'˜The end of an era' Much-loved west end cafe announces shock closure

The Caffeine Drip is best known for its South African coffee and baking. Picture: Trip Advisor

The Caffeine Drip on Melville Place, best known for its South African coffee and baking, shared the shock news on Facebook on Tuesday afternoon and described it as “the end of an era”.

The post reads: “Dear customers, friends and supporters of The Caffeine Drip. After putting up a good fight we still didn’t manage to keep our business going.

“The current climate for small businesses is pretty tough: Increasing utility bills, wages, VAT and cost of products going up and the bad weather.

“It is with great sadness and heartache we are having to cease trading. Over the last 3.5 years we fed thousands of people, made thousands of coffees for you coffee addicts.

“We would like to thank you all for your love and support over the years. This is the end of an era. We would like to say the biggest thank you to our team, you guys were the best.”

The post ended: “Good luck finding a place as good as The Caffeine Drip in Edinburgh.”

Dozens of customers took to social media to pay tribute to the cafe and express their sadness over the announcement.

Roy Cowan said: “Oh no, I am gutted at this. Thanks for being great for the time you’ve been there.”

Michele Liston also commented: “Absolutely gutted at this news. Best coffee in Edinburgh and lovely food, wish you all the best in your future wherever it takes you.”

Kirsty Irvine added: “This sucks. Best coffee in the west end, great array of non meat produce and lovely staff.”

Join our Facebook group Our Edinburgh to share images and news from and around the Capital