Metropole

I am undecided about Metropole. It has had a recent refresh (I assume after new ownership), but was unable to see what had changed.
Still cracked windows were present, shabby chic tables and cramped booths. Someone has given the place a lick of paint, but no effort made to patch the holes in the wall or remove the hooks from the ceiling where the once Brew-Ha-Ha clothes line once was before applying the paint (maybe to keep with the shabby-esque look?)
I also can't work out if it is table service or counter service at Metropole. I say this after being accosted as soon as I got through the door asking my order of coffee.

Although we were only visiting for a Sunday afternoon coffee I would still return as I am hoping that New York Cheesecake is still on the menu (hint hint!)

This little cafe is a hidden gem, on entrance the grand door with marble surrounds hints to older times. In another life a bank resided here, and if you go through to the toilets you can see the old bank vault door which i believe is used now for more current affairs. The vault door itself is a beautiful piece of history with a gorgeous inlay and probably the closest you will ever get to feeling like your in the the "The Italian Job". The decor inside is understated and probably needs a touch up here and there, but the "shabby chicness" will hit you if you decide on a good old fashioned cup of tea. However you don't just have to settle for old fashioned, with a great selection of brews and the best coffee to have passed my lips in edinburgh, its no wonder this is my regular. There is nothing quite like there take away coffee to kick start my morning, picture the advert now, one sip and ahhhhhhhhhhh, bliss!!! When eating here, the menu will excite, it happens to have some of my favourite foods from all over the world, including parma ham and some exceptional olives which make up one of there great sandwiches. However be warned the rolls are not for the feint hearted and are large, however for me alas, i stopped watching my waste line many moons ago. The menu is fairly large and there are many good dishes to choose from, including great vegi options, including my favourite vege burger which according to the waitress is made from butternut squash, lentils and chilli.. mmmmmmm.. this is fantastic, but for me what personifies "the metropole" is what comes with the burger, sauteed potatoes. Something different to the bog standard fries that you can get everywhere. It makes a difference and for me the small things count. The value for money is very good and you will not leave hungry. They don't however have a dessert menu, but the do have a cake counter and they have a chilli and beetroot cake which is worth cheating for, even if your conscious says no.

All in all, a hidden gem and soon enough i know ill be queuing for a table, but sure enough ill be there.