Terrace Café

The 2012 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2012) edition.

Location, as they say, is everything and it's true that the Terrace Café's position near the Botanics' top lawn, with its stunning views of Edinburgh's iconic skyline, is hard to beat. It's a shame that the food – a self-service selection of pre-made sandwiches, jacket potatoes and hot dishes such as pies or pasta bakes – is not as spectacular. The cakes are a highlight and the scones are so good it might seem churlish to complain that they come with whipped rather than clotted cream. Those seeking a quiet afternoon tea might prefer the Gateway Restaurant, however, as healthy kids' options and an indoor play area make the café a favourite haunt of young families. Sadly, the mature tree that provided shelter, shade and character to the eponymous patio was lost to illness recently and will be sorely missed on sunny days.

• High point: Superb setting and family facilities.
• Low point: Lacklustre canteen-style service.