Cafe Portrait

Café Portrait has been beautifully refurbished, blending contemporary elegance with enhanced comfort. Sleek new furnishings, improved acoustics, and a thoughtfully redesigned servery create a seamless and swift dining experience. Our dedicated coffee and cake counter offers the perfect sweet indulgence, while the main counter tempts with an ever-changing selection of homemade soups, vibrant salads, artisanal sandwiches, and daily specials.

The Nook at Café Portrait

For those seeking a more leisurely dining experience, The Nook - our intimate table-service restaurant - invites you to slow down and savour a delicious brunch or lunch in relaxed surroundings.

The Nook offers a relaxed restaurant experience within Café Portrait, serving seasonal dishes inspired by Scotland's larder. This autumn and winter, enjoy warming favourites including Cullen Skink, Haggis Bonbons, Roast Chicken Supreme and Three-Meat Lasagne, alongside a carefully selected range of wines, cocktails and Scottish-inspired drinks. Perfect for a leisurely lunch, pre-gallery dining or a cosy catch-up in the heart of Edinburgh.

Use the button on the right to book your table at The Nook.
Please see the sample menu link to the right.

Heritage Portfolio Café Experience Vouchers

Treat friends and loved ones to the perfect gift – monetary vouchers that can be enjoyed at any of the National Galleries Scotland café spaces, including Café Portrait & The Nook.

Easy to order online, vouchers are delivered instantly by email with a personalised message – a thoughtful surprise and a delicious treat for anyone’s inbox!

See gifts & vouchers

Event Hire

Set within the stunning Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Café Portrait offers a stylish and versatile setting for evening events, receptions, and private dining. Its warm, contemporary atmosphere pairs beautifully with the gallery’s historic surroundings. Adjacent to the café, The Nook provides an intimate space ideal for smaller gatherings, celebrations, or corporate events - a hidden gem in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.

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