Deacon's House Cafe
About This Spot
Step inside Deacon’s House Cafe and you’re immediately wrapped in a quietly charming atmosphere where history gently lingers alongside the soft clink of cups and the murmur of pleasant conversation. Nestled on Edinburgh’s storied Lawnmarket, this cozy coffee shop and breakfast haven offers an inviting pause from the city’s bustling rhythm, encouraging visitors to slow down and savor the moment.
The space feels both warmly intimate and thoughtfully lived-in, with its quaint, historic corners making it clear this is a place that values heritage as much as hospitality. Whether you find a seat by the window overlooking the Royal Mile or settle into the snug main dining area, there’s a comforting sense of familiarity here. And for those unpredictable Scottish showers, a clever retractable awning extends the welcome outdoors, blending the charm of alfresco dining with the practicality of shelter.
Deacon’s House Cafe gracefully balances a breakfast and tea house tradition with modern touches. The kitchen’s offerings are uncomplicated but sincerely crafted—from richly creamy Scottish breakfasts to flaky pastries and lovingly prepared sandwiches that capture the heart of local flavors. Each cup of coffee or tea feels like a gentle ritual, perfectly matched to moments spent here, whether you’re sharing a quiet conversation or stealing a peaceful break alone. The care put into homemade scones and cakes gives the menu a personal touch, making it hard not to linger over a second helping.
What makes the experience linger beyond the food and drink is the genuine kindness woven into the service—friendly faces who notice small details and quietly ensure your visit feels considered and cared for. This understated attentiveness, combined with the cafe’s historic character and the easy, unhurried mood of the space, creates a refuge on one of Edinburgh’s busiest streets. It’s a perfect spot to discover small, joyful moments grounded in local tradition and everyday warmth.
What’s Available Here
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Outdoor seating
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On-site services
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Great coffee
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Great dessert
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Great tea selection
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Coffee
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Free water refills
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Healthy options
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Organic dishes
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Prepared foods
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Spirits
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Vegan options
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Vegetarian options
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Wine
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Romantic
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Trendy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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University students
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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Parking
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Dogs allowed
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Dogs allowed inside
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Dogs allowed outside
Location & Hours
| Monday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Friday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM |
Daniela Ghirasin 29 Dec 2025
A very cute, historic place. I had a Brodie’s cocoa which was absolutely delicious. Perfect spot for a quick drink and for admiring the inside.
Dustin Morgan 10 Dec 2025
Best scones I've ever had! Picturesque counterserve cafe is tucked away on the royal mile with a nice outdoor seating area (bonus for having a retractable awning if it rains!), in addition to the main dining room. We had brunch with sandwiches, soup, and cream tea with fruit scone. Everything was amazing. Highly recommend, even if there's a wait during the festival.
Andreas Schliack 06 Nov 2025
Perfect and nice Cafe ….. great cakes and drinks.. we were here on saturday 12 o clock. we had to wait to become a table .. sitting in and outside possible. nice and friendly persons .. all cakes are homemade …. very very nice place to have a break
Natasha Syed 29 Oct 2025
Beautiful sitting. Delicious scones. Exceptional service. I went to enjoy tea and a scone. I asked for extra warm tea, which they kindly provided. They kindly replaced my half eaten scone after it fell, without asking or charge. I hope to visit again and fully recommend a visit to whoever is in the city.
Josephine Wigham 21 Oct 2025
This café has delicious lunch options. I ordered the salmon quiche, and my mum had the haggis toastie. Both dishes were really good. The service is great too. I love the history behind this café—it makes it feel special! I would definitely recommend it and come again.
Calla 11 Oct 2025
Been here 5 times in the 2 visits I’ve had to Edinburgh - convenient location (right off the royal mile) whilst being a little bit back from the traffic of people. Usually a line at lunch time but it moves quickly. Interior is gorgeous and provides more of an experience than just a cafe! Food is delicious - I tried their paninis, scones & breakfast (my favourite is their eggplant & hummus panini). Would highly recommend this spot if you’re heading to Edinburgh!
Maegan 01 Oct 2025
This is one of my favorite places to eat in Edinburgh. I have recommended this to a lot of friends who have traveled there and they end up loving it just as much as I do. I planned a whole family vacation and made sure that when I came back, I brought my entire family here. Pancakes are the best pancakes I’ve ever had in my entire life. If you eat here, please please try the pancakes. Highly recommend. Great location right on the Royal Mile surrounded by a ton of tourist shops and the castle. It does get quite busy so I do suggest getting here early as it opens. The staff is super friendly and helpful. It is a smaller café, but it’s absolutely darling. My absolute favorite place to eat in Scotland.
Nadia Alshahrani 15 Sep 2025
I’m in love with this place. The food, service and atmosphere were all very very good. The whole experience was heartwarming. Lovely “wee” cafe that offers yummy food with a sprinkle of history ;) P. S. you must try the carrot cake we finished it before I got the chance to take a photo of it Highly recommended