of the experience. With its red-and-white vinyl seats, chrome accents, and a jukebox providing musical accompaniment, it transports guests directly into the world of an American diner from the 1950s. The walls are decorated with vintage posters and photos, giving the space a vibrant yet cozy touch. There are both intimate seating areas for smaller groups and larger tables for social gatherings. Especially in the morning hours, the cafe fills up with guests who appreciate the laid-back ambiance and generous portions.

Retro café with cocktails

The kitchen of "The City Cafe" is designed to offer something for every taste, focusing on hearty, satisfying dishes. A definite highlight is the "Full Scottish Breakfast," served with haggis, black pudding, and potato scones – a tribute to Scottish tradition, refined with an American touch. For those who prefer something sweet, the "Belgian Waffles" with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup are a delightful treat with their fluffy texture. The "Ultimate Burger Challenge" is also worth mentioning: a gigantic burger that invites the brave to earn a spot on the "Wall of Fame" if they can eat it all. Desserts, such as creamy milkshakes with various toppings, are another crowd-pleaser that rounds out the offerings.

Vintage diner atmosphere edinburgh

The drink selection is equally impressive and diverse. The cafe takes pride in its handmade milkshakes, available in classic flavors like chocolate or strawberry, often topped with whipped cream. For those looking for something stronger, there is a selection of cocktails ranging from fruity creations to bold classics – the "Earl Grey Mojito" stands out with its unusual tea flavor. Additionally, local beers and a solid wine list perfectly complement the meals. Particularly convenient: many breakfast dishes come with free refills of tea or coffee, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Hearty dishes in restaurant

"The City Cafe" is more than just a restaurant – it is a place for experiences. It entices with challenges like the burger competition but also offers space for relaxed meetings with friends or family. The service is described as friendly and attentive, with staff often striving to provide guests with an authentic diner feel. The venue is also known for its flexibility: whether it’s a quick snack, an extensive breakfast, or an evening with drinks – everyone will find something suitable here.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
19 Blair St
EH1 1QR Edinburgh

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday9:00 - 0:00
Monday9:00 - 0:00
Tuesday9:00 - 0:00
Wednesday9:00 - 0:00
Thursday9:00 - 0:00
Friday9:00 - 1:00
Saturday9:00 - 1:00

Reviews

2593 Reviews

Alanna Tenney
06.03.2025

Large portions, good prices and quick service. Great cappuccino as well!
Cory Graham
02.03.2025

The City Cafe is one of my favourite places to visit and has been since the mid 90's whether it's for food or just a quick drink when I'm in the area. Staff are always welcoming and friendly.
David Wren
29.09.2021

Highly recommended. Love it. Been going there since before most of the current staff were born....
e o
01.03.2025

God mat og drikke. God service og veldig kule american-diner inspirerte lokaler.
Thomas Prentice
23.02.2025

The food was so so so good I would definitely come here again very clean place nice staff lovely attitude
Michal Bélik
23.02.2025

Jedlo neodpovedalo cene ktorú sme za neho dali, obsluha zabudla na kávu ktorá bola v objednávke , čašníci vyzerali ze majú chaos co sa kde deje
Suzanne Lopes da Silva
01.02.2025

Loved it there, staff really friendly, great atmosphere too. Would definitely recommend.
Gabrielle Ajorque
31.01.2025

My friends and I had the best time doing karaoke there! Harmony and Agnes were the sweetest and nicest team we could have hoped for. Great service and overall very enjoyable atmosphere!
Aryan Dhayal
26.01.2025

Overall the experience was nice but staff was not bothered at all with customers
Jacson lopes da silva
23.01.2025

Absolutely amazing place, friendly staff, food 100% delicious 😋
Tom mcc
13.02.2022

Great breakfast, the boozy shakes are worth it. The full Scottish breakfast was beautiful.
Cathy Hills
18.01.2025

I love this cafe. The staff are so pleasant and the food is great. A lovely place to go.
paul robertson
18.01.2025

Great breakfast, fresh cooked and hot. Great friendly service, great atmosphere highly recommended
Daisy Chamberlain
12.01.2025

All round amazing experience! The food was very good (although I wish they did American pancakes) and the atmosphere was incredible, really felt like we were in American!! It was so good we went twice whilst in Edinburgh!
Aleyna Su
11.01.2025

My favorite place to eat when i visit Edinburgh. The food is lovely.
Jesus Chueca
11.01.2025

Restaurante que sirve contundentes desayunos escoceses durante todo el día. Decorado al estilo americano con muchos detalles. Buen servicio, buenos precios y buena comida. A 30 segundos de la Royal Mile.

 

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