Mimi’s Bakehouse, Edinburgh

Mimi, aka Michelle Phillips, wanted to create a cafe and bakery where customers felt like they were being given a big hug. That may sound sugary but the pretty retro decor, designed by Eskimo, does indeed feel comforting and the huge old-fashioned shop counter of generously portioned strawberry cup cakes, rocky roads and millionaire shortbreads is a sight for sore eyes. If none of that works then Scott Clearie, son-in-law of Mimi was giving out actual hugs – to a regular who wandered behind the counter into the back kitchen completely unannounced. All the cakes are baked at the original Leith bakehouse which was opened in 2010. With windows between the Leith cafe and the bakery you can also watch the baking being done while you eat the end product. Savoury food such as brunches and lunches are served at the Leith branch while salads and sandwiches are available at the Royal Mile branch.