I think CATA, a Spanish tapas, wine, and coffee restaurant just off Stockbridge, well, effectively in Stockbridge, on North West Circus Place, is a brilliant venue for huddled, quiet conversations.
Whenever I have visited, it has always had that atmospheric, candlelit vibe. It maintains this intimacy even if it isn’t particularly dark outside or if the candles aren’t dominating the table. It feels designed for the specific purpose of drinking wine and sharing food with people you know well.
Generous Tapas and Perfect Pintxos
When I visit, I typically order about three tapas courses for myself, followed very often by a dessert. However, these are on the generous side of tapas, so if you aren’t as big an eater as me, you might comfortably settle for two. I say “tapas,” but the menu offers distinct categories: there is Aperitivo, there are Tablas, there are Tapas, and then there are the Pintxos – the delightful open sandwiches typical of the Basque Country. (Not that I knew that before rocking up the first time at CATA.)
The menu includes excellent Ibericos (chorizo options) and a rotating vegetable soup (Crema del día). I am particularly fond of the Chorizo en su crema (spicy chorizo served in its own rich sauce) and the Fabada de la casa. However, the Pintxos are where CATA truly shines. I highly recommend the Pollo al Ajillo (garlic chicken and red pepper confit on bread) as well as the Sobrasada Picante con Mahón. The latter is a “chorizo paste” spread with cheese, honey, and walnuts on bread, hitting every savoury and sweet note you could want.
I have yet to try the Spanish breakfast, which is available only before 12:30 pm, either to sit in or take away, but the Café & Pan con Tomate with Jamón Ibérico is right at the top of my to-do list.
A Solo Diner’s Sanctuary
You can book in advance (via TheFork), and I really recommend doing so. I have felt a pang of guilt each time I’ve been to CATA because I haven’t been able to have those quiet conversations with friends; I have always turned up by myself. Despite taking up an entire table by itself (once sharing with some walk-ins!), it has never been a problem for the staff. I have always felt welcome and looked after. Perhaps that is why I always opt for that extra tapas dish to add to my bill. It is a space where you feel appropriately cared for.
The opening hours are worth a mention as they are open 7 days a week, quite unusual for the area, from noon to 11:00 pm. Please note that the kitchen closes at a sensible 9:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to finish eating and chatting in that relaxed atmosphere.
The wines are excellent, though if you appreciate fine wine, the bill can creep up. The pacing of the tapas arriving as they are ready often finds me reaching for a second glass before I know it.
Things to do in Stockbridge
Stockbridge is widely considered a “foodie paradise” where substandard venues struggle to survive, so CATA’s continued success is proof of its quality. If you are visiting the area, it is worth spending the afternoon exploring before your dinner reservation. The neighbourhood is famous for its high-quality charity shops and independent boutiques along Raeburn Place. For those looking to extend their stay in the city, Native Places offers upscale lifestyle aparthotels that provide a “home away from home” experience, perfect for recovering after a heavy meal.
If you are travelling from further afield, you can book your rail travel into Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket via The Trainline, both of which are a short taxi or bus ride from Stockbridge. For visitors who want to explore the history of the New Town and Stockbridge in more depth, GetYourGuide offers a variety of walking tours that delve into the local architecture and stories. Alternatively, if you want to explore the wider Lothians, you can arrange car hire through Sixt to get you out of the city centre.
Overall
CATA is an easy recommendation. It survives in the brutal culinary landscape of Stockbridge by offering authenticity and warmth. The prices vary, tapas range from around £5 to £15, and pintxos sit around the £7 mark, meaning you can tailor the meal to your budget.
The only slight criticism I have is the inclusion of octopus on the menu. Octopuses are highly intelligent animals, and while I understand the kitchen is aiming for an authentic Spanish experience, it is a controversial option that might put some diners off. I personally avoided it. That aside, CATA is a top-tier establishment.
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Review: CATA
Located on North West Circus Place, CATA serves traditional Spanish small plates, including sobrasada and jamón ibérico, in a cosy, intimate setting open seven days a week.
Summary
We rate CATA as a top-tier Spanish experience in Edinburgh, noting the excellent “chorizo en su crema” and extensive wine list, though ethically minded diners should note the presence of octopus on the menu.
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