Reviews & Accolades

Curious about what makes Colonnades so special? Don’t just take our word for it — here’s what our guests, critics and awards panels have to say about their time with us.

Awards & Recommendations

We’re proud to have been recognised for our dedication to excellence in afternoon tea and elegant dining:

Winner – Restaurant of the Year (South East)

Scottish Hospitality Awards, 2017

Trip Advisor 

Our guests consistently rank us among the best for service, ambience and quality.

Bookatable

Recommended by Bookatable for unforgettable afternoon tea in Edinburgh’s most iconic setting.

Press & Blog Features

Our unique setting and carefully curated afternoon tea have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of writers and food lovers alike. Here’s what they’ve had to say:

Condé Nast Traveller

"For a classic, old-world feel, the restored Signet Library has all the trappings of a traditional afternoon tea lounge with King Louis-style dining chairs and wonderfully attentive service.”

Time Out

“Housed within the Signet Library – home of the Society of Writers to Her Majesty’s Signet, a prestigious legal association – the open-to-the-public Colonnades proclaims it serves ‘Edinburgh’s finest afternoon tea’ amid serene and elegant surroundings.”

The Scotsman

“Afternoon tea at the Signet Library is a luxurious treat inside an architectural gem that gets the seal of approval.”

The Times

“Enjoy afternoon tea among the fluted Corinthian columns and towering bookcases in this grand Georgian building on the Royal Mile. The elegant salon is a serene setting for one of the finest tea experiences in the Scottish capital.”

Ion-Magazine

''The Colonnades has nailed afternoon tea. A sense of occasion, stunning setting, food perfectly imagined and executed and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon...''  

Edinburgh Etiquette

"Rather than the traditional three tiers of an afternoon tea, the Colonnades place as much emphasis on the savoury elements as the sweet, so we began with an entire stunning stand of savoury goodies...''

Gluten Free in Edinburgh

''...I cannot praise it highly enough. If you want the finest gluten free afternoon tea in Edinburgh, this is where you have to go.'' 

Wines & Olives

''…The mirrored tables were stunning, the glassware was impeccable and the presentation of the afternoon tea selection beat every other afternoon tea I’ve ever had… I fell in love with Colonnades from the moment I sat down. From the incredible surroundings to the interior finishes and the decadent touches, it really is set to become the venue for afternoon tea in Edinburgh.’'