CYGNET

Our Food

At Cygnet, food is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in uncompromised, simple flavours crafted from well-sourced, seasonal ingredients — food that is not only delicious but also welcoming, comforting, and memorable.

Food is at the Heart of Everything We Do

We are proud to work with local farmers, producers, and some of the finest UK food and drink suppliers, creating a sustainable supply chain that supports both our communities and the planet. By sourcing responsibly and reducing food miles wherever possible, we ensure our dishes are fresh, vibrant, and kinder to the environment.

Our menus are designed to reflect the best of the season, customer expectations, and the evolving needs of modern dining. Every dish is homemade, carefully balanced, and executed with precision — because we believe that simplicity, done well, creates the most impact.

We also understand the importance of inclusivity in food. That’s why we cater thoughtfully for allergies, intolerances, and dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Cygnet experience without compromise.

At Cygnet, our food is more than just a meal — it’s a statement of our values: fresh, sustainable, inclusive, and always delicious.
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Our Food

At Cygnet, food is far more than what we serve on a plate. It is the beating heart of our business, the measure of our standards, and the expression of our passion for hospitality. Over the last 25 years, we have built a reputation as one of Scotland’s leading café and catering companies, and at the centre of that reputation is food that is locally sourced, thoughtfully crafted, and consistently five-star in both flavour and presentation.

Locally Rooted, Globally Inspired

Our Scottish heritage is something we are proud of, and it plays an important role in shaping the way we design and deliver our menus. Scotland is home to an abundance of artisanal producers, farmers, and trusted suppliers, and we work closely with them to ensure that our food reflects the best of what the country has to offer. Whether it is fresh produce grown in the fields of East Lothian, dairy from family-run farms, or breads baked by local artisans, we seek out suppliers who share our values of quality, sustainability, and care.

But while our roots are local, our inspiration is global. We take cues from flavours and techniques from around the world to bring diversity and excitement to our menus. From the comfort of a traditional Scottish soup to the brightness of a Mediterranean salad or the spice of a curry, our menus are designed to be inclusive, varied, and appealing to every palate.

Serving Every Part of the Day

Life doesn’t fit into a single mealtime, and neither do we. At Cygnet, our food offering spans the whole day, ensuring that every customer can find something satisfying at any time.

Breakfast – From simple pastries and fresh fruit to hearty full Scottish breakfasts and lighter, healthier options, we make sure mornings begin with flavour, energy, and choice.

Brunch – A favourite for relaxed weekends or mid-morning breaks, our brunch dishes combine creativity and indulgence. Think artisan sourdough topped with seasonal ingredients, homemade granola with local yoghurt, or eggs cooked just the way you like them.

Lunch – Whether it’s a quick grab-and-go option for those on the move or a leisurely sit-down meal, our lunches focus on balance, freshness, and taste. Homemade soups, hearty sandwiches, crisp salads, and hot dishes all feature on our menus.

Afternoon Tea – Afternoon tea has become one of our signature experiences. We prepare delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries, all accompanied by carefully chosen teas or speciality coffees. It’s indulgence with elegance, crafted to make moments memorable.

Snacks and Treats – Throughout the day, guests can also enjoy lighter options — from homemade traybakes and artisan cakes to savoury bites. Each one is made with the same care and attention to detail as our main meals.

Sustainability on the Plate

Our approach to food is deeply linked to our commitment to sustainability. We believe that what we serve should not only delight our guests but also support a healthier planet. That’s why we focus on:

Seasonality – Designing menus that follow the rhythms of the seasons, reducing the environmental impact of sourcing.

Local Sourcing – Prioritising nearby producers and reducing food miles wherever possible.

Plant-forward Menus – Encouraging balance by offering creative plant-based options that are as exciting as any meat-based dish.

Food Waste Reduction – Careful planning of portion sizes, menu design, and kitchen systems to ensure we waste as little as possible.

By making sustainability a guiding principle, we’re not only improving the way we operate today but also making sure our food is part of a more responsible future.

Our Five-Star Reputation

Over the decades, we have grown from a small family business into one of Scotland’s most respected café and catering providers. Throughout that journey, food has remained the cornerstone of our success. Our reputation for five-star quality is not something we take for granted — it is earned every day in the way we source, prepare, and serve.

Whether it’s a traybake made to a family recipe, a carefully plated fine-dining dish for an event, or a simple cup of soup served on a cold afternoon, our food reflects our values: honesty, quality, sustainability, and care.

Food in High-Volume Environments

One of the things that truly distinguishes Cygnet is our ability to deliver five-star food at scale. Our cafés are often based in high-footfall environments — from iconic castles and museums to bustling adventure parks. This means we serve thousands of visitors daily, many of whom are looking for different things: a quick snack between activities, a sit-down lunch, or something to grab on the way out.

To achieve this, we have built systems and structures that allow us to work with efficiency, speed, and consistency. Our staff are trained to handle busy service with calm professionalism, ensuring every customer receives quality food and warm service no matter how long the queue. In short, we combine the heart of hospitality with the systems of commercial catering, delivering the best of both worlds.

The Visitor Experience

We know that our food is part of a bigger journey. People don’t just come to our cafés to eat; they come to relax, to refuel, to enjoy a break within a wider day out. That’s why we see every meal, snack, or drink as part of the overall visitor experience. We aim to complement the attractions we are part of — whether that’s a castle steeped in history, a family park filled with excitement, or a museum celebrating Scotland’s heritage.

Food has the power to transform a visit from good to unforgettable. When a guest remembers not just what they saw, but also what they ate and how they felt, then we know we have succeeded.

What We Offer

Whether you’re planning an intimate private function, a lively birthday celebration, or a larger outdoor gathering, our team is here to make it seamless, memorable, and tailored to you.

Private Functions

From corporate away-days and team-building events to family celebrations, our cafés provide versatile settings with the bonus of scenic surroundings.

Birthday Parties

Child-friendly, family-focused, or sophisticated milestone celebrations — we’ll design an experience that suits your style.

Outdoor Events

With access to wide open spaces, we can host seasonal gatherings, picnics, and group activities that make the most of Scotland’s natural beauty.

Bespoke Catering

Every event is supported by our signature food and drinks, including speciality coffee, fresh seasonal menus, and options for all dietary needs.

CYGNET

From Edinburgh’s vibrant capital to iconic visitor destinations across the country, we create memorable experiences through speciality coffee, delicious food, and beautifully curated spaces.

Address

  • Head Office :
  • 200 Gorgie Road
  • Edinburgh, EH11 2NX

Contact

  • Contact :
  • Monday to Friday - 9.00 to 5.00
  • info@cygnet-catering.co.uk
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We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’d like to book a table, plan an event, or just ask a question, our team is here to help.