Seemor
Black Sheep CoffeeC+Worth Trying
24-25 Princes St., Edinburgh EH2 2AN
· Coffee shop, Cafe
· 4.6/5 Google (1616 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Busy Princes Street coffee stop with creative lattes and waffles, fast kiosk ordering, friendly staff, but inconsistent drinks, occasional service lapses, and unreliable Wi‑Fi.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Black Sheep Coffee excels with creative coffee drinks and Norwegian waffles and earns praise for friendly, accommodating staff, but inconsistent drink quality during busy periods and crowding at peak times limit its appeal. The prime Princes Street location makes it a practical pit stop rather than a destination cafe, delivering solid value for a quick caffeine fix before the train.
Restaurant Summary
Right on Princes Street, this cafe hums with busy central energy and big windows that frame the rush to Waverley. Staff get singled out by name for kindness, and one guest raved that a barista "made an off-menu drink perfectly." Expect kiosks up front, quick counter action, and seating that fills at peaks; it is a practical pit stop more than a linger-all-day den. The cooking leans coffeehouse comfort with creative twists—think pistachio or honey cardamom lattes, ube or blueberry matcha, and Norwegian waffles. The approach feels elevated-traditional with playful flavors: tasty when dialed in, though a few guests found drinks watery or overly sweet. If you like variety and do not mind ordering on screens, it is ideal for a quick bite and caffeine before the train. Families fare well here thanks to babyccino and sweet waffles, plus hot chocolate and simple toasties. The menu lists plant milks and some veg options, though gluten-free food is limited beyond fruit and drinks. Crowds can make seating tight and waits longer, so parents may prefer off-peak visits for a smoother stop.
At a Glance
- Creative latte lineup and solid espresso options
- Norwegian waffles and toasties make for easy light meals
- Prime location near Waverley with fast kiosk ordering
- Inconsistent drink quality at busy times
- Wi‑Fi reliability and occasional service brusqueness
- Peak-time congestion can cause 15-30 minute waits
What Sets It Apart
- creative_matcha_series
- norwegian_waffles
- prime_station_proximity
- self_service_kiosks
What People Love
- Friendly baristas who go the extra mile
- Playful matcha and latte flavors
- Window seats with city views
- Fast, convenient ordering when time is tight
Points of Concern
- Drink consistency varies: some report watery or bitter coffee, especially at peaks
- Kiosk-first ordering frustrates those who prefer table service
- Wi‑Fi is unreliable per multiple reports
- Crowding at the pickup zone leads to slow handoffs and standing-room congestion
- Review patterns show signs of variability by shift and time of day which may not reflect every visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost£11-16 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose a classic espresso drink (£2.79-£4.89) if creative lattes trend too sweet for you
- Pair a toastie (£5.29) with a batch brew (£2.79-£3.29) for a value combo under £10
- For dairy-free, opt for free oat milk and fruit salad (£3.49) or teas (£2.79)
Perfect For
- Pre-train caffeine and snack stop
- Casual breakfast with sweet waffles
- Solo laptop session when off-peak
- Quick family treat break
Location Insights
Area: Central retail corridor with heavy footfall, a mix of commuters, shoppers, and visitors; fast-paced and convenience-driven.
Safety: Busy and well-patrolled shopping artery; typical city-center petty-theft awareness advisable; high foot traffic by day and early evening.
Nearby: Opposite/near Waverley rail station, department stores, hotels, and major bus/tram routes; ample tourist draw and commuter flow.
Princes StreetPrinces Street is Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, lined with department stores, restaurants, and cafes. The dining scene caters to a broad audience, from casual eateries to more refined establishments, attracting visitors and locals alike in a bustling, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
East Princes Street GardensThis micro-area near Princes Street Gardens offers scenic views and a relaxed environment, with nearby dining options that often emphasize casual and outdoor-friendly experiences, popular during warmer months.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday06:30–19:00
Tuesday06:30–19:00
Wednesday06:30–19:00
Thursday06:30–19:00
Friday06:30–19:00
Saturday06:30–19:00
Sunday07:00–19:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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