Archipelago Artisan Bakery

I’d been on the trail of Archipelago for quite a while, but had been unfailingly poor in my timing, to date. On both previous visits I’d arrived just as the last savoury treats were leaving the building. I’d tried one of their savoury quiches on a visit to Cairngorm and been extremely impressed, so it was with a great sense of expectancy that I carefully stepped down their stairs, today.

On the corner of Frederick Street and Queen Street, just near to the excellent Lucky Liquor Co, Archipelago’s basement bakery is tucked away and best identified by the wonderful aromas emanating from their door.

A simple stand in the corridor leading to the bakery kitchen showcases what’s on offer each day. This is firmly in takeaway territory, but I imagine the little basement courtyard could be home to a few tables and chairs, in due course.

I had timed my visit much more advantageously today so the friendly owner, Caroline, still had two different varieties of quiche left: aubergine, red pepper and marjoram (picked freshly from her garden); and feta, courgette and thyme. It seemed rude not to try both.

With items in hand, I toddled along the road, eating as I walked. Both tarts proved to be absolutely outstanding with the pastry delicately crisp and the fillings packed with flavour. I thought they were absolutely fantastic and right up there with the best baked goods I’ve found in Edinburgh.

So overall, I was completely delighted to finally time my visit to Archipelago correctly. The quality of their baked goods is exceptionally good. With a regularly changing menu of breads, cakes, scones and other treats this is the kind of place that will bring a huge amount of pleasure into your life. A real gem in the heart of the city, it’s a place you must visit soon and visit often.

Scores
Blythe scores Archipelago
5/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16.5/20

I ate: aubergine, red pepper and marjoram quiche; feta, courgette and thyme quiche

I wore: purple striped shirt

Total bill: £6