London, a city bursting with culture and culinary delights, offers some of the finest breakfast spots in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional English breakfast, a chic brunch with avocado toast, or a cozy café with specialty coffee, London has it all.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the city’s best breakfast cafes.
Breakfast Cafes at a Glance
Cafe Name | Location | Must-Try | Price Range | Ambiance |
---|---|---|---|---|
The Regency Café | Pimlico | Full English Breakfast, Tea | ££ | Retro and bustling |
E Pellicci | Bethnal Green | Bubble and Squeak, Sausages | ££ | Warm and historical |
The Breakfast Club | Multiple Locations | Pancakes, Avocado Toast | £££ | Fun and colorful |
Granger & Co. | Notting Hill | Ricotta Hotcakes, Coffee | £££ | Chic and airy |
Monmouth Coffee | Covent Garden | Single-Origin Coffee, Pastries | ££ | Minimalist and cozy |
Kaffeine | Fitzrovia | Flat White, Banana Bread | ££ | Vibrant and community-focused |
Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium | Shoreditch | Scones with Cream and Jam | £££ | Playful and cozy |
Sketch | Mayfair | Croissants, Eggs Florentine | ££££ | Extravagant and artistic |
1. Classic English Breakfast Cafes
For those who want to start their day with a hearty, traditional English breakfast, here are some top picks:
- The Regency Café (Pimlico)
- Why Visit: A London institution since 1946, this café is famous for its no-nonsense approach to the full English breakfast.
- Must-Try: Full English Breakfast with black pudding and a steaming mug of tea.
- Ambiance: Retro vibes with checkered tablecloths and a bustling atmosphere.
- Price Range: ££
- E Pellicci (Bethnal Green)
- Why Visit: Family-run since 1900, this café blends Italian and British breakfast traditions.
- Must-Try: Eggs, sausages, and homemade bubble and squeak.
- Ambiance: Warm, welcoming, and a little slice of history.
- Price Range: ££
2. Trendy Brunch Spots
For those who prefer a modern twist with aesthetic interiors, here are some Instagram-worthy cafes:
- The Breakfast Club (Multiple Locations)
- Why Visit: Known for its vibrant decor and extensive menu.
- Must-Try: Pancakes with maple syrup, avocado toast, or breakfast burritos.
- Ambiance: Fun, quirky, and colorful.
- Price Range: £££
- Granger & Co. (Notting Hill)
- Why Visit: This Australian-inspired café offers a bright and airy atmosphere.
- Must-Try: Ricotta hotcakes, scrambled eggs, and coffee.
- Ambiance: Chic and sophisticated.
- Price Range: £££
3. Specialty Coffee Shops
If coffee is your main focus, these spots combine excellent coffee with breakfast options:
- Monmouth Coffee (Covent Garden)
- Why Visit: One of the best coffee roasters in London.
- Must-Try: Single-origin coffee paired with pastries.
- Ambiance: Minimalist and cozy.
- Price Range: ££
- Kaffeine (Fitzrovia)
- Why Visit: Known for its barista expertise and strong brews.
- Must-Try: Flat white with a slice of banana bread.
- Ambiance: Vibrant and community-focused.
- Price Range: ££
4. Hidden Gems for a Unique Experience
Looking for something off the beaten path? These cafes are worth exploring:
- Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium (Shoreditch)
- Why Visit: A quirky café where you can enjoy breakfast surrounded by rescue cats.
- Must-Try: Scones with cream and jam.
- Ambiance: Playful and cozy.
- Price Range: £££
- Sketch (Mayfair)
- Why Visit: Known for its eclectic design and Michelin-starred offerings.
- Must-Try: Croissants, eggs Florentine, and tea.
- Ambiance: Extravagant and artistic.
- Price Range: ££££
5. Tips for Choosing the Perfect Breakfast Spot
- Location Matters: Choose a café near your accommodation or planned activities.
- Peak Hours: Popular spots fill up fast; consider early mornings or weekdays.
- Dietary Preferences: Many cafes offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
- Budget: London’s breakfast scene caters to all budgets, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
London’s breakfast cafes are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re a foodie, a coffee enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a quiet start to the day, you’re sure to find a spot that feels just right. So grab your appetite and explore the capital one café at a time!
Let us know your favorite breakfast spots in London or share your experiences below!