A beloved Edinburgh institution is saying farewell to its original home. Mimi’s Bakehouse, a family-run bakery cherished across the city, will close the doors of its Leith location this Sunday after a decade of serving the community.
The Shore café holds a particularly poignant history for founder Michelle Phillips. It was here, in 2010, that Mimi’s journey began – a bold venture funded by selling her family home during a recession, a decision many considered audacious at the time.
Built on a foundation of passion, dedication, and, as Michelle fondly recalls, “lots and lots of butter,” the bakery quickly blossomed. Its success fueled expansion, leading to additional cafes and even an industrial bakery to meet growing demand for their sweet creations.
This closure marks the second location lost in just over a year, following the shuttering of the Royal Mile branch last September. While Michelle didn’t detail specific challenges, she emphasized a strategic shift in focus towards the remaining Edinburgh cafes – City Art Centre, Comely Bank, Corstorphine, and Lauriston Castle – and their thriving online business.
The Shore wasn’t just a bakery; it was a dream realized. Michelle remembers the initial disbelief from those around her, but the café quickly became a local haven, woven into the fabric of the Leith community and filled with cherished memories.
Despite the sadness of this chapter’s end, Michelle remains resolute. She insists this isn’t a final goodbye, but a recalibration – a chance to refine the Mimi’s experience for both her dedicated team and loyal customers.
The bakery, known for its tempting array of cakes, lunches, and comforting hot beverages, continues to operate from its headquarters near Granton Harbour, supplying treats to shops and homes throughout the city.
Adding another layer to the story, Mimi’s had previously voiced concerns about the impact of ongoing council roadworks on The Shore, joining other businesses in accusing the city of neglecting the area and hindering their livelihood.
Michelle’s message is one of hope and resilience. While the café as it’s known will be stepping back, she hints at exciting possibilities for the future, promising a new chapter that honors the spirit of Mimi’s – a love for exceptional food and genuine hospitality. “Watch this space,” she urges.
Leith will forever hold a special place in the Mimi’s story, a reminder of the courage and unwavering dedication that transformed a family’s dream into a beloved Edinburgh tradition.
