Back in the 1930s, dotted around the cobbled corners of Edinburgh’s streets,142 teal- coloured police boxes were introduced. Housing a singular officer, with a kettle and heater if lucky, they provided much needed protection and comfort to the city’s communities. Almost a century later and technology has lost the necessity of police boxes. However, they now provide personable outlets for creativity with entrepreneurial ventures running wild to transform these micro spaces. From coffee shops to cultural foods to community hubs, I have compiled a summary of the best Edinburgh police boxes for you to explore this autumn!
Bambi’s
An iconic student spot, the sunshine-yellow paintwork of Bambi’s makes it stand out from the stress-packed George Square, especially during Edinburgh’s dark winters. Despite its compact size, Bambi’s creates some of the most luscious coffees in Edinburgh- my personal favourite being the Biscoff Latte. For those dashing between classes and the library it provides an imperative shot of caffeine, with stamps to your loyalty card saving your future self money, right? Furthering the quintessential autumnal aesthetic, George Square Gardens act as an extension of Bambi’s, with its benches being perfect for reading a book or having a catch up while sipping your delightful drink. Missed breakfast? Why not treat yourself to a speciality bowl of porridge like banana and salted caramel?
Tupiniquim
Often challenging to locate in the UK, Tupiniquim provides a delicious introduction to Brazilian tapioca-based pancakes, serving up flavours varying from ‘Steak Pancake’ to ‘Banoffee Baileys’, and everything, or anything, in between. Easy to miss, Tupiniquim camouflages into its cosy natural haven at the entrance to the The Meadows, where aged cowering trees craft a satisfactorily crispy layer of leaves. While sitting on the gorgeous handmade benches, enjoy people-watching visitors and locals admiring The Meadows’ fiery autumnal colours, while musicians experiment with its piano shed faintly in the background.
Seoul Nibbles
Continuing on from the colourful terraces of Victoria Street, nestled at the top of Grassmarket lies an a portal into bustling Korean streets, as the Taegeukgi flag of South Korea proudly waves from Seoul Nibbles. On display are iconic corndogs and teokpoki spicy rice-cakes that trigger stomach rumbles no matter the time of day, and you won’t be disappointed since Seoul Nibbles serves up a taste sensation! My favourite is the buno-pang fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet bean paste, freshly baked for each customer with scales moulded to perfection.
Leith Walk Police Box
Offering a slightly different service, Leith Walk Police Box acts as a pop-up hub for the local community, supporting diverse events including the colourful Dia de Muertos last weekend as well as raising money for Ukraine. Most commonly, however, you’re greeted with delicious smells of autumnal bakes, particularly tempting for the rush of students heading home from a day of lectures. Be wary of the controversial Insect Café though, especially if you would rather avoid crickets in your brownie or grasshoppers in your spiced loaf cake.
Image provided by Alice Locker