Gannet & Guga

Gannet & Guga is a small cafe and sandwich bar in The Arches in Edinburgh on East Market Street.

Why Gannet & Guga?

The small independent gourmet sandwich bar offers a variety of filled rolls, in particular Banh Mi (Vietnamese filled baguettes), which can be assembled to taste by choosing from a list of ingredients, pretty Vietnamese summer rolls, soup, stews, salads, a small selection of cakes and pastries, various soft drinks and teas, and filter coffee.

Open for breakfast from early morning, there is granola, chia pots, or sandwiches to choose from. Sandwiches are made fresh to order, though some may have been prepared to grab, pay and take away. For each of the sandwiches, a nice selection of rolls and small baguettes can be chosen from a basket of glutenous goodness to match the filling of choice.

The pun-filled menu comprises of gems such as ‘Latest Crays’ consisting of crayfish tails in a chilli and lime mayonnaise with rocket, and ‘A salmon Bun laden’ with hot smoked salmon, avocado, home pickled beetroot, horseradish sauce and mayonnaise (for £5), which we fell in love with on an enormous and crusty sourdough roll. The filled Banh Mi summer rolls, which consist of rise wrappers, vermicelli and various other fillings, seeds and blossom, are certainly worth trying, and a pretty photo opportunity. Further changing food options are displayed on the specials board.

The interior is industrial with a reclaimed wooden counter, tables built out of building beams, and metal bar stools. Origami cranes strung up along the exposed stone ceiling give it a playful, friendly atmosphere. Upbeat music plays in the background. Staff are friendly and offer to help choose from the menu, and the service is quick. The food is hearty and straight forward.

For coffee addicts it should be noted that the filter coffee is very good, but other coffee specialities are not brewed here. However, there is a selection of teas available.

Gannet & Guga is ideally located for tourists in the Old Town who want to escape hotel breakfast, or are not keen on preparing any in their AirBnB. Food is available to sit in or take away, and so are the chilled soft drinks from the fridge. Locals, and those working in surrounding business are regular visitors, which is always a reassuring sign of consistent quality. Several tables are placed outside where food and drink can be enjoyed in the fresh air, along with the view over to Calton Hill. The proximity to Waverley train station is ideal for anyone wanting a bite to eat before starting their train journey. Gannet & Guga is reasonably priced for its central location, and the quality of food makes it worth a visit or two, or three...

Where is Gannet & Guga?

Arch 2 The Arches, 3 East Market Street
Edinburgh
EH8 8FS