Mary King's Coffee House

This coffee house is part of the historic Edinburgh City Chambers building, complete with impressive wood-panelling and ornate plasterwork.

The 2017 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

Next door to the City Chambers in a historic courtyard within The Real Mary King’s Close, this wee coffee shop isn't immediately obvious – but keep going through the Gift Shop and neat table and chairs await in this handsome building. Formerly the Royal Exchange Coffee House, a new streamlined menu takes effect from April 2017. Expect simple, reliable options like soup, sandwiches, rolls and baked potatoes together with a selection of cakes and Brodies Fairtrade tea and coffee. With a focus on locally sourced produce there is alos a champagne afternoon tea option available.

• High point: Excellent gift shop shares same site
• Low point: A wee bit tricky to find