In the inevitable cycle of closings and openings, Caffe Piccolo, in the Grassmarket, has recently taken over the premises previously occupied by the Blackcherry Café.
Exterior
The interior has had a nice refresh, and feels a little more stylish and comfortable than its previous incarnation.
I was in takeout mood today, so was thinking soup and a sandwich. Sadly, as my lunch was being taken a little on the late side, they’d run out of soup. I think you can probably appreciate my horror at this revelation, but I manfully struggled on.
Their sandwich menu looked quite impressive, so it took a while for me to settle upon one featuring parma ham, mozzarella and rocket. The wonderfully exuberant proprietor talked enthusiastically of a special herb concoction that he’d cooked up, earlier that day, so I was happy to say yes to the option of including some of that, too.
Focaccia
This was all freshly prepared, then gently warmed, just to give the cheese a chance to melt a little. I was soon on my way, with a heady herby aroma emanating from the sandwich bag. I paused in the gloriously sun-kissed Grassmarket to eat it while it was still warm.
It proved to be right up there with the best sandwiches I’ve eaten in the city. It was a good size, packed with well-balanced filling, and the herb and caper pesto-like dressing was really lovely. It was a joy to eat.
Of course, I still had need of soup, but Hula looked after me, just beautifully.
So overall, I thought Caffe Piccolo was really impressive. I look forward to timing my visit better, next time, so I can try their soup. If it’s as good as their sandwiches, I will be a very happy chappy.
Scores
Blythe scores Caffe Piccolo
4/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
4/5 for service
3.5/5 for setting
giving an overall 15/20
I ate: parma ham, mozzarella and rocket focaccia
I drank: espresso
I wore: black boots
Total bill: £6.85
