We all love a good cafe trip, but often the problem is that they close mid-afternoon. For all the night owls out there, a coffee spot that's open well into the evening is the dream. And luckily, there are several places across London where you can get your caffeine fix past 9pm.
We've picked out the very best late night cafes London has to offer in this guide, from chilled destinations serving delicious cakes to cool venues that transition from hot drinks to cocktails in the evening. Everywhere in this list is open until at least 10pm, so no worries about early closing times here.
Best London Night Cafes
1. London Night Cafe
- Location: 56 Middlesex Street, Aldgate, E1 7EZ
- Open until: 3am Sunday-Thursday, 5am Friday
- Why we recommend: this is the only cafe in London that's completely nighttime-focused, promising a chill atmosphere throughout the evening rather than turning into more of a bar
This City destination is truly one of a kind. London Night Cafe generally doesn't open until 6pm and stays open through to at least 3am, creating a dedicated space for night owls to come and get some work done or simply enjoy a wholesome and calm evening.
They've created a cosy atmosphere thanks to the sofas, low lighting and pretty plants, with a futuristic feel to some of the decor. The stimulating environment is designed to get those creative juices flowing, whether you're reading, writing, doing some art or planning your next big project. They charge an entry fee of £7, or £10 on Fridays, which includes complimentary tea, coffee and wifi.
Make yourself at home in this cost late-night den.
2. The Bridge
- Location: 15 Kingsland Road, Hoxton, E2 8AA
- Open until: 3am
- Why we recommend: we love the retro, US-inspired decor, and as they're open until 3am, this is one of the latest-open coffee spots in the city
An ultra-late night cafe bar in Hoxton, The Bridge is open until 3am every day. The main appeal here is their freshly roasted coffee beans from a 1940s coffee roaster, which can be used in everything from a cappuccino to an espresso martini.
The US-inspired vintage theme continues throughout their interior, with all sorts of antiques dotted around the venue. There's a speakeasy-style room where they host love music, while the main seating area promises a chilled environment for coffee or cocktails well into the early hours.
Surround yourself with retro American vibes at The Bridge.
3. L'ETO Caffe
- Location: multiple locations
- Open until: 11pm
- Why we recommend: with several different London venues open until late, there are plenty of places to get your post-9pm fix of gorgeous cakes and pastries
With some of their outposts open until 11pm every single day, L'ETO Caffe is a pretty spot for late-night coffee and treats. Check out their Soho, Knightsbridge and Covent Garden venues for a selection of cakes, pastries and hot drinks, perfect for an evening catch up or to relax with a good book.
The interiors are very pretty, featuring an abundance of flowers and elegant white decor. Plus, there are healthy salads and other savoury bites if you fancy having dinner here too.
Tuck into late-night sweet treats at L'ETO Caffe.
4. EL&N London
- Location: multiple locations
- Open until: 10pm, 11pm or 12am, depending on the venue
- Why we recommend: these cafes are some of the most Instagram-worthy in the capital, and they've got a huge selection of unique drinks
A gorgeous pink cafe and bakery with venues in Soho, Mayfair, Shepherd's Bush, Knightsbridge and beyond, EL&N London is generally open to 11pm or 12am, minus a few sites. These places are a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds, flaunting beautiful flowers and Instagrammable neon signs on the walls.
Sink into their plush pink booths for a flat white, spiced chai latte, iced pistachio matcha or even a s'mores hot chocolate. Their cake and pastry selection is second-to-none, featuring the likes of Nutella and Lotus brownies and warm chocolate fondant. If you're after something a little more substantial, there are sandwiches and pasta dishes up for grabs too.
Get your fill of pretty pink decor at EL&N.
5. SHOT London
- Location: 10A Berkeley Street, Mayfair, W1J 8DR
- Open until: 11pm or 12am, depending on the venue
- Why we recommend: these guys really know what they're doing when it comes to coffee, and you can get your fix right up to midnight
A specialty coffee bar in Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Marylebone, SHOT London is open until at least 11pm every day of the week. They serve some of the best coffees in the whole country, both hot and iced, as well as a choice of sweet treats.
It's a cafe by day and bar by night, offering your caffeine hit well into the evening. As for the interior, expect sleek black decor and white marble tables, creating a trendy setting for drinks.
Sip quality coffee in stylish surrounds.
6. The Library Lounge
- Location: 10 Argyle Street, King's Cross, WC1H 8EG
- Open until: 12am Sunday-Wednesday, 2am Thursday-Saturday
- Why we recommend: there are endless books to peruse as you drink or dine here, and it's open past midnight on the weekends
Found within The Standard hotel in King's Cross, The Library Lounge is a cool space that was once home to the Camden Council Library. Today, it's a cafe-bar that's open from 7am right through to midnight, and sometimes later, filled with books from all genres.
Grab something to read and sip coffee or cocktails, and head to the Sound Studio for live DJs in the evenings. They have got a 'no laptops after 6pm' policy so it's not one for late-night work, but it's perfect for a more relaxed evening out with friends. There's even a special menu served from 10.30pm if you're peckish, serving burgers and snacks like Padron peppers or fried chicken bites.
Find books, burgers and beats at The Library Lounge.
7. Greenberry Cafe
- Location: 101 Regent's Park Road, Primrose Hill, NW1 8UR
- Open until: 10pm
- Why we recommend: not only is this place serving cakes and main dishes until late, but it's dog-friendly too
Situated right next to Primrose Hill, Greenberry Cafe is a charming spot that's open until 10pm Tuesday to Saturday. It's a popular all-day dining destination that serves top-quality, seasonally changing dishes. Expect a casual setting with excellent service, whether you're grabbing a late dinner or just cake and coffee (or cocktails).
Their menu includes everything from cacio e pepe arancini to Moroccan spiced lamb burgers and Devonshire crab linguine. What's more, they even allow well-behaved dogs into the cafe, so you can visit with your pup.
Enjoy evening plates with friends at this cosy cafe.
8. Kipferl Restaurant & Patisserie
- Location: 20 Camden Passage, Angel, N1 8ED
- Open until: 11pm Friday-Saturday, 10pm weekdays, 7pm Sunday
- Why we recommend: the Austrian menu is something that you don't find everywhere, and their cakes are unbelievable
Looking for some Austrian fare post-sunset? In Angel, Kipferl Restaurant & Patisserie is bringing you cakes, wine and coffee until 10 or 11pm. It takes its name from a traditional Austrian crescent biscuit, and they pride themselves on serving top-notch homemade bakes to their customers.
The restaurant has been around since 2003, and has become a real favourite over the years. Try a Viennese iced coffee or hot chocolate, with affordable wines and cocktails on offer too. Of course, it would be rude not to pair this with a kipferl or some apple strudel.
Coffee, wine and cakes, what more could you want?
9. Kula Cafe
- Location: 21 James Street, Mayfair, W1U 1DS
- Open until: 10pm
- Why we recommend: this is our top pick for Instagram-worthy dishes at night
Founded in 1999, Kula Cafe is dedicated to bringing its customers comforting food that's both halal and sustainable. Their ingredients are sourced from local producers as much as possible, mindful of environmental impact as well as quality. And as it's open until 10pm, you can enjoy their warming plates at any time of day.
Expect photo-worthy plates like red velvet pancakes and New York-style tenderloin with fried eggs. They also serve excellent specialty coffee, as well as indulgent cakes with beautiful designs.
Enjoy Kula Cafe's stunning halal eats late into the evening.
For more caffeine-fuelled outings, check out the best matcha in London.
