The Chocolate Tree

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.

There is a definite hippy vibe here with the mismatched furniture, bare wood and colourful, handmade signs. This is the good side of hippydom, though, with a dedication to the local community that has seen them resist the temptation to move to bigger premises outside Bruntsfield. Additionally, while most things are made inhouse, those that aren’t are sourced locally: coffee comes from Artisan Roast just across the road. Spanish-style hot chocolate may be a bit too sweet but the accompanying churros are cooked to order, keeping their light, fresh texture. A wide selection of loose leaf teas provides a lighter alternative to the hot chocolate and cakes but this is very much a destination for those seeking a sugar rush. Service can be a tad too relaxed but overall the hippy charm makes it hard not to warm to this place.

• High point: Easygoing charm
• Low point: Sugar levels could be toned down

1. Criollo, Edinburgh – 22 September 2010, 10:21pmThe Chocolate TreeReport

We have installed a new italian espresso machine, cappuccinos now coming out great, using Artisan Roast coffee and staff are provided with barista training. Also now serving real churros to accompany the Spanish hot chocolate :) Ali