Seemor
Room Rumours CoffeeB-Worth Trying
Arch 13, 25 E Market St, Edinburgh EH8 8FS
· Bakery, Coffee shop, Cafe
· 4.8/5 Google (1025 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Exceptional specialty coffee and standout pastries in a tiny archway cafe near Waverley; go early, expect limited seating, and choose filter or batch brews for best results.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Room Rumours Coffee delivers excellent filter and batch brew coffee with rotating specialty roasters, supported by warm, knowledgeable staff and characterful arched setting near Waverley. However, inconsistent pastry freshness and occasional temperature issues alongside severely limited seating that often feels cramped prevent a higher grade—this is a destination for coffee enthusiasts willing to grab and go, not a comfortable lingering cafe.
Restaurant Summary
Under the Market Street arches, this tiny cafe feels cozy and well-loved. The counter is moments from Waverley, the window perch is prized, and staff are often described as warm and welcoming. One traveler put it well: "We kept coming back every day for the coffee and the kindness." Space is tight, so many grab pastries to go and wander to the gardens. The culinary approach leans specialty rather than flashy, with rotating roasters, clean filter cups, and a few creative drinks like a jasmine latte. Donuts get raves for pillowy texture and inventive flavors, while cinnamon buns divide opinion: delicious for many, a bit dry for some if you miss peak freshness. If you care about coffee clarity, choose batch or filter and expect quality ingredients at fair prices for the area. Families will find plenty of sweet comforts—mini donuts, brownies, and hot chocolate—though the room is very small and not ideal for strollers or spreading out. No kids menu per se, but simple bakes and milk-based drinks suit younger palates; consider takeaway to nearby Princes Street Gardens for easier seating.
At a Glance
- Standout filter/batch brew with rotating specialty roasters
- Excellent donuts and unique specialty drinks like jasmine latte
- Very limited seating; often full and not ideal for groups
- Pastry freshness and milk temperature can vary outside peak times
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff with welcoming vibe
What Sets It Apart
- rotating_specialty_roasters
- mini_donuts_option
- characterful_arch_location
What People Love
- Clean, nuanced filter coffee from rotating roasters
- Pillowy donuts with changing flavors
- Welcoming service that remembers guests
- Cozy archway setting that feels tucked-away but central
Points of Concern
- Seating is very limited; plan for takeaway during peak hours
- Cinnamon buns and some pastries can be dry if not fresh from batch
- Milk temperature and hot chocolate quality mixed across reviews
- Laptop time limits reported; not ideal for long work sessions
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£10-16 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on reviews only: prioritize filter or batch brew; choose donuts earlier in the day; confirm specialty items like borek are available before committing to dine-in
Perfect For
- A quick quality coffee before or after Waverley trains
- Pastry-and-coffee stroll to Princes Street Gardens
- Solo perch at the window with a filter
- Travelers seeking a local-feel cafe near the Royal Mile
Location Insights
Area: Historic archway along East Market Street by Old Town; heavy foot traffic from commuters and visitors, indie food and drink vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, busy during day and early evening; well-lit commercial corridor near station.
Nearby: Steps from Waverley Station, Royal Mile, and Market Street arches; near Princes Street Gardens for takeaway enjoyment.
CanongateCanongate is a lively neighborhood with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. It hosts a variety of dining options ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to contemporary eateries, attracting both visitors exploring the Royal Mile and locals enjoying casual dining. The area is pedestrian-friendly and culturally rich, with a social atmosphere that balances tourism with community life.
East Market Street ArchesThe arches along East Market Street have been revitalized into a cluster of independent restaurants and bars, creating a hip and informal dining enclave. This micro-neighborhood is known for its eclectic food offerings and relaxed vibe, popular among locals looking for innovative cuisine in a unique setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–16:30
Tuesday08:00–16:30
Wednesday08:00–16:30
Thursday08:00–16:30
Friday08:00–16:30
Saturday08:00–16:30
Sunday08:00–16:30
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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