Cafe Newton, Dean Gallery

Café Newton which interior was also designed by Terry Farrell was intended to be "a modern take on the coffee houses of Vienna", but you may feel it has more of a Charles Rennie Mackintosh theme, most notably in the high-back chairs that surround the white cloth, glass topped tables. The counter and the wall panelling are in dark wood. Mirrors and display cabinets feature contrasting white sculptures while the external wall is dominated by three large picture windows. It is certainly formal and stylish – you can almost imagine a retired Sir Timothy taking tea here!

There is table service and specials from the Mediterranean-influenced menu are set out on a blackboard. Lunch is served between 12.00 and 14.30 - and it can get busy. My advice is to book. Starters include an Antipasti platter, Soup of the Day and Scottish Smoked Salmon and Crème Fraiche on brown bread. Specials might include Moroccan Vegetable Stew on Minty Cous Cous. Aubergine, Feta and Olives, and Humous, Olives and Red peppers are just a couple of the vegetable fillings, which are available on rosemary focaccia baguettes or granary bread.

Cakes (including lemon and polenta at an expensive £2.95 per slice), pastries and desserts are all displayed on the counter.

Coffee (decaffeinated on request), Tea (including herbal) and hot chocolate are the hot drinks on the menu. Cold drinks include Pago Juice (just one Pago – unlike the Pacific Island!), which is a blend of orange, lemon and carrot juice, and Orange and Lemon Presse. The wine choice is restricted to a couple each of reds and whites – and the only beer on offer just has to be Stella Artois. Reassuringly expensive, just like the surroundings!

Newspapers are available to peruse.

Why would I go there? Attractive interior …..and the Gallery.

Any Negatives? More formal and subdued and does not have the buzz of the Gallery Café at the Modern Art Gallery over the road. But for some this might be an advantage.

Before or After
1. Cross the road to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art fronted by the Charles Jencks landscape sculpture – www.natgalscot.ac.uk
2.  …or take the bus which runs between the NGS galleries into the city centre to visit the Royal Scottish Academy in Princes Street or the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Queen Street.
3. Take the attractive river walkway along the Water of Leith through the Dean Village down to Stockbridge with its restaurants and bars – see www.waterofleith.org.uk