With storms approaching (both literally and in the form of midterms), we’re all beginning to pine for a cosy pumpkin spice. Yet, whilst this sweet, ‘autumn in a cup’ coffee is a staple for Edinburgh in October, we encourage you to start exploring the city’s lesser known coffee corners to find yourself a new, go-to order.
Here’s your guide to the best spots for a sensationally spooky beverage, with a few sweet treats here and there.
Love, Peace & Coffee
As the name suggests, this Clerk Street gem sets the perfect, peaceful atmosphere for you and a friend to enjoy the first autumnal drink of the season.
Their recently released specials menu includes Alice in Autumnland a wonderful pumpkin spice matcha (for those who haven’t quite hopped off the green and grassy train) and Tess’s Autumn Treasure: a Biscoff mocha!
For those of you still clinging to the last rays of Scottish sunlight (seriously, where did you find it?), Love Peace Coffee’s iced coconut chai is great for combining refreshment with the warmth of autumnal traditions.
The Black Cat
Ditch your usual caffeine hit for a different kick this October. The Black Cat, an often underrated yet aptly named Halloween location, is celebrating the season with a Boozy Hot Chocolate.
Expertly made with Black Bull whisky, this spin on the classic hot chocolate is sure to get you in the mood for spooky season. Just don’t try this one if you have lecture looming at 1pm.
Fortuna Coffee Bar
Fortuna Coffee’s TikTok dares you to find a café more excited about Halloween, making it the perfectly decorated backdrop for your snug coffee dates.
The star of their show is a new maple, cinnamon & ginger latte – served with whipped cream and cinnamon crunch!
Available from 4 October, this seasonal special is not one to miss.
Zebra Coffee Co
Skip Blank Street and try this ‘Bank Street’ favourite when you’re next craving the caffeine. Zebra Coffee is for those of us who love a sweet treat to pair with our even sweeter beverage.
Despite a mocha being my go-to, there is no bias in recommending their new pumpkin variant – the perfect chocolatey treat.
And with spooky chocolate chip cookies (and a range of other stuffed delicacies) on offer, what’s not to love?
Photo by Heidi Kaden on Unsplash