Scotland the best
Cool coffee shops
Five of Scotland’s perfect pit stops for aficionados searching for the perfect cuppa Coffee, Chocolate & Tea
Among many others, this stands out: they make the chocolates, they blend and roast their own coffee (different beans), both in the shop, and there’s 40 teas and unquestionably good cuppas of C, C & T.
944 Argyle St, Glasgow; 0141 204 3161
Artisan Roast
A honeypot/coffeepot for East Village society, the original AR, here before the artisan coffee-shop eruption. The Denbys were pioneers of the stand-up service – the guy stands by the machine, there’s no counter. Most of the very laid-back seating is in the back room, like someone’s pad. Roastings from selected sources are available wholesale and across Scotland.
The Green Welly Stop
On the A82 at Tyndrum, a strategically placed pit stop and all-round super services on the drive to Oban or Fort William (just before the road divides). Great homemade comfort food prepared to order, excellent cakes and puds, fresh OJ and fast, friendly service. thegreenwellystop.co.uk; 01838 400271
The Smithy
The Smithy has a brilliant location by the burn, with outside terrace, in a sleepy, one-street New Galloway. Andrew and Margaret took over this longstanding caff in 2018: home-baking, soups, toasties. thesmithy-newgalloway.co.uk; 01644 420269
Papercup
Heart of artisan coffee culture, frequently said to be “the best flat white”. Unusual snacks, good chat. They roast but not here – at Belmont Lane nearby.
603 Great Western Rd, Glasgow papercupcoffeecompany.bigcartel.com; 0141 339 7822 Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99