When it comes to the Southside of Edinburgh, the Rettie team know it well. From charming cafés to hidden boutiques, this vibrant part of the city is home to some of our favourite local gems. Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, the Southside offers a unique blend of culture, and character, wrapped up in its welcoming neighbourhoods. In this post, our team is sharing the spots we love most, offering a personal look at the businesses that make this part of Edinburgh feel like home.

Eats and Treats

From tapas to brunch, Edinburgh's Southside is home to some of the best spots for food lovers. Laura Mathieson, Associate Director in our Edinburgh sales team, has a personal favourite - PIGGS wine bar in Bruntsfield. This hidden gem offers a perfect mix of fine wine and delicious tapas, run by two passionate brothers who share a deep love for Spanish culture.

Karen Turner, our Director of Lettings swears by Cafe Grande. An established Edinburgh South cafe, serving great brunches and a menu consisting of seasonal Scottish produce, it is a great spot for a slow Sunday morning.

A firm team favourite, and Edinburgh institution is Lucas Ice Cream on Morningside Road. Not just for summer in Scotland - this famous family have been crafting luxury dairy ice cream for over 100 years.

Coffee Culture

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just in need of a caffeine fix, Edinburgh South's coffee scene offers something for every taste. James Ward, one of our sales consultants loves Machina Coffee on Marchmont Road. This welcoming haven is a spacious cafe and all their coffee is speciality grade, sustainably and ethically sourced, and roasted locally at their HQ just behind Arthurs Seat.

Bob Duncan, our Managing Director of Rettie Financial Services gravitates to Blackwood Coffee on Morningside Road. Blackwood has a chilled out feel with plenty of regulars dropping in for take-away as well as eat-in. Big open windows at the front let in plenty of light and you can watch the bustling Morningside Road activity.

Local Legends

The Southside is home to a diverse range of businesses. For the past 14 years, Sarah Tanner, Senior Sales Negotiator, has been a loyal visitor to Jackie at Dermal Clinic for all things skincare. Sarah first discovered Jackie while working in Morningside and says, "She’s a lovely, award-winning nurse practitioner, and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my skin."

IJ Mellis Cheesemonger in Morningside is a must visit, continuing the same mission that is started with: to provide a quality product and premium service. Trading for over 30 years – working with new suppliers, expanding on product offerings, building new branches. Sarah often uses their produce to create her own, impressive charcuterie boards!

For those with a family, John Wybar, Director of Edinburgh Sales reccomends Maddie & Mark's on Bruntsfield Place. They are an independant retailer, specialising in childrens footwear.

Coming Soon...

We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of Rettie Edinburgh South, our brand-new branch in the heart of Edinburgh South. Offering expertise in Sales, Lettings, and Financial Services, we’re here to provide a seamless, comprehensive approach to your property needs.

Our team is excited to become part of this vibrant community, getting to know our neighbours and supporting clients every step of the way on their property journey—whether buying, selling, letting, renting, or investing.

Watch this space for more updates as we prepare to open our doors. We can’t wait to meet you and help you with your next move.