Cafe Tazza (Helmi’s Cakes)

Inside Cafe Tazza (Helmi’s Cakes)

Cafe Tazza (Helmi’s Cakes) is a cozy, riverside café nestled on E Princes Street in Rothesay, offering a warm and inviting environment that suits both locals and visitors exploring the Isle of Bute. Its interior is softly colored, adding to the relaxed, intimate vibe that encourages lingering over coffee or a casual bite.

This spot is best known for its varied breakfast and lunch offerings with a noticeable Middle Eastern flair—its Syrian breakfast draws positive attention for fresh, flavorful ingredients and generous portions that make for a memorable start to the day. The café manages to balance a diverse menu ranging from wraps filled with chicken shawarma or falafel to more classic café options like croissants enhanced with unique fillings such as pistachio or chicken, appealing to a wide range of tastes including vegetarians.

Coffee at Cafe Tazza is clearly a highlight, with visitors often choosing distinctive brews like Arabic coffee or settling in with rich hot chocolate—perfect for setting a cozy morning or afternoon mood. The combination of well-crafted drinks and a thoughtful sweet selection, including lemon meringue and strawberry tarts, provides something enjoyable beyond the usual café fare.

The friendly nature of the staff stands out, making the café particularly welcoming to groups and families, even accommodating babies with care. Its setting facing the river adds a gentle, peaceful backdrop, making quieter times—like weekday mornings or early afternoons—ideal for anyone wanting a break from busier tourist spots.

Whether you're dropping in for a mid-morning coffee, a hearty breakfast with a local twist, or a casual lunch paired with one of their fresh cakes, Cafe Tazza offers a genuinely relaxed atmosphere. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate attentive service, a calm environment, and a menu that reflects more than just mainstream café choices. Locals seem to enjoy it as a welcoming place to meet with friends or recharge while taking in the laid-back charm of Rothesay’s riverside streets.

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

What Locals & Travelers Say

46 Reviews

Christian Stärtzel

03 Jan 2026

We walked by Tazza by chance and immediately had to go in because it looked wonderfully cozy (love the colours). They have really good coffee (I tried the Arabic Coffee and it was fantastic) and excellent sweet treats, I recommend having the Lemon Meringue. Our wee one was really happy to get a delicious Hot Chocolate loaded with little Marshmallows. What I liked in addition to that was that we got a free glass of water each without even having to ask. Also loved the friendliness of everyone there, the first impression did not disappoint, and we will definitely return.

Rachel Sweeney

01 Jan 2026

A must visit when in Bute. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, and made a lot of effort to accommodate our group of seven with a baby. The food was delicious and for a brilliant price. I had the syrian breakfast (pictured) which was excellent, and they were more than happy to cater for me as a vegetarian.

Yvonne Thomas

28 Nov 2025

Just had a delicious Syrian breakfast here. A different start to our day. Would highly recommend. Very fresh and tasty ingredients, delicious coffee and a wonderful warm friendly welcome from the new owners. We will definitely go back. As you can see we demolished our breakfast.

Rosangela

25 Oct 2025

Beautiful and romantic place. Quiet place facing the river. Extremely polite and kind staff. I loved visiting the place and it was very tasty. I recommend it and thank you

Ande Barlow

17 Oct 2025

Wow - what a find! I was in Bute for 2 days and had lunch, a cake visit and then the following day really enjoyed their Syrian breakfast - lots of plates of loveliness!! If you visit Bute, it's a great place to visit with a menu that'll suit everyone. I'll be back sometime - I never tried any of their strawberry tarts and they looked delicious

Carol Griffiths

13 Oct 2025

Recommended by fellow coach trippers so we visited Sunday Morning. The hummus and bread was amazing - so fresh and a generous portion. The scone with jam and butter was also top quality. The black coffee was excellent and the staff so friendly. A must do when in town.

Bridget Trussell

05 Oct 2025

Delicious cakes & food. The doughnut was declared as “the best ever”. Lovely staff. Bought a few bakes to take home as well.

Inside Cafe Tazza (Helmi’s Cakes)

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

What Locals & Travelers Say

46 Reviews

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