Fortitude Coffee Photos
FORTITUDE COFFEE ATMOSPHERE
Recommended Reviews - Fortitude Coffee
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Five out of seven, on the Disloyal 7 Challenge. And, might I mention, this was the second of the Disloyal 7 coffee shops that we visited this morning, within the space of 30 minutes? I was fairly bouncing off the walls by the time we walked out of the shop. I'm sure this was the smallest of the 7 we visited. It was nice and toasty when we walked in, and every one of their three tables was taken. There were three barstools available, which we snaked once we placed our orders. Because we had just finished lattes at Lowdown, I went with a Cortado. My husband isn't phased by caffeine, so he ordered himself another latte. Despite the fact that we were seated next to the front door (and it was one of those bitingly cold mornings), we soon started to sweat and had to remove our jackets. Remember how I said it was toasty? Their heater was working *very well* in that small space! Still, the drinks came out quickly and were very good. The cortado was expertly made, and my husband truly enjoyed his latte. They seemed to have quite a few regulars coming through, as the guy working the counter (who was working out of the fourth barstool in the place) greeted several people by name. Friendly people and good coffee. Just a bit tight, so if you're hoping to stick around a bit and make yourself comfortable, you might want to have a backup plan in mind.
I can not recommend this coffee shop enough! Absolutely brilliant. I was recommended this shop by a friend in the states-that it is a must. The best hot chocolate in the world. I'm personally only a coffee drinker, but had to see what the craze was about for this hot chocolate. So great! You need it. The customer service was fantastic as well! The two women working were so nice and friendly-I had such a lovely chat with them. If your in Edinburgh you must stop by!
One day, when I'm a real adult, I'll learn how to hold my coffee. And by that, I mean my inability to process caffeine without seeming like I'm drunk. So this review isn't about the coffee at Fortitude - I promise to try it when I return though! We needed some space for a meeting and this place was perfect. It's small but has a good amount of tables and is bright and airy. The staff are super friendly and helpful. I got a jerk chicken stromboli (we call it a panini on the west coast) which was extremely excellent and just £3.85. They also have a nice range of drinks so I had a ginger ale to wash it down. This place is super pleasant and lovely, and on my way out I must've left my scarf behind. I tweeted them later to check, and they replied quickly to confirm they had it and offered to post it out to me. How sweet is that?! I can't wait for my next trip to Edinburgh so I can pop back in to say thank you (by way of buying all their food, obviously).
It's mouse-wee and, with bare wood everywhere and a Wes Anderson coffee-table book there for the browsing, well, you could say it was hipster as hell. But who cares? Is that actually a perjorative term anyway? They are a coffee shop, and so they have coffee, good coffee, although despite my recent CoffeeEpiphany™, I am very glad that I chose the hot chocolate, because... kids, let me tell you about that hot chocolate. It was a marshmallow in a cup. Now, you know and I know and the whole world knows that hot chocolate ain't worth squat if it doesn't come with marshmallow goodness, but what the world was waiting for Fortitude to show it is that putting the marshmallow on top is DOING IT WRONG. I know this now. I have seen the light. It was a marshmallow... In. A. Cup. The hot chocolate came in a little jug beside it. And as I poured that creamy yum into the cup, the marshmallow began to gooify and disintegrate, becoming one with the liquid, until only part of its mass bobbed around on the surface. And the hot chocolate was rich, and viscose, and sweet, and... revelatory. Now then, it wasn't a big cup, and it did cost me £3. Likewise, a very slim sliver of lemon drizzle cake, dense and moist though it was, set me back £2.60. In all honesty, this is more of a 3.5 star review, because mighty fine though those things were I didn't feel they entirely justified the price... but heck, I'll go back for another, and a blueberry bundt while I'm at it, and if that doesn't qualify for a spot of enthusiasm in the starring then what does?
Fortitude have got it all right. It's everything I'd want an independent coffee shop to be, and more. Everything hits the mark, from the intimacy of the smaller venue, without being so jam packed that you can never get a seat. The coffee menu is simple, but also gives choice with a guest espresso bean and pour over choices. The staff are always helpful, with obvious knowledge, but I never feel intimidated to ask questions. And the food, again isn't extensive (their focus is certainly on the fabulous coffees) but there's enough on offer for a snack if you're peckish. I really do love it in here, and it's a great way to spend an afternoon by yourself or with friends. The only downfall that I could possibly think of, is that it's not open on Sundays.
I make a point of trying to visit all the 'serious' coffee shops in Edinburgh (something which is becoming increasingly difficult) and Fortitude has established itself as one of my favourites. The venue itself is very small with a handful of seats so depending on what time you go it can be a a bit of luck whether you get a seat. It's a nice place though for a pre-work coffee and croissant or a generous bowl of granola and yoghurt. They use Workshop Coffee beans for their espresso which definitely rate as some of the best. The filter coffee is always to a high standard. The owners/baristas are warm and friendly in a way that can often be missing from these kinds of coffee places. For me the real reason to visit is their great selection of beans on sale, and I've yet to find anywhere else with such a selection. If you brew or make espresso at home it is definitely worth checking out as they have a wide variety of different beans from various roasters in the UK and abroad. If your bored of buying the same old blends there is always something new and interesting to try and they are happy to recommend one. They accept contactless payment (such as Apple Pay) for when you want a coffee but are short on change.
I loved this wee spot on Queen Street. I went on a bank holiday and it was completely empty, but the guy behind the counter was very polite and very carefully crafted my take-away flat white. The interior isn't too big, but with so many nice places to sit outside during these spring days, taking away is a great option. It is a very cool looking counter and it is basically a help yourself pastry counter, with a few options for nibbles supplied from Manna House off Easter Road. With only one person making coffee this totally makes sense. Now the coffee it self, is delicious! A very hearty, strong, but not too overpowering blend, with no fruit or citrus flavors. Very smooth and so easy to drink! They use Workshop coffee out of London and also sell these as well as other local beans. They also have a neat range of teas for those who don't drink coffee. I am so tried of everywhere serving Artisan Roast, it is great to find a unique bean and friendly service. A must if you are in the New Town area as it is one of the tastiest coffees I've had in Edinburgh!!
Fortitude is yet another very nice independent coffee shop in Edinburgh. I don't get up to this part of town much, so I was delighted to try somewhere new when I was in the area. Fortitude is in a lovely old building on York Place, and it smells wonderfully of coffee as one enters. The place is small, but there are still about 10-15 spaces to have a seat, so sitting in shouldn't be a problem at most times. Newspapers are provided, which is also nice. The menu is simple. There are of course teas and hot chocolate, but coffee is king here, with a lovely selection of coffees from various countries. As usual, I just had a simple black coffee and sat down to enjoy the warm atmosphere in the place. The coffee was strong and tasty, the staff were friendly, and the prices were fine. Also on offer, although I didn't try any, were some wonderful looking sandwiches and pastries. All the usual coffee shop fayre. Overall, highly recommended, and I'll be back in future.
This is a great cubby hole of a coffe/tea shop. They have 4 small tables to sit at with bench seating and toad stools. Artisan crafted coffees and ample selection of loose leaf teas. As well as some freshly baked sweets. read more
This is such a cute little cafe. My sister and I came here to escape the cold, and both our food and coffees were delicious! A great cappuccino for sure. We both ordered the banana boat (8 euros) and it was the best breakfast we had on the trip. The presentation was top notch too. read more
8 years ago
Five out of seven, on the Disloyal 7 Challenge. And, might I mention, this was the second of the Disloyal 7 coffee shops that we visited this morning, within the space of 30 minutes? I was fairly bouncing off the walls by the time we walked out of the shop. I'm sure this was the smallest of the 7 we visited. It was nice and toasty when we walked in, and every one of their three tables was taken. There were three barstools available, which we snaked once we placed our orders. Because we had just finished lattes at Lowdown, I went with a Cortado. My husband isn't phased by caffeine, so he ordered himself another latte. Despite the fact that we were seated next to the front door (and it was one of those bitingly cold mornings), we soon started to sweat and had to remove our jackets. Remember how I said it was toasty? Their heater was working *very well* in that small space! Still, the drinks came out quickly and were very good. The cortado was expertly made, and my husband truly enjoyed his latte. They seemed to have quite a few regulars coming through, as the guy working the counter (who was working out of the fourth barstool in the place) greeted several people by name. Friendly people and good coffee. Just a bit tight, so if you're hoping to stick around a bit and make yourself comfortable, you might want to have a backup plan in mind. read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
8 years ago
I can not recommend this coffee shop enough! Absolutely brilliant. I was recommended this shop by a friend in the states-that it is a must. The best hot chocolate in the world. I'm personally only a coffee drinker, but had to see what the craze was about for this hot chocolate. So great! You need it. The customer service was fantastic as well! The two women working were so nice and friendly-I had such a lovely chat with them. If your in Edinburgh you must stop by! read more
7 years ago
Really good coffee. We ordered a Cortado and a flat white, both really really good. If I ever visited Scotland again, I'll definitely make a stop here. read more
One day, when I'm a real adult, I'll learn how to hold my coffee. And by that, I mean my inability to process caffeine without seeming like I'm drunk. So this review isn't about the coffee at Fortitude - I promise to try it when I return though! We needed some space for a meeting and this place was perfect. It's small but has a good amount of tables and is bright and airy. The staff are super friendly and helpful. I got a jerk chicken stromboli (we call it a panini on the west coast) which was extremely excellent and just £3.85. They also have a nice range of drinks so I had a ginger ale to wash it down. This place is super pleasant and lovely, and on my way out I must've left my scarf behind. I tweeted them later to check, and they replied quickly to confirm they had it and offered to post it out to me. How sweet is that?! I can't wait for my next trip to Edinburgh so I can pop back in to say thank you (by way of buying all their food, obviously). read more
12 years ago
It's mouse-wee and, with bare wood everywhere and a Wes Anderson coffee-table book there for the browsing, well, you could say it was hipster as hell. But who cares? Is that actually a perjorative term anyway? They are a coffee shop, and so they have coffee, good coffee, although despite my recent CoffeeEpiphany™, I am very glad that I chose the hot chocolate, because... kids, let me tell you about that hot chocolate. It was a marshmallow in a cup. Now, you know and I know and the whole world knows that hot chocolate ain't worth squat if it doesn't come with marshmallow goodness, but what the world was waiting for Fortitude to show it is that putting the marshmallow on top is DOING IT WRONG. I know this now. I have seen the light. It was a marshmallow... In. A. Cup. The hot chocolate came in a little jug beside it. And as I poured that creamy yum into the cup, the marshmallow began to gooify and disintegrate, becoming one with the liquid, until only part of its mass bobbed around on the surface. And the hot chocolate was rich, and viscose, and sweet, and... revelatory. Now then, it wasn't a big cup, and it did cost me £3. Likewise, a very slim sliver of lemon drizzle cake, dense and moist though it was, set me back £2.60. In all honesty, this is more of a 3.5 star review, because mighty fine though those things were I didn't feel they entirely justified the price... but heck, I'll go back for another, and a blueberry bundt while I'm at it, and if that doesn't qualify for a spot of enthusiasm in the starring then what does? read more
Fortitude have got it all right. It's everything I'd want an independent coffee shop to be, and more. Everything hits the mark, from the intimacy of the smaller venue, without being so jam packed that you can never get a seat. The coffee menu is simple, but also gives choice with a guest espresso bean and pour over choices. The staff are always helpful, with obvious knowledge, but I never feel intimidated to ask questions. And the food, again isn't extensive (their focus is certainly on the fabulous coffees) but there's enough on offer for a snack if you're peckish. I really do love it in here, and it's a great way to spend an afternoon by yourself or with friends. The only downfall that I could possibly think of, is that it's not open on Sundays. read more
I make a point of trying to visit all the 'serious' coffee shops in Edinburgh (something which is becoming increasingly difficult) and Fortitude has established itself as one of my favourites. The venue itself is very small with a handful of seats so depending on what time you go it can be a a bit of luck whether you get a seat. It's a nice place though for a pre-work coffee and croissant or a generous bowl of granola and yoghurt. They use Workshop Coffee beans for their espresso which definitely rate as some of the best. The filter coffee is always to a high standard. The owners/baristas are warm and friendly in a way that can often be missing from these kinds of coffee places. For me the real reason to visit is their great selection of beans on sale, and I've yet to find anywhere else with such a selection. If you brew or make espresso at home it is definitely worth checking out as they have a wide variety of different beans from various roasters in the UK and abroad. If your bored of buying the same old blends there is always something new and interesting to try and they are happy to recommend one. They accept contactless payment (such as Apple Pay) for when you want a coffee but are short on change. read more
3 years ago
I loved this wee spot on Queen Street. I went on a bank holiday and it was completely empty, but the guy behind the counter was very polite and very carefully crafted my take-away flat white. The interior isn't too big, but with so many nice places to sit outside during these spring days, taking away is a great option. It is a very cool looking counter and it is basically a help yourself pastry counter, with a few options for nibbles supplied from Manna House off Easter Road. With only one person making coffee this totally makes sense. Now the coffee it self, is delicious! A very hearty, strong, but not too overpowering blend, with no fruit or citrus flavors. Very smooth and so easy to drink! They use Workshop coffee out of London and also sell these as well as other local beans. They also have a neat range of teas for those who don't drink coffee. I am so tried of everywhere serving Artisan Roast, it is great to find a unique bean and friendly service. A must if you are in the New Town area as it is one of the tastiest coffees I've had in Edinburgh!! read more
8 years ago
Fortitude is yet another very nice independent coffee shop in Edinburgh. I don't get up to this part of town much, so I was delighted to try somewhere new when I was in the area. Fortitude is in a lovely old building on York Place, and it smells wonderfully of coffee as one enters. The place is small, but there are still about 10-15 spaces to have a seat, so sitting in shouldn't be a problem at most times. Newspapers are provided, which is also nice. The menu is simple. There are of course teas and hot chocolate, but coffee is king here, with a lovely selection of coffees from various countries. As usual, I just had a simple black coffee and sat down to enjoy the warm atmosphere in the place. The coffee was strong and tasty, the staff were friendly, and the prices were fine. Also on offer, although I didn't try any, were some wonderful looking sandwiches and pastries. All the usual coffee shop fayre. Overall, highly recommended, and I'll be back in future. read more
10 years ago
Unreal coffee at Fortitude. Probably the best flat white you can get in Edinburgh. It's a really small and intimate cafe, so don't bank on getting a seat. Although, you can get your coffee to go and sit on the front steps on a sunny day. read more
10 years ago
This place quite simply does really great coffee. So if you're looking for an espresso or latte to takeaway I would definitely recommend this place. Sitting in the shop is totally fine too. I don't know how I would feel about spending an extended period of time in the shop though. The chairs are like the old school chairs you got in assembly (y'know the ones the big kids sat on. It was like a coming of age when you were allowed to sit on these chairs). They're fine for a bit of nostalgia but anymore than 30 minutes and you realise they're not the most comfortable things in the world. It is nice to sink into a big armchair and sip a cup of coffee. In summary it's a good place but I just couldn't see myself staying for anymore than one cup. Other than the not so comfy chairs because the place is so small I felt an obligation to to drink up and get moving to let the next person into my table. read more
7 years ago
10 years ago
really not sure why it's taken so long for me to post a review of this wonderful coffee shop. Cool, friendly, high-end/serious coffee (all sorts - aeropress, pour over, espresso etc). Delicious cakes (inc doughnuts), excellents soup and wonderful bagels. Also sell exotic beans and coffee paraphernalia. I find the service friendlier than some of the high end coffee competitors. Good place to sit (free wifi). A wonderful business that should be supported. read more
9 years ago
Sweet little coffee shop with kind staff and delicious hot chocolate available in milk and dark. It comes in a little black creamer to pour over a homemade marshmallow waiting in your cup. Magical. read more
9 years ago
10 years ago
Seriously yummy soya latte option, and lovely friendly staff. Must try some of those delicious looking rolls next time. read more
10 years ago
Another rainy day in Edinburgh. I was sitting in my new favourite spot, just next to the foggy window. My flat white was made with house expresso from Workshop, with a silky layer of froth. If you feel like having a sweet treat, try their pistachio and pear polenta from Lovercrumbs! read more
Fortitude is a welcome addition to the buzzing coffee scene in Edinburgh. It's location is ideal for those who want exceptional coffee in the city centre and who want to avoid big and bad chain coffee places. It's chilled vibe is welcoming as is its friendly staff. These guys are serious about ensuring your coffee is as it should be, I ordered a flat white which was deliciously creamy and served at the perfect drinking temperature and a slice of carrot cake which was moist and fruity. With the addition of free newspapers, wifi and sweet and savoury food selections I could quite happily spend a while here watching the world go by. Trendy, terrific and local this will be a firm favourite. read more
12 years ago
10 years ago
11 years ago
From the outside this wee place looks like a hidden gem, but stepping through the doors you soon realise that it's not so hidden, greeted with the hustle and bustle of what's clearly a very busy speciality coffee shop. Flat white to go it was as we couldn't get a seat, service was great, coffee was decent but a wee bit too hot for me, however that's a personal preference. The interior is really nice to and the place has a really good atmosphere. Hopefully get to sit in next time, have a coffee and try some of their delicious menu. read more
11 years ago
One of the best in Edinburgh for great coffee - fact. Workshop beans and regular guests. Espresso and pour over plus some kit and beans to take home. Highly recommended. read more
7 years ago
Page 1 of 2
More info about Fortitude Coffee
3C York Place
Edinburgh EH1 3EB
United Kingdom
New Town
Directions
0131 557 3063
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.fortitudecoffee.com
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
Review Highlights - Fortitude Coffee
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
1 review that is not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
10 years ago
Fortitude Coffee - coffee - Updated May 2026
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
People who viewed Fortitude Coffee also viewed
Artisan Roast
151 reviews
New Town
££
Brew Lab
125 reviews
Newington
££
Lowdown Coffee
18 reviews
New Town
££
Wellington Coffee
83 reviews
New Town
£
Procaffeination
19 reviews
Royal Mile, Old Town
£
Cairngorm Coffee
37 reviews
New Town
£
Castello Coffee Co.
27 reviews
New Town
££
Saint Giles Cafe Bar
41 reviews
Old Town, Royal Mile
££
Strumpets
9 reviews
West End
££
Edinburgh Press Club
13 reviews
Old Town, Royal Mile
£