Sometimes the cafés you discover by chance end up becoming your favourite. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the usual coffee spots, just off the Meadows, is Kate’s. A place that feels like a warm hug and one that invites you to slow down and forget about the busy world outside for a bit. With its cosy atmosphere, delicious locally roasted Santu coffee, and tempting homemade delights, Kate’s is the perfect haven from the crisp autumn chill.
The baking really takes the centre stage. Embracing the flavours and aromas of the season, Kate’s brings autumn to life through the warming notes of chai and pumpkin spice, earthy cardamom and ginger, alongside the sweetness of apples and plums. Seasonal treats, homemade jams, and local Scottish produce – what’s not to love? Together, these make even a simple coffee break feel like something a little more indulgent. Whether it’s a cardamom hot chocolate, or classic desserts elevated with inventive flavour pairings, Kate’s offers plenty of reasons to return.
Yet what makes this cafe truly special is its atmosphere. On a golden, autumn morning, with sunlight glimmering through the amber trees, I decided there was no better way to start the day than with coffee and a slice of cake. Wonderfully fragrant and delicately spiced, the cake’s aromatic ginger notes cut through the treacly sweetness, making it an ideal accompaniment to the velvety cappuccino. I settled into a peaceful spot by the window and discovered Edinburgh Seasons, a guide celebrating the city’s charm throughout the year, resting on the table alongside a few other books. I found myself flicking through its pages, noting down places to visit between coffee sips and moments spent people-watching – one of my favourite past times.
Since opening its doors in 2021, Kate’s has become a charming find in Edinburgh’s coffee scene. Truly a splendid way to start your weekend, or any day of the week, but do keep in mind that they’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
More than just a place to have your daily caffeine fix, Kate’s is a delightful place to savour the season, one slow autumn morning at a time, earning a well-deserved five stars out of five.
Photos supplied by Afsaneh Afdjei for The Student
