London, known globally for its multicultural and diverse atmosphere, is home to an array of unique cafes, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to England. With everything from quirky independents to popular chains, there’s something for everyone.
Having spent a lot of time in London for both personal and work reasons, I’ve developed a list of favorite cafes and coffee shops. London is buzzing with activities, so staying caffeinated is a good idea.
Here are some of the top cafes in London, chosen for their digital-nomad-friendliness, location, menu variety, and reviews:
Monmouth Coffee Company
Perfect for a quick coffee in a British setting, Monmouth Coffee Company serves delicious coffees and locally-produced baked goods. Head to their original store on Monmouth Street in Covent Garden to enjoy the cozy atmosphere and excellent service. Note that seating is limited, but you can take home ground coffee beans.
Address: 27 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9EU
Operating Hours: 8 am – 6 pm Mon-Sat, closed on Sundays
Must-Try Items: Filter coffee, iced latte, almond croissant
How Matcha!
For those who prefer matcha, How Matcha! offers a variety of delicious matcha-based drinks. The cafe stands out with its pastel-pink and green decor, making it one of London’s most Instagrammable spots. Though primarily a matcha shop, it also sells coffee and brunch items.
Address: 47 Blandford St, London W1U 7HJ
Operating Hours: 8 am – 6 pm Mon-Fri, 10 am – 6 pm Sun
Must-Try Items: Iced matcha latte with oat milk, ‘Glow’, smoked salmon bagel
Prufrock Coffee
Prufrock Coffee, located in central London, offers a great workspace with cozy booths and well-trained baristas. While their coffee is highly recommended, the food menu is the true highlight. Try the ‘Prufrock Benny’, their unique take on Eggs Benedict.
Address: 23-25 Leather Ln, London EC1N 7TE
Operating Hours: 7:30 am- 4:30 pm Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Prufrock Benny, Fruit Waffles, Mocha
Ozone Coffee
Originating from New Zealand, Ozone Coffee is known for its sustainable food options and exceptional coffee. Their Shoreditch location is a favorite, especially for their single-origin filter coffee options, which change weekly.
Address: 11 Leonard St, London EC2A 4AQ
Operating Hours: 7:30 am- 4:30 pm Mon-Fri, 8:30 am – 5 pm Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Essex beef mince on wholemeal brioche, single-origin filter coffee, long macchiato
Pavilion
Pavilion’s flagship store in Victoria Park is perfect for picturesque views. Enjoy a house chai or a Sri Lankan-inspired meal while soaking in the scenery. This dog-friendly cafe also offers ice cream from their takeaway hatch.
Address: Victoria Park, Old Ford Rd., London E9 7DE
Operating Hours: 7 am-5 pm Mon – Fri, 8 am – 6 pm Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Fresh bread, house chai, seasonal toasties
Host Cafe
One of the quirkiest coffee shops, Host Cafe operates within a Gothic church. Enjoy specialty coffees and home-baked cakes in a serene setting of stained glass windows. It’s also a great spot to work from, offering time slots for extended work periods.
Address: St Mary Aldermary, Watling St, London EC4M 9BW
Operating Hours: 7:30 am – 4 pm Mon-Fri, closed on weekends
Must-Try Items: Pastel de nata, latte, seasonal soups
C A Japanese Pancakes
Located in Victoria, this cafe is famous for its Japanese-style souffle pancakes. It serves a wide range of brunch items and coffees. Due to its popularity, booking ahead is advisable.
Address: 324 Vauxhall Bridge Rd, London SW1P 1NH
Operating Hours: 9 am – 7 pm Mon, 9 am – 8 pm Tue – Sun
Must-Try Items: Classic souffle pancakes, Avo Burrata, Hot White Chocolate.
Kaffeine
Inspired by the coffee culture of Australia and New Zealand, Kaffeine offers specialty coffees and home-cooked food at their two locations in Fitzrovia. The seasonal menu includes salads, quiches, and sweet treats.
Address: 66 Great Titchfield St., London W1W 7QJ
Operating Hours: 7:30 am – 5 pm Mon – Fri, 8:30 am – 5 pm Sat, 9 am – 5pm Sun
Must-Try Items: Espresso, filled croissants, seasonal salads
Monocle Cafe
Known for its intimate setting and extensive coffee menu, Monocle Cafe is perfect for business meetings or a cozy coffee break. The specialty matcha and mint teas are popular, along with their delectable sandwiches.
Address: 18 Chiltern St, London W1U 7QA
Operating Hours: 7 am- 7 pm Mon – Fri, 8 am – 7 pm Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Matcha latte, egg mayo sandwich, pastries
Attendant Coffee Roasters
Set in a restored Victorian public convenience, this unique coffee shop in Fitzrovia offers a fascinating historical setting. It’s small, so seats are first-come-first-served.
Address: 27A Foley St, London W1W 6DY
Operating Hours: 8 am – 4 pm Mon – Fri, 9 am – 4 pm Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Seasonal drinks, Build-A-Brunch, Banana Toast
Kahaila
A community-centered cafe, Kahaila offers ethically sourced menu items. It’s perfect for a break with sweet and savory treats. Don’t miss their famous red velvet cake.
Address: 135 Brick Ln, London E1 6SB
Operating Hours: 9 am – 6 pm Mon – Sun
Must-Try Items: Red velvet cake, cappuccino, sausage brioche roll
EL&N
Dubbed the most Instagrammable cafe, EL&N is known for its bright pink decor and impressive latte art. The Park Lane location offers a memorable experience with items like warmed Lotus Biscoff milk and French toast.
Address: 48 Park Ln, London W1K 1PR
Operating Hours: 7:30 am – 12 am Mon – Sun
Must-Try Items: Biscoff and banana french toast, pistachio pesto pasta, warmed lotus Biscoff milk
GAIL’s
Starting in Hampstead Heath in 2005, GAIL’s now has multiple locations. Known for its house blend coffees and freshly baked goods, it’s a great spot to work or grab a quick bite.
Address: 64 Hampstead High St, London NW3 1QH
Operating Hours: 6:30 am – 7:30 pm Mon – Fri, 6:30 am – 7 pm Sat, 7 am – 6:30 pm Sun
Must-Try Items: House blend coffee, almond croissant, mozzarella, tomato & pesto focaccia
Terry’s Cafe London
A family-owned British institution, Terry’s Cafe offers no-frills, hearty meals. Known for its classic fry-ups and Monmouth Coffee Company’s brews, it’s a favorite among locals.
Address: 158 Great Suffolk St, London SE1 0DT
Operating Hours: 7:30 am – 3 pm Mon – Sun
Must-Try Items: ‘The Works’ full English breakfast, steak & eggs, pink dragon fruit latte
Notes Coffee Roasters
With 14 venues across London, Notes offers specialty coffee, craft beers, and wines. The stores, like the one near the Bank, serve as ideal spots for both meeting friends and working.
Address: 1A Angel Ct, London EC2R 7HJ
Operating Hours: 7 am- 6 pm Mon, 7 am – 5 pm Tue-Thu, 7 am – 2 pm Fri, closed Sat & Sun
Must-Try Items: Goat cheese, walnuts & honey on toast, mezze sharing board, coffee flight
No matter where you go in London, a delicious coffee is never far away. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a coffee connoisseur, or just looking to explore, there’s a place for everyone in London’s vibrant cafe scene.
