Discovering Stockbridge: Edinburgh’s Dog-Friendly Gem

Nestled in the bustling heart of Edinburgh, Stockbridge emerges as a picturesque neighbourhood that not only welcomes but adores our four-legged friends. This delightful community has become a sanctuary for pet lovers, offering an array of pet-friendly cafes, spacious parks, and welcoming stores that cater to every whim of your cherished canine.

A Day with Paws in the Park

Imagine strolling down the vibrant streets of Stockbridge, where every corner buzzes with the energy of people and their furry companions. The pavements come alive with the pitter-patter of paws, as owners and dogs alike enjoy the simple pleasure of a walk, punctuated by stops for a refreshing puppacino or a joyful romp in the off-leash expanse of Inverleith Park. It’s a place where tails wag freely and the spirit of companionship blossoms.

Sip & Bark: Raising the Bar for Pooch Pampering

The recent arrival of Sip & Bark to Stockbridge has elevated the neighbourhood’s pet-friendly allure. With a menu designed to delight both humans and hounds, this chic establishment is the talk of the town. We had the pleasure of taking Artie (Artemis) McFartie, the charming Dachshund, for a brunch experience that left his tail wagging for more. It’s clear that Sip & Bark is setting a new standard for doggy dining.

Stockbridge: A Canine Utopia

Stockbridge isn’t just a place; it’s a community that embodies the love for dogs in every shop window and every greeting. It’s a dog-friendly paradise where every day is an opportunity to make memories with your beloved pet. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Stockbridge invites you to experience the joy of a neighbourhood that truly understands the bond between humans and their dogs.

REVIEW OF SIP & BARK CAFE, STOCKBRIDGE, EDINBURGH

Sip & Bark: A Tail-Wagging Haven in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge

Sip & Bark is a unique cafe that’s barking up the right tree when it comes to pampering pooches. It’s not your average dog-friendly cafe; it’s a place where dogs are treated with the same, if not more, reverence as their human counterparts.

A Pawsitively Unique Experience

From the moment you and your furry friend step into Sip & Bark, the experience is nothing short of delightful. The cafe may be cozy, but it boasts spacious and comfortable seating, both indoors beside a gorgeous large window and outdoors for those sunny Edinburgh days. Upon arrival, our beloved Artie was greeted with a warm fleece and a bowl of water, setting the stage for a relaxing visit.

More Than Just a Puppacino

While many cafes offer water and perhaps a puppacino, Sip & Bark goes the extra mile with a dedicated doggie menu. Featuring treats like Dog Doughnuts and Bone Biscuits, and even a dog-friendly ‘wine’, the menu ensures that every doggo’s taste is catered to. Artie’s initial hesitation towards the Posh Pooch ‘wine’ quickly turned into eager sips, proving that Sip & Bark knows just what a dog desires.

For the Hoomans: A Culinary Journey

The human menu is equally impressive, listing an array of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options that’ll make your mouth water. From a hearty Full Scottish breakfast to the exotic Turkish Eggs or the sweet Fig and Marscapone on Sourdough, there’s something for every palate. And let’s not forget the little ones, with a kids menu featuring pancakes and cereal to start their day right.

A Mixed Bag of Flavours

Ox Cheeks Eggs Benedict with poached eggs, pickled cucumber and Hollandaise sauce.

Marscapone Berry Pancakes with mixed fruit, maple syrup, whipped honey marscapone, marshmallows, strawberry coulis and crushed pistachios.

Our culinary adventure included the Ox Cheeks Eggs Benedict and the Marscapone Berry Pancakes. While the ox cheek was a hit in terms of flavour, its cold temperature was a miss. The pancakes, though promising, fell short on execution with missing ingredients and dryness. However, these are just teething problems for a newly opened establishment.

A Doggy Doughnut Shortfall

Even the best-laid plans have their hiccups, as was the case with the unavailable Doggy Doughnut. But the peanut butter flavoured Bone Biscuit was a resounding success, devoured by Artie in mere minutes—a sure sign of approval.

A Community Favourite

Sip & Bark has quickly become a favourite among both dog owners and non-owners. The cafe exudes a welcoming atmosphere where well-mannered dogs enhance the happiness of all patrons. It’s a place where daily doses of dog are guaranteed to uplift your spirits.

Final Thoughts

Sip & Bark is a gem in the making. With a few tweaks to the menu, it’s set to become a Stockbridge staple. It’s a must-visit for any dog lover looking for a spot that truly celebrates man’s best friend. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT SIP AND BARK

• Without saying they are 100% dog friendly

• Disabled accessible with the entrance on street level and additional seating outside. I’m unsure of the w/c

• They do cater for vegan and vegetarians

Sip & Bark, 108 Raeburn Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH4 1HH www.sipandbark.co.uk

My Spoon Award : Bronze Spoon 7/10

I was invited by Sip & Bark to review their menu.

Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk