Seemor
Blank Street CoffeeBWorth Trying
78 Princes St., Edinburgh EH2 2ER
· Coffee shop
· 4.7/5 Google (459 reviews)
Takeout
A buzzy Princes Street coffee stop known for fast, friendly service and sweet-leaning signature matchas, best for takeaway rather than lingering.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Blank Street Coffee delivers reliable quality through exceptional service friendliness and impressive speed that keeps Princes Street queues moving efficiently. Strong food quality in signature matchas and cookies appeals to a devoted following, though the sweet-leaning flavor profile and cramped seating limit broader appeal. A solid neighborhood cafe that excels at what it does—quick, friendly service with playful signatures—but lacks the ambiance or culinary distinction for higher recognition.
Restaurant Summary
On Princes Street the energy is fast and friendly—queues move quickly, drinks land in your hand in minutes, and staff are consistently warm even at peak. A common refrain: "Line flew by and my drink was out fast, but seating was tight." Expect a compact, minimalist room with limited seating, best for a quick pause or a takeaway stroll through the gardens. The culinary approach leans creative and sweet-leaning rather than purist. Signature matchas and lattes (think blueberry, strawberry shortcake, salted pistachio) deliver dessert-like flavors over intense tea or espresso bite. The culinary approach leans contemporary flavored-cafe: playful blends on a classic coffee-and-matcha base, not high-wire theatrics. If you adore bold, grassy matcha or ultra-strong coffee, ask for tweaks or choose classics; if you enjoy crowd-pleasing flavors, you will likely be happy with the signature lineup. Families will find the cookies and sweet signatures easy wins for kids, and prices stay gentle. That said, space is tight, seats are scarce, and there is no formal kids menu. For picky eaters, the classics (hot chocolate, latte, flat white) are safer bets than the more adventurous matchas, which some find too sweet.
At a Glance
- Speedy service that keeps queues moving
- Friendly baristas with helpful recommendations
- Fun signature matchas and excellent cookies
- Very limited seating and cramped layout
- Sweet-leaning drinks with light matcha intensity for some palates
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- signature_matcha_lineup
- speedy_queue_management
- central_princes_st_location
What People Love
- Warm, upbeat staff that brighten rushed visits
- Playful signature flavors that taste like a treat
- Queue efficiency even at peak times
- Soft-centered cookies that pair perfectly with drinks
Points of Concern
- Space is cramped with limited seating; not ideal for lingering or groups
- Flavored matchas can be very sweet with lighter tea character
- Iced signatures can feel over-iced, reducing drink volume
- Review patterns show occasional temperature or mixing inconsistencies during busy rushes
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£8-£12 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- If sweetness is a concern, start with the classic Matcha Latte (£3.50-£3.90) before trying signatures.
- Coffee traditionalists may prefer a Flat White or Americano (£2.90-£3.90) over signature lattes.
- Pair a mid-priced drink (£3.50-£4.50) with a cookie for a satisfying light stop under £9.
Perfect For
- A quick caffeine stop on Princes Street
- Sweet-leaning matcha or latte cravings
- Grab-and-go before sightseeing or commuting
- A treat break for cookie lovers
Location Insights
Area: High-footfall retail corridor with locals, commuters, and tourists; fast-moving and convenience-driven.
Safety: Well-trafficked main street with strong visibility and lighting; typical city-center bustle.
Nearby: Directly on Princes Street near shops and gardens; heavy tourist flow and festival surges during Fringe.
Princes StreetPrinces Street is Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, bustling with visitors and locals alike. The dining scene here ranges from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, catering to a diverse crowd including tourists exploring the city and professionals working nearby. The area is lively, accessible, and considered safe, with a strong emphasis on retail and hospitality.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–20:00
Tuesday07:00–20:00
Wednesday07:00–20:00
Thursday07:00–20:00
Friday07:00–20:00
Saturday08:00–20:00
Sunday08:00–19:00
Available: Takeout
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