Coffee Shops London
The best coffee shops.
Prufrock Coffee stands as London's premier specialty coffee destination. World-class baristas crafting exceptional drinks using a rotating selection of globally-sourced beans. The industrial-meets-retro space, anchored by its striking turquoise-tiled bar, gives off an atmosphere that's both sophisticated and welcoming. Beyond their renowned Square Mile espresso, they offer three different filter coffees daily, alongside outstanding brunch options and artisanal pastries (don't miss their legendary cinnamon buns). While it can get busy, especially on weekends, the best time to visit is mid-morning on weekdays for the fullest coffee selection and a chance to chat with their remarkably knowledgeable staff.
Qima Cafe brings a slice of Yemeni coffee culture to London's Fitzrovia, elevating the everyday coffee run into something extraordinary. Their signature Yemeni brioche and artisanal pain suisse have earned cult status among London's pastry enthusiasts, while their perfectly calibrated matcha lattes offer a less-sweet alternative to traditional café drinks. The clean, modern space creates a cozy yet sophisticated vibe that invites lingering. Though compact, this hidden gem delivers an impressive combo of exceptional service and picture-perfect pastries. Pro tip: Visit early to snag their baked goods – they tend to sell out fast among devoted regulars.
Omotesando is where London meets Tokyo's minimalist coffee culture. This Japanese-inspired cafe brings zen-like tranquility to the busy city, with its understated wooden interior and picture-perfect window seating. Their signature iced matcha latte stands out as one of London's finest, featuring a distinct, natural flavor that matcha enthusiasts swear by. The calming background music and fresh aromas of coffee create an almost meditative experience.
Nostos Coffee brings neighborhood charm to Battersea Park with its dog-friendly space that locals can't stop raving about. Their toasted banana bread has achieved cult status among regulars, while their expertly crafted espresso drinks come with a choice of specialty beans and detailed tasting notes. It's a tiny 12-seat space that buzzes with friendly chatter and welcomes four-legged friends so arrive early to get a spot inside.
Formative Coffee, tucked between Victoria and Buckingham Palace in the heart of Westminster, stands out as one of London's most sophisticated specialty coffee destinations. The modern, light-filled space captivates with its high ceilings and minimalist design. Serving exceptional single-origin coffees that have earned a reputation among the city's most discerning coffee enthusiasts. The signature marmalade filter coffee offers a uniquely fruity flavor profile that showcases their commitment to craft brewing. While this spot stays surprisingly peaceful on weekends, weekday mornings can get busy – aim to visit before 11:30am to secure one of their coveted spots. Inside tip: there's no WiFi or restrooms available, but plenty of charging points which make it ideal for working offline without the usual cafe crowds.
Batch Baby in De Beauvoir Town is revolutionizing London's coffee scene with their monthly rotating roster of international coffee roasters. This retro-styled café feels like hanging out in your cool friend's living room, complete with ultra-comfy vintage couches and and lo-fi soundtrack. Coffee connoisseurs flock here for their expertly crafted drinks, from perfectly balanced flat whites to specialty filter coffees. Grab a slice of their famous babka and snag a spot in their sun-drenched outdoor seating area – just make sure to pick the brains of their passionate baristas about this month's featured roasters. A true coffee lover's playground that's definitely worth the East London trek.
Door Coffee's location in Brixton is both a roastery (Assembly Roasters) and café. They've mastered the art of pour-over coffee, offering an ever-changing selection of single-origin beans in sleek, gift-worthy packaging. The compact space doubles as a coffee education hub, where passionate baristas guide you through their carefully curated menu of filter coffees. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or curious novice, this gem south of the river is worth seeking out.
Colonna & Small's brings their legendary Bath coffee expertise to London's buzzing Leather Lane in Farringdon, establishing itself as a true coffee nerd's paradise. Their innovative freezer menu preserves rare and special roasts for comparison tastings, while their signature lungo technique showcases their obsession with coffee craftsmanship. The intimate space features charming touches transported from their Bath location, including their iconic coffee plant artwork. Ask the incredibly knowledgeable baristas about their current bean selection – they'll happily geek out about tasting notes and brewing methods. For the ultimate specialty coffee experience don't miss their expertly prepared seasonal roasts and the chance to take home some exceptional beans.
Rosslyn Coffee on Queen Victoria Street brings specialty coffee excellence to the City of London and is an insider-favorite. This modern space near St Paul's Cathedral buzzes with energy as expert baristas serve exceptional pour-overs and their signature soft serve ice cream draws in the crowds during the summer months. While it's mainly takeaway-focused, snag one of the window tables to people-watch with a perfectly brewed cup of joe. Inside tip: The Peruvian roasts earns rave reviews.
Kiss the Hippo Coffee's Fitzrovia location is a corner stone of London's specialty coffee scene with their meticulous approach to single-origin brewing. This modern, split-level café showcases expert baristas crafting perfectly pulled espressos and silky flat whites using state-of-the-art equipment. The bright, contemporary space draws coffee enthusiasts and creative professionals alike, while their rotating selection of freshly baked goods (don't miss the banana bread) complements the carefully sourced beans. Just an 8-minute walk from Oxford Circus.
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