Cafe Artista

I’d had Cafe Artista on the long list for a visit for an age, but Marchmont is a slight blind spot for me so it wasn’t until a few days ago that I made it along.

Exterior

My visit was at the very earliest strike of lunchtime so I found the place quite quiet. It soon became busy with regular trade, both sit in and takeaway.

The menu offers all day breakfasts, light lunches, as well as well as a full menu of Italian classics, with a strong range of pizza and pasta dishes.

Soup

I had a big appetite to feed as I’d missed breakfast so I ordered generously portioned starters and mains.

First up was a dish that’s a favourite on mine, tortellini in broth, with chicken and saffron their take on the soup element. With chunks of ham and chicken in the mix and many smartly crafted, peppery tortellini this was a meal in itself. Each element was delivered to a very good standard. I was impressed.

To follow, I chose penne with spicy sausage and chickpeas. Again, this was a simple and well-executed dish. I enjoyed it muchly.

Pasta

So overall, I clearly should have prioritised acquaintance with Cafe Artista much more highly. It’s a place of considerable charm serving good quality Italian dishes in just the kind of relaxed and down-at-heel surroundings that I prefer for this style of food. I’d recommend a visit next time you have a longing for good Italian grub.

Scores
Blythe scores Cafe Artista
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: tortellini in chicken and saffron broth; penne salsiccia

I drank: water

I wore: red

Total bill: £17.90

Address: 94-96 Marchmont Crescent, Marchmont, Edinburgh EH9 1HD