The bright, airy Gateway Café is an essential part of any visit to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The Gateway provides an idyllic spot to enjoy sumptuous seasonal dishes, prepared from scratch on site and making full use of fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs handpicked from the onsite organic Kitchen Garden.
Take your pick from warming soups, deli filled sandwiches, daily hot specials - plus, of course, a vibrant salad bar jampacked with produce delivered direct from plot to plate.
In addition to ample indoor seating, the outdoor Deck Bar is a perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy an al fresco Fairtrade coffee, refreshing cold drink, or snack with picturesque views out across the grounds . It's also great for grabbing lunch in the summer sun , with stone-baked pizzas served up hot, fresh, and straight out of the oven to order. Advance booking is not required.
Located at the bottom of the stairs in the John Hope Gateway, the Botanics Coffee Cart is a quick and easy option for grab-and-go drinks, or to grab a scoop (or three!) of ice cream from Isle of Arran Dairy.
Celebrate the arrival of spring with our Garden Blooms Spring Afternoon Tea at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh - a seasonal experience set among blossoming landscapes and vibrant colour.
After exploring the Garden’s stunning spring displays, including the iconic rhododendrons, settle into The Arboretum at the John Hope Gateway for a nature-inspired afternoon tea. Enjoy delicate savouries, elegant sweet treats and freshly baked scones crafted with seasonal Scottish ingredients and harvests from the onsite Kitchen Garden. Pair with premium teas, Fairtrade coffee, or elevate your visit with a glass of Pommery Champagne or a handcrafted spring cocktail.
With the Garden in full bloom, there’s no lovelier setting to pause, reconnect, and savour the moment.
13 March – 12 April (selected dates) | Bookings available 12pm–3pm | Reservation required
The Arboretum, John Hope Gateway, West Gate
Indulge friends and loved ones with an unforgettable experience at The Gateway Café. Our vouchers make a unique gift idea that’s appreciated at any time of year.
Vouchers can be securely ordered online and sent instantly by email with a personalised message. They’re a delicious treat for anyone’s inbox!
Set across 70 acres of beautiful green landscape, the Botanics offers superb panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline and a variety of unique dining and event venues in a truly breath-taking setting.
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Celebrate the season with menus bursting with the fresh flavours of summer. From vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs to freshly caught seafood, seasonal berries and exceptional meats, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the very best ingredients at their peak.
Available across our venues, discover bright, seasonal flavours, creative cooking and memorable dining experiences throughout the summer months.
