Iona Cafe

15 Boswall Rd, Edinburgh EH5 3RJ, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(72 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Welcome to Iona Cafe, a charming little gem located at 15 Boswall Rd in the heart of Edinburgh. This community-focused cafe is not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike can enjoy good food while supporting a noble cause. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, Iona Cafe creates an inviting atmosphere that feels like home, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.

At Iona Cafe, you’ll find a delightful array of savory and sweet treats that cater to every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a warming soup and roll for just £2.30, or perhaps a more filling soup/sandwich meal deal at £4.50, the menu promises flavors that are both comforting and nutritious. Their homemade soups receive rave reviews, with many customers, like Aravind Chakilam, hailing them as "the best in Edinburgh" – perfect for those chilly, blustery days the city is known for.

Satisfy your cravings with their selection of filled paninis and bagels (both at £3.10), or treat yourself to a delightful homemade cake for just £2.30. The pastries, each priced at £3.00, are a tempting addition to your coffee break, and if you’re looking for something sweet, the scones served with butter and jam for £2.30 are a delightful choice. Guests frequently highlight the quality of their cakes, which, paired with a good cup of coffee, create an indulgent yet affordable experience.

The atmosphere at Iona Cafe is another reason to stop by. As Elsbeth Paige-Jeffers shared, it’s "a beautiful spot with tasty food and kind staff." The cafe is not only popular with families and dog owners – thanks to its nearby park – but it also portrays a sense of community spirit that makes you want to linger a little longer. Sit back and enjoy your meal while soaking up the cheerful environment and engaging with the friendly volunteers, who are always ready to share a smile and a warm chat.

With prices that reflect a commitment to accessibility, it’s no wonder that visitors like Sonia Hawes appreciate the “very reasonable” offerings available, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a midday coffee break. The volunteers throw in complimentary hot drinks, enhancing the welcoming feel of this local treasure.

In a world filled with polished chains, Iona Cafe stands out as a heartwarming place where you can enjoy both quality food and a sense of purpose. This spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy great flavors in a serene and supportive environment. Stop by Iona Cafe and become part of a community who believes in good food for a good cause; you won’t just leave satisfied, but inspired.

Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

72 Reviews
Elsbeth Paige-Jeffers

16 Sep 2025

A beautiful spot with tasty food and kind (volunteer) staff. There is a park nearby where we saw some jaunting doggos, and we were generally impressed with how much of a community hub this spot is. Very recommended.

Sonia Hawes

14 Sep 2025

Excellent place for lunch or coffee and cake, very very reasonable prices and good food

Mia Becze

03 Sep 2025

Lovely, peaceful place. Good cakes and tea. Also near a dog park area.

Sam Nguyen

07 Aug 2025

Cute cafe with friendly staff and good food & drinks at very reasonable prices.

Dace Wilson

01 Aug 2025

Lovely cafe run by volunteers. Complimentary hot drinks. Beautiful part of town with a beach and stunning views within a 2 minute walk from the cafe!

Donald Saunders

01 Aug 2025

Tremendous place for a good quality lunch at very reasonable prices. All staff are volunteers raising funds for the hospice. Dogs welcome and very popular with young mums and families.

Aravind Chakilam

06 Jul 2025

If you're looking for the best soups in Edinburgh, look no further than Iona Cafe! Their soups are simply outstanding – fresh, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a chilly Edinburgh day, they offer a variety that caters to every taste, from classic lentil, mushroom to unique seasonal specials. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, paired with friendly service, makes it a top spot in the market. Highly recommend stopping by for a bowl of comfort!

Alan Murray

18 Jun 2025

Wonderful non-profit volunteer run cafe. Nice coffee and beautiful cake! Reflective space.

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