Machina Espresso

Editor's Review

The original Machina Espresso on the west side of the Meadows in Tolcross is the equivalent of a hardware store for coffee afficionados. If you're a home brewer looking for kit, chances are you'll be able to find it at Machina — grinders, V60s, espresso machines, excellent beans, even spare parts if you know who to ask (try "the person behind the counter" first). The Machina brand means you know you're in safe hands. 

In contrast to their slightly busier Newington branch, there is a quieter, more serene vibe here. Plants and pale wood are dotted around the place, which actually stretches further than it seems from the outside, with a cosy nook at the back if you're looking to monopolise a plug socket for a while (they're less strict with their wi-fi allowance here too). Multiple serve options allow you to take advantage of a range of Machina's roasts, including those specially suited to non-dairy milks, which are increasingly found in Edinburgh and Glasgow's vegan joints. 

The serenity of the is in keeping with the area itself. The Meadows, a former loch, is one of the city's most beautiful spots, and the gateway to the southside's upmarket Morningside area. Slightly further away from the bluster of Lothian Road, Tolcross still boasts a number of old pubs, cocktail bars, restaraunts, as well as the Cameo Cinema and King's Theatre. Machina is a good nucleus for them all. 

Review: Harry Harris

Image courtesy of venue

Cafe Features

Wifi

Loose Leaf Tea

Toilets

Table Seating

Pets Allowed

Brunch/Lunch

Buy Beans

Coffee + Drinks

Iced Coffee

Filter Coffee

Decaf

Non Dairy