50 Best Cafes In London | Top Coffee Shops & Brunch (2025)
Sip, relax, and unwind at the best cafes in London. Discover charming corners, top-rated baristas, and the perfect cup across the capital.
Author:James RowleyOct 12, 202532.7K Shares697.4K Views
Top Cafes In London For Coffee And Brunch
London’s café culture has become a world of its own - a daily ritual for locals and a highlight for travelers. There are hidden roasteries on quiet streets and stately salons with chandeliers. The smell of espresso and the sound of conversation fill every part of the city.
Welcome to our definitive guide, where we cover the absolute best cafés in central Londonand beyond. From the most beautiful cafes in Londonto iconic, historic spots, here are the London Cafe namesyou need to know, featuring a curated list of the city's top-rated and Famous cafes in London.
London’s Top Coffee Shops
1. Monmouth Coffee
- Location:Covent Garden & Borough Market (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Coffee Roaster, Historic Charm
A London coffee icon since 1978, Monmouth Coffee is synonymous with quality and heritage. Their beans are sourced directly from farmers, roasted to perfection, and brewed with uncompromising precision. Expect deep, complex espresso with chocolate undertones.
Pro Tip:The queues at Borough Market can be long-but the first sip proves why locals keep coming back.
2. Kaffeine
- Location:Fitzrovia (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Specialty Coffee, Australian Minimalism
Kaffeinebrings a slice of Melbourne’s café culture to London with its clean aesthetic and consistently exceptional brews. Their flat white is a city favorite-silky, balanced, and impeccably pulled.
Why Visit:It’s one of the few places where every shot tastes deliberate, not rushed.
3. Ozone Coffee Roasters
- Location:Shoreditch, London Fields, Ludgate Hill, Creechurch Lane
- Type/Vibe:Roastery Café, Industrial-Chic, New Zealand Expertise
Ozone’s industrial-style café buzzes with energy, creativity, and the aroma of freshly roasted beans. Their brunch is just as impressive as the coffee-think poached eggs on sourdough, avocado, and a smooth filter to finish.
Pro Tip:Sit near the roaster to watch the process unfold-it’s part show, part education.
4. WatchHouse
- Location:Multiple Locations (Flagship: Bermondsey Roastery)
- Type/Vibe:Modern Coffeehouse, Design-Driven
WatchHouse redefines the modern café experience with its architectural interiors and coffee precision. Each location has its own personality, but the quality remains constant. Their seasonal single-origin filters highlight the brand’s dedication to flavor science.
Try This:The house espresso blend-balanced, bold, and beautifully extracted.
5. Origin Coffee
- Location:Southwark & Shoreditch
- Type/Vibe:B Corp Certified, Sustainable Specialty Coffee
Origin leads London’s ethical coffee movement, prioritizing sustainability, transparency, and education. The minimalist cafés invite you to slow down and savor every cup, with baristas who are true coffee educators.
Why Visit:Their pour-overs and espresso tastings are a masterclass in flavor profiling.
Also Check Out: 30 Best Restaurants In London You Need To Visit Right Now
Most Beautiful & Instagrammable Cafes In London
London’s café scene is as much about aesthetics as it is about taste. These coffee havens are where design, flavor, and atmosphere meet-making them some of the most beautiful cafés in London. Perfect for photography, brunch, or simply soaking in the ambiance.
6. EL&N London
- Location:Multiple Locations (Knightsbridge, Covent Garden, and more)
- Type/Vibe:All-Pink, Floral, Ultra-Aesthetic
EL&N Londonis the definition of café glamour. Every inch of its pink, flower-filled interiors is designed to dazzle-from neon quotes to rose walls. But this spot isn’t all about looks; its coffee is smooth and reliable, and the Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu is both vibrant and satisfying.
Pro Tip:Visit early morning to enjoy your coffee before the photo crowds arrive.
7. Peggy Jean At Riverside Richmond
- Location:Richmond (Riverside)
- Type/Vibe:Café, Brunch Spot, Riverside Dining
Set aboard a beautifully restored 1930s Oxford Blue barge, Peggy Jean at Riverside offers one of the most picturesque brunch experiences in London. Moored along the tranquil Richmond riverside, it blends Australian-inspired brunch disheswith stunning Thames views.
Favorites include buttermilk pancakes, eggs benedict, and smoked salmon platters, best enjoyed on the open deck during sunny mornings. The café’s romantic river setting and bohemian charmmake it equally ideal for couples, families, or a leisurely solo brunch with a book.
8. Hideaway COFFEE House
- Location:Soho (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Scandinavian Minimalism, Calm Escape
Hideaway brings Scandinavian serenity to the bustle of Soho. Its clean lines, neutral tones, and natural textures create an oasis of calm. The focus here is on craftsmanship-both in design and coffee. Expect refined lattes, soft jazz, and the kind of light that makes every photo glow.
Perfect For:A peaceful morning or a minimalist Instagram feed refresh.
9. Pophams
- Location:London Fields, Islington, VICTORIA PARK
- Type/Vibe:Open Bakery, Airy, Contemporary
Pophams is where pastry artistry meets modern design. The open bakery lets you watch croissants being hand-folded as golden light filters through floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s effortlessly elegant-ideal for brunch lovers and design enthusiasts alike.
Must Try:The maple and bacon swirl-London’s cult favorite pastry.
10. Lina Stores Café
- Location:Multiple Locations (Brewer StreetDelicatessen, Greek StreetRestaurant Soho, King's Cross, Marylebone)
- Type/Vibe:Italian Nostalgia, Mint-Green Chic
Lina Stores brings vintage Italian charm to the heart of London. With its mint-green décor, glossy tiles, and signature striped awnings, it’s a love letter to 1950s Italy. Sip an espresso, order a slice of focaccia, and enjoy a stylish pre-train ritual at one of the most charming cafés near King’s Cross.
Pro Tip:Pair your cappuccino with a fresh cannolo-it’s perfection.
Cozy, Quiet & Work-Friendly Cafés
London’s energy never stops-but sometimes you need a space that does. These cafés are ideal for remote work, reflective mornings, or long conversations over good coffee.
11. Attendant
- Location:Fitzrovia & Shoreditch
- Type/Vibe:Quirky, Cozy, Restored Victorian
Attendant is perhaps London’s quirkiest café concept-built inside a restored Victorian toilet, complete with preserved tiling and brass fixtures. Don’t let the novelty fool you; this place is serious about coffee. Its single-origin espresso, generous seating, and warm lighting make it perfect for writers, freelancers, or those who simply enjoy offbeat design.
Pro Tip:Grab a seat by the counter-great for people-watching and quick laptop breaks.
12. Catalyst
- Location:Holborn (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Bright, Modern, Calm
Catalystis a haven of calm in the busy Holborn area-a minimalist, light-filled space with top-tier espresso and slow-brew options. Baristas here are passionate about coffee chemistry, and the open layout makes it easy to settle in for work.
Why Go:Reliable WiFi, thoughtful service, and excellent batch brew make it one of the best cafés in Central London for productivity.
13. The Wren Coffee
- Location:City of London (St. Nicholas Cole Abbey)
- Type/Vibe:Historic, Tranquil, Spiritual
Tucked inside a beautifully restored church, The Wren Coffee is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Its high ceilings, stone arches, and calm acoustics create a sense of peace rarely found in central London. Serving Allpress coffee, it’s the perfect retreat from the financial district’s rush.
Ideal For:Deep work sessions, quiet reflection, or an atmospheric coffee break that feels worlds away from city noise.
14. Host Café
- Location:St Mary Aldermary, City of London
- Type/Vibe:Reflective, Spiritual, Historic
Host Café transforms another of London’s churches into a sanctuary for caffeine and contemplation. Beneath vaulted Gothic ceilings, the hum of espresso machines blends with faint echoes of history. Here, time slows down-a rarity in the capital.
Best Moment:Early morning, when sunlight filters through stained glass as you sip a flat white.
Brunch & Food-Lover Cafés (The Culinary Icons)
If coffee is London’s heartbeat, brunch is its weekend rhythm. These culinary cafés turn morning meals into art forms, pairing creative menus with coffee worth lingering over. They’re the places locals return to and visitors remember long after they’ve left.
15. Dishoom
- Location:Multiple Locations (Covent Garden, Shoreditch, and more)
- Type/Vibe:Bombay Café, Bustling, Nostalgic
Dishoom isn’t just a café-it’s a London institution. Inspired by the Irani cafés of old Bombay, it serves some of the most beloved breakfasts in the city. The signature Bacon Naan Rolland house chai have achieved cult status.
Pro Tip:Arrive early to skip the queues and soak in the warm, vintage charm that makes this one of the most famous cafés in London.
16. Granger & Co
- Location:Chelsea & King’s Cross, Notting Hill, Marylebone
- Type/Vibe:Australian Chic, Bright, Sociable
Founded by Australian chef Bill Granger, this café feels like sunshine on a plate. Its iconic Ricotta Hotcakesare soft, cloud-like perfection, complemented by flat whites that rival any specialty coffeehouse.
Why Visit:Perfect for relaxed weekend brunches, where conversation flows as easily as the espresso.
17. Caravan
- Location:Exmouth Market & Bankside
- Type/Vibe:Roastery, Globally Inspired, Industrial Cool
Caravan combines a coffee roastery, restaurant, and global flavor lab all in one. Expect vibrant dishes like jalapeño cornbread or shakshuka alongside house-roasted beans. The energy here is infectious-buzzy yet welcoming.
Pro Tip:Ask about their single-origin espresso; they roast it on-site, and it changes seasonally.
18. The Riding House Café
- Location:Fitzrovia (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Modern, Social, Stylish
Part restaurant, part neighborhood hangout, The Riding House Café is the definition of London brunch culture. Think: leather banquettes, artisan cocktails, and hearty plates like chorizo hash or pancakes with maple butter.
Ideal For:Long, chatty brunches with friends where you forget what time it is.
19. Esters
- Location:Stoke Newington
- Type/Vibe:Neighborhood Treasure, Seasonal, Minimalist
Esters is a north London favorite that captures the quiet joy of good food made well. Seasonal ingredients drive its inventive menu-expect combinations like roasted squash with labneh or rhubarb compote with house granola. Everything feels crafted with care.
Why Locals Love It:Its sincerity-great coffee, great company, and plates that change with the seasons.
20. The Fields Beneath
- Location:Kentish Town
- Type/Vibe:Vegan, Eco-Conscious, Heartfelt
Tucked beneath Kentish Town station, The Fields Beneath is one of London’s pioneering vegan cafés. Everything on the menu is plant-based, from velvety oat lattes to croissants made without compromise. It’s proof that sustainability and indulgence can coexist beautifully.
Must Try:The vegan cinnamon bun-it’s comfort food reimagined.
Hidden Gems & Community Favorites
These independent cafés embody the local spirit of London-unpretentious, full of warmth, and loved by their neighborhoods. They may not make every tourist guide, but locals know these spots are the city’s true caffeine treasures.
21. Mouse Tail Coffee
- Location:Peckham & Bermondsey
- Type/Vibe:Local Favorite, Community Feel
A South London staple that’s all about community. Mouse Tail roasts its own beans in small batches, serving consistently smooth espresso and exceptional cold brew. The cozy vibe and friendly staff make it feel like your neighborhood living room.
22. Second Shot Coffee
- Location:Marylebone & Bethnal Green
- Type/Vibe:Social Enterprise
This isn’t just great coffee-it’s coffee with purpose. Second Shot hires and trains people affected by homelessness, helping them rebuild their lives while serving some of the finest flat whites in London. Every cup supports a cause, and that’s reason enough to visit.
23. Devine Restaurant Coffee Bar
- Location:Fenchurch Street
- Type/Vibe:Café, European
Few cafés achieve a perfect 5.0-star rating, but Devine does it with style. Loved for its hearty European breakfasts, friendly service, and unbeatable value, it’s a rare gem in East London. Expect freshly baked croissants, quality espresso, and warm hospitality.
24. Drury N4 Manor House | Café & Brunch
- Location:Manor House (N4)
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, American Brunch
Hidden away near Finsbury Park, Drury N4 is a brunch lover’s haven. Locals rave about its pistachio cream dishes and indulgent pancakes. The calm, plant-filled interior and small-community feel make it a rewarding escape from central London’s bustle.
25. Morr
- Location:Islington
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, Contemporary Café
A rising star in Islington’s café scene, Morr blends minimalist design with a warm, personal touch. Their Turkish eggs and smooth lattes are already local legends. It’s the kind of spot you hesitate to share-because you secretly want to keep it all to yourself.
26. Tea Darling Refreshingly Vintage
- Location:114 Churchfield Rd, London W3 6BY, United Kingdom
- Type/Vibe:Café, British, Vintage
A charmingly nostalgic spot known for its fabulous cakes and warm, homely welcome. True to its name, Tea Darling exudes vintage elegance-from mismatched china to floral décor. Every visit feels like a trip back to Britain’s golden tearoom era.
27. Kennington Lane Café
- Location:Kennington / Vauxhall (1 min from tube)
- Type/Vibe:Classic British “Caff,” Mediterranean Influence
A London legend that perfectly balances affordability and flavor. The Full English Breakfast is iconic-hearty, honest, and cooked to perfection. Expect big portions, friendly banter, and a slice of traditional London café culture that refuses to fade.
28. Urban Social
- Location:Islington (Upper Street)
- Type/Vibe:Quick Bites, Café, Trendy Brunch Spot
Stylish yet down-to-earth, Urban Social captures the energy of North London’s creative crowd. Known for its excellent specialty coffee and vibrant brunch menu, it’s a go-to for locals who want both flavor and flair. The cozy back section and outdoor terrace are perfect for relaxed weekend mornings.
29. Drury 188-189 Covent Garden
- Location:Covent Garden (Central London)
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, Café, Wine Bar
A refined yet relaxed spot that effortlessly transitions from coffee haven to wine bar. Famous for its Baklava Pancake, Drury 188-189 combines rich flavors with a sleek atmosphere. It’s regularly ranked among London’s top 10 cafés-and rightfully so.
30. Regency Café
- Location:Westminster (near Pimlico)
- Type/Vibe:Classic British, Quick Bites
Instantly recognizable from its cinematic appearances (including Layer Cakeand Brighton Rock), Regency Café is a piece of living London history. Its art deco interior, booming counter service, and perfectly fried breakfasts define the quintessential British “greasy spoon” experience.
31. Tania’s Of Hampstead
- Location:Hampstead
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, Lebanese, Hidden Gem
Nestled in Hampstead’s quiet backstreets, Tania’s is one of those cafés you almost don’t want to tell anyone about. Serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes and aromatic coffee, it’s a tiny spot brimming with warmth, character, and authentic charm.
32. Nora Café
- Location:(Exact location not listed)
- Type/Vibe:Café, Warm & Welcoming
A cozy local favorite where hospitality shines as brightly as the coffee. Known for the best pancakes in townand the warmest welcome from owner Nora, this café feels like visiting an old friend who just happens to make perfect brunch.
33. 215 Hackney
- Location:Hackney
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, Café, Creative Brunch Spot
A Hackney standout blending artful presentation with comforting flavors. The Baklawa French Toastis a showstopper-sweet, nutty, and utterly unique. Ideal for foodies who want to experience Hackney’s modern café scene at its best.
34. Double J’s Café
- Location:333 Euston Rd., London NW1 3AD, United Kingdom
- Type/Vibe:Café, European
Double J’s Cafe is a warm, family-run spot in the heart of Euston, Central London, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and homely charm. The menu features an irresistible mix of all-day breakfasts, fluffy pancakes, hearty brunches, and satisfying lunches - all freshly prepared with care and flavor in mind. Every dish reflects the cafe’s passion for quality food and genuine hospitality.
35. Café De Provence
- Location:Covent Garden (Central London, beneath Travelodge)
- Type/Vibe:Café, European, Neighborhood Gem
Hidden in plain sight, this Covent Garden gem delivers old-world charm and delicious European fare. A peaceful haven amid the bustle of Central London-locals praise its authenticity, affordability, and consistently warm service.
36. Tattle Coffee House
- Location:Lost Property St Paul's London
- Type/Vibe:Coffee & Tea, Café
Tattle Coffee House, nestled inside the Lost Property Hotel near St Paul’s Cathedral, is one of Central London’s most inviting coffee hideaways. Known for its freshly ground coffee, fine teas, and artisanal pastries, this café pairs indulgence with style.
Guests can unwind on plush furniture, surrounded by curious artwork and a warm, modern interior that encourages conversation and calm.
37. Wild Thyme
- Location:2b Thorpebank Rd, London W12 0PQ
- Type/Vibe:Café, European, Brunch
Tucked away on a quiet street in Shepherd’s Bush, Wild Thyme offers a warm, intimate dining experience that blends creativity with comfort. By day, it’s a beloved brunch spot serving elevated takes on classics, and by evening, it transforms into a relaxed restaurant featuring small plates perfect for sharing.
Each dish is thoughtfully crafted with inventive twists, balancing tradition and modern flair to deliver a sensory dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting.
38. Heavenly Desserts Marylebone
- Location:Marylebone
- Type/Vibe:Dessert Café, Modern & Elegant
A dessert-lover’s dream, this café serves indulgent French toast, artisan waffles, and rich hot chocolates. The interiors match the menu-luxurious yet welcoming. Perfect for a late-night treat or a cozy weekend date.
39. Café Phillies
- Location:Kensington
- Type/Vibe:Café, European, Italian Influence
Kensington’s long-time brunch favorite, blending European flair with local charm. Expect Italian-inspired dishes, a stylish yet comfortable setting, and friendly regulars who make this spot feel like a local institution.
40. The English Rose Café
- Location:Belgravia (near Buckingham Palace)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British, Vintage Tea Room
Just steps from Buckingham Palace, this delightful tearoom captures classic British elegance. Famous for scones, finger sandwiches, and floral china, it’s one of the most Instagrammable traditional cafés in London-a perfect stop after a royal sightseeing stroll.
41. Sheila’s Café
- Location:Paddington (Craven Terrace)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British, Local Classic
A hidden gem near Paddington Station, beloved for its strong coffee, warm pastries, and comforting British fare. The atmosphere is unfussy and cheerful-exactly what a local café should be. Perfect for a pre-train breakfast or relaxed mid-morning stop.
42. Pimlico Fresh
- Location:Pimlico
- Type/Vibe:Quick Bites, Friendly Café
A neighborhood favorite known citywide for the best French toast in London. Expect hearty portions, chatty locals, and a friendly team that remembers your order. Great for brunch lovers looking for substance over show.
43. Cappadocia Café & Bistro
- Location:King’s Cross
- Type/Vibe:Café, European
A reliable King’s Cross spotthat’s earned loyal fans for its consistently great Eggs Royaleand cozy, casual vibe. Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic café meal near the station without tourist prices.
44. Dulce Café & Kitchen
- Location:Aldgate East (Whitechapel High Street)
- Type/Vibe:Café, International, Family-Owned
A family-run treasureserving global comfort food in a relaxed setting. Locals love it for its fresh ingredients, affordable prices, and genuine hospitality. It’s the kind of café where lunch stretches into conversation.
45. Café Maya
- Location:Farringdon (near Smithfield Market)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British
Known for its perfectly executed avocado toast with poached eggs, Café Maya is a breakfast favorite among office regulars and market-goers alike. A bright, inviting space where simple food shines.
46. Beck’s Café
- Location:Holborn (Red Lion Street)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British, “Greasy Spoon” Classic
A true London institution, Beck’s serves hearty British breakfasts, strong tea, and no-nonsense comfort food. The perfect place for a Full English with character, served by staff who’ve seen it all and still greet you with a smile.
47. Chunnel Bar
- Location:Lower Marsh (Waterloo)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British
This Waterloo gem keeps things simple and satisfying. Everything is freshly cooked with top-quality ingredients, from bacon sandwiches to homemade pies. It’s the kind of place locals swear by - unpretentious, affordable, and genuinely good.
48. Liz Café
- Location:Shepherd’s Bush
- Type/Vibe:Café, British, Neighborhood Favorite
A cozy, family-run café where tradition meets modern flair. Expect comforting British dishes with a homemade touch, and friendly staff who make every visit feel personal. A must-stop for brunch before exploring Shepherd’s Bush Market.
49. Café Parisienne
- Location:Lavender Hill (Battersea)
- Type/Vibe:Café, International, European Twist
Bright, friendly, and full of charm, Café Parisienne stands out for its excellent service and beautifully presented dishes. Locals rave about the international breakfast menu and the welcoming atmosphere that feels like a mini holiday in Battersea.
50. Little Wonder Café
- Location:Holloway (near Emirates Stadium)
- Type/Vibe:Café, British
This classic North London caféis a fan favorite among Arsenal supporters and locals alike. Known for generous portions, fair prices, and genuine hospitality, it’s the perfect post-match pitstop for a comforting meal and a good cuppa.
FAQs About Best Cafes In London
What Is The Most Popular Coffee In London?
Flat whites and oat-milk lattes dominate most menus, reflecting London’s Australian-influenced café scene. Specialty pour-overs and cold brews are gaining popularity among coffee aficionados.
What Are The Most Charming Cafés In London?
For charm, think Attendant, The Wren, or Saint Aymes- each offers distinct character, from quirky conversions to floral fantasy.
What Are The Most Instagrammable Cafés In London?
EL&N, Saint Aymes, and Farm Girl are the go-to destinations for Instagram shots, combining design artistry with great food.
What Is The Most Popular Coffee Shop In The UK?
Monmouth Coffee consistently tops UK rankings for quality and legacy, with branches that attract both locals and global coffee fans.
What Is The Most Expensive Coffee In London?
Specialty cafés like Kiss the Hippoand The Gentlemen Baristasoccasionally serve rare beans such as Panama Geisha - where a single cup can exceed £15.
Do Cafés In London Allow Pets?
Many do, especially neighbourhood cafés. Farm Girland WatchHouseare pet-friendly and even provide water bowls for dogs.
What Time Do Most Cafés Close In London?
Most close around 5–6 PM, though some like Ozoneand Caravanstay open later for dinner or evening coffee.
Which Cafes In London Offer Vegan Options?
Cafes like Farmacy, The Fields Beneath, and Palm Vaults are popular choices for vegan coffee lovers.
Where Can I Find The Best Cafes With A View In London?
The Sky Garden Cafe and Duck & Waffle offer some of the best views in the city alongside excellent coffee.
Which Cafes Are Good For Remote Working?
Timberyard and Forge & Co are known for their workspace-friendly environments, with ample seating and Wi-Fi for remote workers.
Conclusion
London’s cafes are much more than places to grab a quick coffee, they’re destinations that reflect the soul of the city. With each cafe offering its own personality, there’s always something new to experience.
The combination of exceptional coffee, comfortable settings, and community spirit makes London's cafes stand out. No matter your taste or reason for visiting, the city’s cafe scene promises to leave you inspired and refreshed.
Related Reading: 60 Best Rooftop Bars In London | Drink With A View & Vibe
James Rowley
Author
James Rowley is a London-based writer and urban explorer specialising in the city’s cultural geography. For over 15 years, he has documented the living history of London's neighbourhoods through immersive, first-hand reporting and original photography. His work foregrounds verified sources and street-level detail, helping readers look past tourist clichés to truly understand the character of a place.
His features and analysis have appeared in established travel and heritage publications. A passionate advocate for responsible, research-led tourism, James is an active member of several professional travel-writing associations.
His guiding principle is simple: offer clear, current, verifiable advice that helps readers see the capital with informed eyes.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles