Tanifiki: A local coffee hub with a global vision, in Portobello, Edinburgh
When you’re on the edge of a big city like Edinburgh, it’s easy to feel like investment and attention are focused elsewhere – away from local communities, towards the postcard-ready city centre and tourist hotspots. Suburbs like Portobello, for example, aren’t the first place people think of for cool hangouts, but local businesses have been leaning into its family-friendly, chilled out vibe and connecting the local area to the rest of the world. Tanifiki, a unique and diverse coffee shop just off the number 26 bus from town, makes an impact both locally and globally.
Another coffee shop?
You’d be forgiven then for wondering what’s so great about another coffee shop, particularly in an area which has been criticised for jumping on the gentrification bandwagon. But Tanifiki is doing something different. To the critics I say, the high street hasn’t been taken over by big chains removing the soul from the area, but by local people, doing their best to make a mark on the world with innovative products, an inclusive and welcoming environment, and a genuinely good vibe.
A local landmark
With a huge coffee bean grinder in its corner, beans are ground on site, supplying the shop itself and local customers alike. At first, locals were suspicious of the loud grounding sound and wafting aromas, but now it’s part of the local landscape – something to show off and point out when visitors come to stay.
The food is top quality too. Enjoy tucking into pastries the size of your arm, slices of traditional cake, and an ever-changing selection of moreish sandwiches and bagels that come served with crisps or salad, depending on how healthy you’re feeling. Businesspeople have casual meetings alongside dog walkers sheltering from the Scottish rain. Solo workers stay plugged into the wallside seating, with new parents catching up next to them. There’s a real sense of this being the place to be: no matter who you are or where you’re from, you’re welcome.
A third place with purpose
It’s not just about the vibes of the shop, however, although those are spot on. Owners Ben and Jono “wanted to create a space that brings people together, a space where you can chill on your own or be social, somewhere where you can explore your creativity and a place to host events and exhibitions. But above all they wanted to highlight the exceptional coffee and products from Africa and give back to communities in the continent that they both call home.”
Whether you’re working solo with your laptop, meeting a friend for a catchup, or heading along to a community event, Tanifiki isn’t just a workspace or as a social stop: it’s a place that nurtures connection, creativity and wellbeing. As someone who has needed a place to escape from the mundanity of working at home full time, I’ve found it a great place when you want a change of scene; somewhere to get the creative juices flowing, pick up on others’ energy, and fuel yourself with delicious food and drink.
Beyond the traditional cafe
On occasion, Tanifiki hosts innovative dinner evenings alongside other local businesses. Built around a theme such as Italian or ‘Dine in the Alps’, a three course meal is served alongside wine, cheese and – of course – coffee. It’s a great way to bring the community together in a different way, creating connections that stretch beyond the usual cafe hours.
That community spirit extends beyond the local area to a worldwide vision of inclusivity and supporting others. On the Tanifiki website, their mission is clear: “More than a coffee shop, Tanifiki is all about community and collaboration. We believe that in order to help our communities and countries progress, we need to connect the best of both of our worlds. We know that Tanifiki can make a difference.”
It’s a reminder that a business can positively impact both its local community and those further afield, bringing together two seemingly unrelated nations to raise awareness and provide support. Sure, it’s through coffee, but it’s certainly popular. And if it draws attention to bigger issues, why not?
Speaking of coffee, they use their own, Rafiki coffee beans, which are fairtrade, organic and ethically sourced directly from farmers.Then, back in Edinburgh, the beans are freshly roasted to perfection before being used in our café and sold in the shop. Rafiki Coffee has an overall score of 88% on the Specialty Coffee Association Agency (SCA) scale.
What else is in the area?
Tanifiki is perfectly placed on Portobello High Street, just a short walk from the beachfront where you can sit in the sun or enjoy a bracing walk in the Scottish wind.
It also sits directly next to Portobello Book Shop, lauded by visitors as one of if not the best book shop they’ve been to. Offering the usual hits alongside an expertly curated selection of lesser known authors, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love.
If you want to commit to a more permanent place to work, coworking space Tribe Porty is about eight minutes walk away. Offering a range of membership levels to suit your needs, their membership of over 150 currently includes photographers, translators, graphic designers, and consultants.
And if you want to pick up some food for another day, prolific pasta shop Aemilia is just up the road, offering takeaway fresh pasta – made on site so check out the owners’ Instagram for footage – to be cooked at home.
The power of local
In a world where so much feels impersonal and disconnected, Tanikifi reminds us of the power of the local. It’s a place built on values – inclusivity, wellbeing and connection – with a mission that reaches far beyond its four walls. Whether you’re there for a quiet coffee, a chat with a neighbour, or a deep dive into your creative work, this vital spot in Portobello is proof that the right kind of spaces can help us all feel a little more grounded, and that it’s not just the city centre where great spaces make a huge impact.
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