The Magdalen

This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of visiting the West End staple, The Tartan Cafe. I was greeted by the one of the Cafe’s supervisors, Kyle, and was quickly sat down with one of the owners, Gail.

To many, the Tartan Cafe is a cosy and welcoming nook that can be used to catch up with friends, to have a study session or a place for a really satisfying hot chocolate. I was able to have a chat with Gail to understand why this place was bought by her and her husband in early 2024. When the couple bought the Dundee institution, they had debated changing the name of the cafe but decided to stick with the original as the cafe is colloquially and fondly known as ‘The Tartan Cafe’. When I asked about the acquisition of the eatery Gail said that they hadn’t been planning or looking for anything but the “stars had aligned”. Gail also informed me that the cafe used to be a wine shop and grocers, which explains its old but comfortable feel.

The Tartan Cafe also happens to be on the doorsteps of the University of Dundee campus and offers a 10% discount for both Abertay and Dundee university student and staff members, all you need to do is flash your ID card! Gail herself used to work at the University of Dundee before working for the V&A as the philanthropy manager and so understands the stress of the recent financial crisis. Gail states that the 10% discount for both staff and students is a nice gesture she is happy to give. She and her husband aim to create a relaxed atmosphere where students can come and have a cake, coffee and a break from busy university life. They also have plans to work with university societies like the Contemporary Art Practice Society and would love to collaborate with other societies in the future. On top of working with societies, the cafe would also like to hold pop-up supper clubs and local produce as well as the art pieces they have dotted around the establishment.

When asked about the relationships built and maintained with the staff and people of the community Gail says that she is a people person, she enjoys coming to the cafe and mingling with the regulars and the staff. Most of the staff are either students from nearby secondary schools or from the universities. Her own daughter works as a waitress in the cafe, really solidifying the cafe as a family-run establishment.

It was really lovely getting to meet the owners of the cafe, especially as it has been one of my favourite places to come for a break during a full-on study day in the library. I sincerely hope I get to see more out of the cafe soon.