Williams and Johnson Coffee Co.

Editor's Review

If you head down to The Shore one of the first things you’ll notice is the old Leith Custom House, evidence of the area’s previous life as one of the busiest ports and trading hubs in Europe. Since the 1980s, the building has been used as storage for the National Museum of Scotland, but since being bought by City of Edinburgh Council in 2015 it has begun to transform into a vibrant creative hub, and home to Williams & Johnson – a very exciting roastery and cafe.

The cafe itself sits in a small, cute cul-de-sac just behind the main drag of Commercial Street. The upstairs hot-desks and nearby offices create a low hum of activity that gives it the feel of a busy, creative workspace  somewhere to take a book or laptop and sit for a decent amount of time. Food options include bagels, cake (some gluten-free), and vegetarian options.

First and foremost, Williams & Johnson is a roastery, and their ambitions are grand – you’re beginning to see their coffee crop up more and more in independents across town – and you can see why. They are very clear about the kind of coffee they want – lush, fruity, fresh tasting brews from the more tropical, South American climates. In addition, a commitment to locally sourced food and drink options – including soft drinks from Bon Accord, one of Scotland’s oldest soft drinks manufacturers that was recently revived by the great-great granddaughter of the man who founded the company back in 1909 – is a testament to how rooted in Scottish culture they want to be. A new and exciting addition to Edinburgh’s coffee scene.

Review: Harry Harris

Image courtesy of the venue

Cafe Features

Pets Allowed

Wifi

Loose Leaf Tea

Outdoor Seats

Toilets

Buy Beans

Table Seating

Coffee + Drinks

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