Edinburgh loves a basement café, and Wellington is the archetype: a few stairs down from the corner of George Street and Hanover, a tiny room with just enough space for a serious espresso bar, a pastry and cake case, and the constant shuffle of locals. It’s compact, but there’s an easy rhythm: Order, step aside, and watch the bar pull shot after shot.
The house espresso runs on Square Mile with frequent guest shots; milk drinks come short and balanced, with the flat white as the move. Filter is simple and clean when on, but this is primarily an espresso joint. If you’re passing through New Town and want something dependable and bright, this is your spot.
Small basement, big character: fast espresso, outdoor perches, and scones that earn their reputation.
The food is straight-forward - the headline scones, and two or three high quality cake options, usually something along the lines of chunky victoria sponge slices or carrot cake. The scones are part of the reason I visit every time I'm in town. They're super chunky, soft inside, and the barristas will serve with a generous helping of clotted cream and jam. There is a high bar for scones in Scotland and honestly these are up there with the best I've had. Couple this with a solid coffee, and a trip to Wellington is more an experience than just grabbing a drink.
Service & Room
Service is brisk and friendly, the line moves, and you can usually find a ledge inside or outside table even at peak hours. Inside is maybe ten seats at most; on a bright day the steps and patio become a little amphitheatre for people‑watching George Street.
Those who know Edinburgh will know that the Summer gets BUSY. And this is the same with Wellington coffee, partly due to it's central location, so expect to duck and dive to get an outside seat in August.
Why It Matters
Wellington is an Edinburgh essential—no fuss, just skilled espresso and a signature bake. In a city full of excellent coffee, this is the reliable central stop I send people to when they ask for “great flat white and cake, quick in‑and‑out.”