Mimi’s Bakehouse has become a staple in Edinburgh since 2019, and we noticed how they’ve perfected the comfort-bake-cafe vibe. 

We dove into their menu and came across a tantalising variety of treats, from classic cakes and signature cupcakes to those indulgent brownies and traybakes.

A neat touch is their adaptability—a fair number of offerings cater to vegan and gluten-free folks, which we’re always happy to see. We often note that the presentation and packaging exude attention to detail, making them perfect for gift-giving! 

Plus, we learnt that they’ve got this afternoon tea deal (that we were able to try!) with delicate scones and fluffy cupcakes—another way to make the afternoon sweeter!

However, a recurring observation from patrons is that while every bite is divine, the service could pick up its pace to match the quality of food. On the plus side, having the option to order online with UK-wide delivery is a game-changer. 

Warm hospitality and fresh delights

“The staff were welcoming and patient when we arrived. The food was amazing one of the best brunches I’ve had. We also managed to squeeze in an afternoon tea which was fresh home cooked scones. We got baked to take away and they too were really good. I would highly recommend this place.”

Rosie Clarke, Google Review

Great treats and friendly service

“As perfect as all the other Mimi’s Bakehouses’ are!

Friendly service, absolutely delicious food. I am Biscoff obsessed and their Banana Biscoff French Toast is a Biscoff lovers dream! Stuffed with gooey melted biscoff, and the French toast itself is as light as a feather.

Got a (rather large, which I’m happy about) slice of rainbow birthday cake to take away. All their cakes are seriously yummy – light and full of flavours.

Can’t wait to come back to this store for the French toast again!”

Isabella Millar, Google Review

Lannan Bakery opened its doors in July 2023 and has already made waves, even snagging the “Pastry Opening of the Year” award at La Liste’s 2024 Pastry Awards.

Their blend of classic viennoiseries, like buttery croissants or cardamom buns, combined with creative, seasonal baked experiments, was impressive. We could tell there’s a personal touch in every bite, and that’s probably why the place gets such a loyal crowd.

What we liked was the energy here—friendly service, a pet-friendly vibe, and of course, the cosy interior.

While Lannan doesn’t do pre-orders or deliveries, we did note a silver lining: this makes everything feel freshly made, highlighting the bakery’s “limited-run” philosophy.

However, if you’re not an early bird, you may miss out on some of their best-sellers. And since it’s a first-come, first-served basis, many patrons complain about the long queue most of the time. 

Consistently unique creations

“This is the best bakery in the UK. We are regulars and they often update their menu which is great. Everything tastes amazing, is original and never seen before in Edinburgh. the staff is always lovely.

It is pricey but completely worth it. Just be aware of the queue.”

Sarah Azouvi, Google Review

Masterfully crafted pastries and an inviting atmosphere

“These pastries are a bargain considering they are a work of art. Every single detail is so thought through and beautifully designed – both pastries and interior.

I can’t believe anyone has the audacity to criticise queuing for the crossaint equivalent to a Picasso – for only a couple extra quid compared to a Costa croissant!!!

These are a special treat made by true artists! I would wait hours for these.

The coffee was great, staff were brilliant & atmosphere was perfect.”

Christie Wilson, Google Review

When we went to Lovecrumbs, we immediately loved looking through their famous layer cakes, generously portioned and baked with an artisan touch. They’re a go-to for celebrations, but we saw plenty of patrons drop by for their cinnamon buns, brownies, and savoury focaccia. 

For anyone with dietary restrictions, they’ve got vegan options covered, which is a bonus for those looking for inclusive treats. Something else we noted is how much they focus on quality.

Their organic milk is sourced from a carbon-positive Ayrshire farm, and their coffee is roasted in collaboration with Papercup in Glasgow, although they don’t bake their bread.

Still, the warm, welcoming energy of the staff amplifies the experience, and the cafe is even pet-friendly! We also loved browsing their thoughtfully curated lifestyle products—everything from sustainable home goods to little joys you might need.

While the pre-order system is convenient, it could benefit from a slightly faster turnaround. Also, while the staff is friendly, the service can be a little on the slower side.

Cosy ambiance and delectable desserts

“This is a nice, cozy place with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends. I tried the chocolate cake, and it was perfectly balanced in sweetness. It paired really well with a cup of coffee. I would definitely recommend stopping by if you’re looking for a comfortable spot with great desserts.”

Jiwon Kokomong Kim, Google Review

Great drinks and satisfying pastries

“This place was pretty decent, it’s a nice little shop with a good-looking cake selection. Their drinks are beautifully made no matter what you get, and their croissants are huge and delicious. We got some kind of raspberry cake and a banana one and they were delicious.

Jonah Sperry, Google Review

The Pastry Section might feel compact at first glance, but it’s a bakery bursting with personality and plenty of heart. With their limited seating for just one or two people per table, it’s more of a cosy grab-and-go stop than a sit-down cafe.

Nevertheless, it’s earned its reputation as one of the go-to spots for baked goods in Edinburgh. Everything here is made in-house daily, from their perfectly chewy snickerdoodle cookies to the flaky cinnamon buns.

The lemon meringue tart was a standout for us—the balance of tangy and sweet flavours, paired with a silky texture, was just sublime. If you’ve got a special occasion, their bespoke cake service is worth checking out. 

The cakes are designed to your liking, using only high-quality, seasonal ingredients and zero preservatives. Customers have repeatedly raved about their attention to detail and the consistent quality of every order.

They’ve even thought about the environment, as seen in their simple yet sustainable packaging. 

Exceptional pastries and flavourful coffee

“We had just 1 pastry here (and coffees) – and it was awesome. The meringue is somewhere between a marshmallow and a meringue, and the tart itself was great – right amount of sweetness and lemon flavor, good pastry crust. Would get this again.

Their other offerings looked really delicious too. Coffee was good.

There’s a small amount of seating in store. We visited on a weekday after lunch and were able to find seats easily. But your experience might vary at different days / times.”

Nelson Lau, Google Review

Beautifully crafted cakes and warm service

“I’d had this little place starred on my map for a while now and the opportunity finally presented itself to visit recently. I was instantly attracted to the vast array of beautiful cakes lined up inside via the window so in I bobbed for a flat white and slice of pistachio, raspberry and white chocolate cake. It was heavenly sent, truly. Everything looked firmly delicious so I guess I’ll be back to try some more of their gorgeous goods next time I’m in town. A shoutout to the friendly staff too. I also really appreciated the cute take away coffee cups.”

Nicole Culbert, Google Review

Tasty Buns is a delightful little nook we stumbled upon, and it’s quickly become one of our favourite spots. The first thing you’ll notice here is the cosy ambience; it feels welcoming without being stuffy, complemented by charming linoprint that adds character to the space.

We’ve heard a lot about their Caramelised Belgian Waffle and those intriguing Chicken Salt Cookies, and after a taste, we understand the hype! Another thing that impressed us was their Tres Leches Cinnamon Buns—something you’d want to take home.

While their menu rotates often, there’s always the excitement of trying something new with each visit, though that does mean your favourites might be hit or miss. 

Although we appreciate that they offer at least one gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, or vegetarian option, they don’t specialise in dietary restrictions.

Oh, and there’s a 75-minute limit on seating, which some folks we’ve chatted with find a tad restrictive.

Irresistible daily bakes and desserts

“Best bakes in the burgh! With a fresh menu every day, this beautiful bunhouse turns out unmissable cakes, pavolvas, cannele, traybakes and more – don’t visit the city without dropping in for a sweet treat.”

Hannah Simpson, Google Review

Perfect spot for coffee and indulgent treats

“This is a great spot to rest your weary feet if you’ve been walking around all day and re-energize with really good coffee drinks, and delicious in house baked desserts. Sinful dessert.😉😋”

David Borgert, Google Review