London’s coffee scene has come a long way from the days of basic, hurried brews. Today, the city is teeming with the best roasters and boutique cafes, each offering a distinct take on that perfect cup of coffee. Whether you’re an espresso enthusiast or a latte lover, London has something for every palate. From hidden gems in quirky neighborhoods to renowned establishments that have defined the city’s café culture, this guide will take you through some of the best spots to enjoy a truly great coffee.
Here’s a list of the top coffee shops across the capital, perfect for both locals and visitors craving a standout caffeine fix.
Climpson & Sons
Climpson & Sons is a pioneer in London’s third-wave coffee movement, located in the vibrant neighborhood of London Fields. Known for their ethical sourcing and dedication to quality, Climpson & Sons expertly roasts their own beans, offering a range of flavors that cater to the serious coffee connoisseur. Whether you're after a flat white or an espresso with a unique fruity twist, this spot delivers consistently excellent brews. The relaxed atmosphere and the smell of freshly roasted beans make it a must-visit for any coffee enthusiast.
Address: 67 Broadway Market, London Fields, London E8 4PH
Monmouth Coffee Company
Monmouth Coffee is one of London’s most iconic coffee institutions, having served up high-quality brews since 1978. Their original shop in Covent Garden quickly became a go-to spot for those who appreciate single-origin beans and freshly roasted blends. Each coffee at Monmouth is brewed to perfection, with a focus on seasonality and sustainable sourcing. The queue outside is a testament to their enduring popularity, but the experience inside—complete with hand-poured filter coffee—is worth the wait.
Address: 27 Monmouth St, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9EU
Qima Coffee
Qima Coffee brings a taste of Yemen’s rich coffee history to London. This boutique café champions specialty coffee, with a particular emphasis on unique Yemeni varieties that are seldom found elsewhere. Qima is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a celebration of one of the oldest coffee-growing regions in the world. Every cup tells a story, from the rare single-origin beans to the expert brewing methods. If you’re after an extraordinary coffee experience, Qima’s distinct flavors and dedication to quality will leave a lasting impression.
Address: 186 Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2ES
HR Higgins
HR Higgins has been a Mayfair staple for over 70 years, offering both coffee and tea lovers a refined, traditional experience. The shop prides itself on hand-selecting the finest beans from across the globe, which are roasted in small batches for optimal flavor. HR Higgins specializes in creating balanced, full-bodied blends that pair beautifully with their selection of fine teas. This is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a slow, elegant coffee experience in one of London’s most exclusive districts.
Address: 79 Duke Street, Mayfair, London W1K 5AS
Kiss the Hippo
Kiss the Hippo is synonymous with sustainability and craft coffee. Located in Fitzrovia, this café is committed to creating the best possible coffee while minimizing its environmental impact. Their coffee is sourced directly from farmers, ensuring both high quality and ethical practices. Kiss the Hippo’s state-of-the-art espresso machine and expert baristas create a variety of vibrant, flavorful cups that keep coffee lovers coming back. Whether you’re after a velvety flat white or a bold espresso, this is the place to go for a coffee experience that’s as good for the planet as it is for your taste buds.
Address: 51 Margaret Street, Fitzrovia, London W1W 8SG
Bar Italia Soho
Bar Italia has been serving up espresso since 1949 and is one of London’s most iconic coffee bars. Located in the heart of Soho, this family-run establishment has remained largely unchanged over the years, staying true to its Italian roots. The coffee is strong, traditional, and always served with a smile, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Open late into the night, Bar Italia is as much a part of Soho’s nightlife as its coffee scene, providing the perfect pick-me-up for after-dinner wanderings.
Address: 22 Frith Street, Soho, London W1D 4RF
Omotesando Koffee
Omotesando Koffee offers a minimalist yet sophisticated coffee experience in the bustling heart of Shoreditch. Known for its sleek interiors and focus on quality, Ooo Koffee prides itself on brewing only the finest specialty beans. The menu here is simple, allowing the expertly brewed coffee to speak for itself. Whether you prefer a meticulously crafted flat white or a perfectly balanced filter coffee, Ooo Koffee’s focus on precision and flavor will satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
Address: 45 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch, London EC2A 3PD
Algerian Coffee Stores
Algerian Coffee Stores is a Soho institution that has been serving London’s coffee lovers since 1887. Stepping into this tiny shop feels like stepping back in time, with walls lined with sacks of coffee beans from all over the world. Their selection is extensive, offering everything from the darkest, richest espresso blends to light, fruity single-origin beans. Algerian Coffee Stores is a haven for anyone who appreciates the art of coffee and its global heritage.
Address: 52 Old Compton Street, Soho, London W1D 4PB
Prufrock Coffee
Prufrock Coffee is a must-visit for anyone serious about their coffee. Founded by world barista champions, this café in Clerkenwell is at the forefront of coffee innovation in London. With a focus on brewing methods and precision, Prufrock delivers an excellent coffee experience, whether you're a fan of espresso or a lover of aeropress and pour-over techniques. The spacious interior and minimalist decor make it the perfect spot for working, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a carefully brewed cup of coffee.
Address: 23-25 Leather Ln, Clerkenwell, London EC1N 7TE
Batch Baby
Batch Baby is a small but mighty café tucked away in Dalston. Known for its bright, vibrant space and expertly brewed coffee, Batch Baby focuses on creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where the coffee is as enjoyable as the conversation. Their selection of beans is carefully curated, with a rotating menu of single-origin options that are always full of flavor. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Batch Baby offers a warm welcome and a top-notch cup of coffee.
Address: 67A Dalston Lane, Dalston, London E8 2NG
Nagare Coffee
Nagare Coffee is a minimalist’s dream, offering clean lines, muted tones, and perfectly crafted coffee. Located in the heart of Shoreditch, this café is dedicated to providing an exceptional coffee experience, using only the highest quality beans. Nagare’s commitment to precision and their simple, yet effective menu allows each cup of coffee to shine. Whether you're after a flat white or a pour-over, the balance of flavors here will have you coming back for more.
Address: 23 Leonard Street, Shoreditch, London EC2A 4AQ
Ozone Coffee
Ozone Coffee brings New Zealand’s legendary coffee culture to London with two locations: one in Shoreditch and another in Hackney. Known for its strong focus on sustainability and direct trade, Ozone roasts its own beans in-house, ensuring each cup is fresh and full of flavor. Their espresso-based drinks are the stars of the menu, with a smooth, rich finish that’s hard to beat. Alongside their outstanding coffee, Ozone also offers a fantastic brunch menu, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend visit.
Address: 11 Leonard St, Shoreditch, London EC2A 4AQ
Hermanos Coffee Roasters
Hermanos Coffee Roasters brings the flavors of Colombia to the heart of London, offering a range of single-origin Colombian beans roasted to perfection. Their cafes in Kings Cross and Victoria are popular among those who appreciate bold, complex flavors with a touch of South American warmth. Whether you’re after a rich espresso or a lighter filter coffee, Hermanos’ focus on quality and authenticity shines through in every cup.
Address: 2 Pancras Square, Kings Cross, London N1C 4AG
Flying Horse Coffee
Flying Horse Coffee is a hidden gem nestled in the City of London. Known for its dedication to sourcing and brewing exceptional coffee, Flying Horse prides itself on bringing the best of global coffee culture to the capital. Their baristas are passionate about their craft, ensuring that each cup is brewed to perfection. Whether you're stopping in for a quick espresso or lingering over a pour-over, the quality of coffee here is second to none.
Address: 52 Wilson St, London EC2A 2ER
Nola Coffee
Nola Coffee brings New Orleans-inspired coffee culture to the streets of Peckham Rye. Known for their unique twist on classic coffee drinks—such as their signature chicory-infused cold brew—Nola offers a menu full of exciting options for adventurous coffee drinkers. Their cozy Peckham location is a great spot to escape the bustle of the city while sipping on a flavorful brew.
Address: 61B Blenheim Grove, Peckham Rye, London SE15 4QS