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Tucked away on the winding Cockburn Street near the Royal Mile, Southern Cross Cafe is a staple for those exploring Edinburgh's Old Town. The cafe is celebrated for its commitment to local Scottish produce, serving up substantial traditional breakfasts and fluffy blueberry pancakes that draw a steady crowd. Beyond the morning rush, it transforms into a peaceful retreat for afternoon tea, featuring rare-find scones served with clotted cream and a variety of artisanal cakes. With a cozy interior and additional seating upstairs, it offers a warm, friendly environment where staff are known to share local travel tips with visitors.
Traditional full Scottish breakfast with generous portions.
Homemade scones served with authentic clotted cream.
Extensive selection of cakes and bakery items.
Additional seating available on the upper floor.
Prime location on the scenic Cockburn Street.
Southern Cross Cafe is highly regarded for its warm hospitality and consistent food quality, earning a 4.5-star rating from thousands of visitors. Reviewers frequently praise the hearty and delicious full Scottish breakfast and the perfectly made blueberry pancakes. The bakery selection is a major draw, with the scones and clotted cream being singled out as a rare and authentic highlight in Edinburgh. Guests appreciate the cozy and welcoming vibe, often noting that the service is friendly and the staff are happy to provide local recommendations. While the cafe is very popular and can get busy, the availability of upstairs seating helps accommodate the steady flow of customers. Overall, it is described as a small gem that offers a reliable and charming experience for both breakfast and lunch.
