Exploring the 12 Best Cafes in London
London’s vibrant culinary scene boasts an array of charming cafes that take care of every taste and preference. From cosy spots serving up delicious pastries to trendy establishments offering timeless coffees, there’s always something for everyone in bustling places.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at 12 of the best cafes in London, each offering a unique experience that keeps customers coming back for more. If you are looking for the best cafe near me, read on!
What Makes a Cafe the Best in London?
Before we delve into our list of top cafes, let’s explore what sets these cafes apart from the rest. Several factors contribute to making a cafe the best cafe in London:
Ambience
A welcoming atmosphere and cosy decor can enhance the overall dining experience.
Taste
High-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship are essential for creating delicious food and beverages.
Variety of Offerings
A diverse menu that caters to different dietary preferences and tastes is key.
Experience
Exceptional customer service and attention to detail can leave a lasting impression on patrons.
Staff
Friendly and knowledgeable staff members can elevate the dining experience.
Competitive Price
Offering value for money without compromising on quality is crucial for success.
Let’s Dive into Our List of the 12 Best Cafes in London
1. Kula Cafe
Location: St. 21 James St, London W1U 1DS, United Kingdom
Specialty: Crepes, Waffles, Pancakes, Ice cream
Experience: Over 10 years of delightful service
Kula Cafe is the best Cafe in London and has been a favourite among Londoners for over a decade, serving up a mouthwatering array of crepes, waffles, pancakes, and ice cream. Located in the heart of St. Christopher’s Place at Marylebone, this cosy family-owned creperie offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. In addition to their famous sweet treats, they also offer a selection of desi Indian breakfast, lunch, and brunch options.
2. Ole & Steen
Locations: Covent Garden, Canary Wharf, Chiswick, Hampstead
Specialty: Coffee, Cake
Experience: Super-slick ambience, delectable food
With its initial branch in Covent Garden, Ole & Steen has expanded to several locations across London, including Canary Wharf, Chiswick, and Hampstead. While the ambience may be super-slick, it’s the food that steals the show here. From wonderfully dark chocolate swirls to wickedly seductive cinnamon slices, Ole & Steen is a heaven for coffee and cake lovers alike.
3. Birdhouse
Location: Clapham
Specialty: Coffee, Sandwiches, Banana Bread
Experience: Effortlessly chilled vibe, friendly staff
Nestled in the heart of Clapham, Birdhouse exudes laid-back charm with its effortlessly chilled atmosphere. Whether you’re craving a perfect espresso or a warm slice of banana bread, this cosy coffee bar has you covered. With friendly staff, great sandwiches, and irresistible treats, Birdhouse is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Today Bread
Location: Walthamstow
Specialty: Sourdough, Artisan Coffee
Experience: Sweet little bakery in a Grade II listed building
Today Bread is a hidden gem located in Walthamstow’s Grade II listed Central Parade and included in the best cafes in London. This sweet little bakery and artisan coffee shop offers a delectable selection of sourdough bread, pastries, wraps, and salads. You can pair your meal with a freshly brewed cup of Mozzo coffee for the ultimate culinary experience.
5. Brunswick East
Location: Dalston, Hackney Downs
Specialty: Coffee, Brunch
Experience: Aussie-owned gem with cosy vibes
Located in the courtyard of Dalston’s creative hub, Brunswick East is an Aussie-owned gem that combines cosy industrial vibes with a serious attitude towards coffee. With house beans sourced from Alchemy and an enticing Antipodean-style menu, this cafe is a favourite among coffee connoisseurs. Don’t miss their ceramic exhibits and weekend brunch sessions for a truly wholesome experience.
6. Ron's
Location: Peckham
Specialty: Vegan Coffee, Plant-based Patisserie
Experience: Cosy space with delicious vegan treats
Ron’s is an all-vegan cafe located in Peckham’s Rye Lane, known for serving up the best flat white in the area. Despite its cosy space, Ron’s is big on flavour, with consistently delicious coffee and plant-based patisserie treats. Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, Ron’s has something for everyone.
7. Eggbreak
Location: Notting Hill
Specialty: Egg Dishes, Brunch
Experience: Cosy spot for egg lovers
Eggbreak is a cosy spot in Notting Hill specialising in a variety of egg dishes for breakfast and lunch. Popular among brunch enthusiasts, this charming cafe offers a range of tantalizing options, including sweet potato rösti with goat cheese and poached egg. While the wait for a table may be a bit long due to its small size, the delicious food is well worth it.
8. E Pellicci
Location: East London
Specialty: Italian Cuisine, English Breakfast
Experience: A longstanding institution since 1900
E Pellicci is a beloved institution in East London, serving up Italian cuisine and traditional English breakfasts since 1900. Managed by the third generation of the original family, this iconic restaurant is known for its friendly staff and genuine East London atmosphere. Be sure to try their Full English Breakfast for a truly authentic dining experience.
9. Violet Cakes
Location: Hackney
Specialty: Cakes, Pastries
Experience: Outstanding pastry shop led by Clair Ptak
Violet Cakes, led by the incredible Clair Ptak, is renowned for its delectable cakes and pastries. From indulgent desserts to savoury treats, this pastry shop offers something for every palate. With a diverse menu and great coffee to match, Violet Cakes is a must-visit destination for cake and pastry enthusiasts.
10. Pophams
Location: Islington
Specialty: Viennoiserie Pastries, Fresh Pasta
Experience: Artisanal bakery with hand-crafted pastries
Pophams is a well-regarded artisanal bakery and restaurant known for its hand-crafted viennoiserie pastries and fresh pasta. Whether you’re craving a classic croissant or a seasonal special, Pophams has you covered. Pair your pastry with a house blend coffee or a selection of wine from independent producers for the perfect culinary experience.
11. Nagare Coffee
Location: Shoreditch
Specialty: Japanese-inspired Coffee
Experience: Minimalistic cafe with expertly crafted beverages
Nagare Coffee is a minimalistic Japanese-inspired cafe located in Shoreditch, known for its well-sourced coffee beans and expert craftsmanship. Customers rave about the exceptional coffee and unique sweets and pastries available here. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore their curated selection of products from renowned brands, available for purchase on their website.
12. Bar Italia
Location: Soho
Specialty: Italian Coffee
Experience: Family-run institution since 1949
Bar Italia is a legendary institution in Soho, offering a true-blue Italian coffee experience since 1949. Family-run and open from 7 am until 4 am, this iconic cafe serves up rocket-fuel espresso alongside plenty of Mediterranean charm. Grab a table outside and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Frith Street while sipping on your favourite coffee beverage.
Wrap-Up!
London’s cafe scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, with each establishment offering its own unique charm and culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for a cosy brunch spot, artisanal pastries, or expertly crafted coffee, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings at one of these 12 best cafes in London.
