Looking for a gathering of the best cafes and coffee shops in London? Our hand-picked guide was built with exactly you in mind. Brimming with independent outlets, kooky hangouts and welcoming pit-stops ideal for both work and play, there's no shortage of options for your caffeine fix in the capital. We've picked out a selection of our favourites - go get stuck into our recommended quirky London cafes for all your coffee and cake needs.
Last updated on 3rd July 2018
Located near Tower Bridge, The Gentlemen Baristas Union Street is an informal and traditional take on a coffee shop. The cute and intimate space will feature two floors; the ground floor will be perfect for after-work drinks and charcuterie boards, while upstairs will be seasonal meals.
From coffee to gin, White Post Cafe is a relaxed and flexible hang-out in Hackney. The venue frequently puts on fun nights with live music and events, head there during the day for a delicious cake by The Flour Station, or try dinner at the artist-decorated bar. It is also the only spot in The Wick to have a terrace directly on the towpath.
Sitting pretty tucked around the corner from King's Cross, Drink Shop Do is a cafe by day and bar by night, with plenty of quirky happenings to look forward to in between. Make yourself at home in their welcoming ground floor cafe space, where specialty coffees and teas wash down a menu of 'delicious things on toast' as well as a selection of stylish and flavoursome lighter plates.
Rounding off our list of the best London cafes is Ask For Janice, an open and inviting pad that you'll find in Farringdon. Opening bright and early for breakfast, select between house cured treacle bacon, free range eggs and freshly made crumpets at AFJ, where the focus is on sharing. The atmosphere is serene, coffee comes courtesy of Coleman Roasters and Chandler Bing's shrill ex-girlfriend is nowhere to be seen.
If you're looking for one of the best cafes in London to work from, Out Of Office is your calling card. Home of laidback lounging and independent boozing, this unique space is a hot-desking hub for workers looking to complete assignments in an easygoing coffee shop setting. Specialty coffees and teas from Good & Proper are the key to a relaxed, 'working from home' vibe, and there's a good spread of independent beers, craft brews and artisan spirits if you fancy hanging around past 5pm.
Just a stone's throw away from both Victoria and St Jame's Park, not only is The Royal Quarter a hot spot for those looking to tuck into their selection of unique, epicurean dishes, those wanting a quick croissant over a coffee will enjoy the casual space.
Smith's relaxed and inviting nature makes it one of the top cafes in London to study. Immerse yourself in these Grade II listed surroundings and hit the books, the comfy leather seating, raw brickwork and industrial touches exude a super chilled out feel. The caf serves up a mean cup of coffee as well as a menu that features all-day breakfast and several lighter bites.
If there was ever a cafe to get your day off to a flying start, The Breakfast Club is it. Renowned throughout London for their exhaustive breakfast menu (you can get everything from a breakfast burrito to stacks upon stacks of pancakes), this Battersea gem is inspired by a 50s kitchen and an 80s launderette. Pop in for a coffee any time of day and don't forget to ask for a date with the King of Ladies Man...
