London is known for a lot of things—Big Ben, red buses, rainy days, and… really, really good coffee. If you’re tired of Starbucks lines and ready to discover the city’s hidden coffee gems, you’re in for a treat.
London’s artisan coffee scene is booming, filled with cozy little spots serving hand-crafted brews that could give any Italian café a run for its money.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best artisan coffee shops across the city. Whether you’re a flat white aficionado or a pour-over purist, London’s got something for every coffee lover.
1. Monmouth Coffee – The OG of London’s Coffee Scene
📍 Covent Garden, Borough Market
Monmouth Coffee is like the Beatles of London’s artisan coffee scene—it’s a classic. Founded in 1978, it was one of the first specialty coffee roasters in the UK. These folks are serious about their beans, sourcing them directly from farmers around the world.
The vibe here is warm and inviting, with long communal tables where you can chat with locals or simply enjoy people-watching. Pro tip: if you visit their Borough Market branch, grab a croissant from a nearby vendor to pair with your coffee.
Must-try: Their signature flat white—it’s creamy, smooth, and just what you need to fuel a morning stroll around Covent Garden.
2. Kaffeine – A Slice of Australia in the Heart of London
📍 Fitzrovia
If London and Melbourne had a coffee baby, it would be Kaffeine. This Aussie-inspired café has a no-nonsense approach to coffee, focusing on quality and precision. Their baristas know their way around a La Marzocco machine, delivering espresso shots that hit the sweet spot every time.
Kaffeine’s food is just as impressive as their coffee—so don’t leave without trying their homemade banana bread or a gooey brownie. The seating can get tight, but hey, a little bit of crowd means you’re in the right place, right?
Must-try: Espresso with a side of sparkling water—it’s like a mini coffee tasting experience.
3. Workshop Coffee – For the Coffee Nerds ☕
📍 Marylebone, Fitzrovia
Workshop Coffee isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a whole philosophy. These guys geek out on coffee science and source their beans meticulously, focusing on single-origin offerings. If you love knowing exactly where your coffee comes from and how it was processed, Workshop Coffee is your playground.
The minimalist interior makes it the perfect spot to sit down, sip, and dive into a book—or your emails, if you’re working remotely.
Must-try: Try their pour-over options to appreciate the unique notes in each single-origin batch. It’s like a wine tasting—but for coffee lovers.
4. Prufrock Coffee – Run by a Barista Champion
📍 Leather Lane
You know you’re in good hands when the place is run by a former World Barista Champion. Prufrock Coffee takes its craft seriously, offering not just top-notch brews but also barista training courses if you want to up your own coffee game.
Leather Lane’s market vibe adds a buzz to the whole experience. Drop by, order a flat white, and take in the eclectic surroundings—it’s a coffee adventure you won’t forget.
Must-try: A single-origin espresso. With champions running the place, you know it’s going to be perfect.
5. Ozone Coffee Roasters – Coffee with Kiwi Vibes
📍 Shoreditch
Straight out of New Zealand, Ozone Coffee Roasters has made a big splash in London. The café has an industrial-chic vibe, with exposed brick walls, cozy booths, and long communal tables. It’s a perfect place to spend a lazy Saturday morning.
The team at Ozone roasts their own beans, ensuring you get the freshest cup possible. And they’ve nailed the food game too—don’t sleep on their brunch menu, especially the avocado toast (because, obviously).
Must-try: A filter coffee paired with a freshly baked pastry. Simple, but oh-so-good.
6. The Attendant – A Quirky Café in a Former Victorian Bathroom
📍 Fitzrovia, Shoreditch
Yes, you read that right—The Attendant is housed in a restored Victorian public toilet. But don’t let that weird you out! The quirky setting only adds to the charm, and the coffee is top-notch. This isn’t a gimmick; the baristas here know their stuff.
With cozy nooks to sit in and plants hanging everywhere, it’s a unique and relaxing spot to sip your cappuccino. It’s also an Instagrammer’s dream, so don’t forget to snap a photo of your latte art.
Must-try: A cappuccino—it pairs perfectly with the vibe of this quirky space.
7. Climpson & Sons – A Hipster Hangout in East London
📍 Broadway Market
If you find yourself in Hackney, make a beeline for Climpson & Sons. Nestled in the heart of Broadway Market, this coffee shop is a favorite among locals and hipsters alike. They roast their own beans in small batches, so you’re always guaranteed a fresh brew.
The atmosphere is laid-back, and it’s a great spot to relax after exploring the market. On weekends, the outdoor seating fills up fast, so get there early to snag a spot.
Must-try: A cold brew—it’s refreshing and smooth, just what you need after a stroll through the market.
8. Milk Beach – Specialty Coffee Meets Brunch Goals
📍 Queen’s Park
Milk Beach is the perfect blend of specialty coffee and top-tier brunch. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Queen’s Park, this spot serves some of the best espresso drinks and filter coffees in town. And if you’re into brunch (who isn’t?), their menu is stacked with everything from pancakes to shakshuka.
The setting is bright and airy, with outdoor seating for those rare sunny London days. Bring a friend, order a flat white, and dive into a plate of something delicious.
Must-try: A flat white with a side of banana bread—trust me on this one.
London’s Artisan Coffee Scene Is a Journey Worth Sipping ☕✨
Exploring London’s artisan coffee shops is like going on a treasure hunt—with each new spot, you unlock different flavors, vibes, and experiences. From classic institutions like Monmouth Coffee to quirky gems like The Attendant, there’s something in this city for everyone.
So, whether you’re an espresso purist or a filter coffee fanatic, London’s coffee scene will spoil you for choice. Grab your reusable cup, put on your walking shoes, and dive into the delicious world of artisan coffee. After all, life’s too short for bad coffee—and in London, you’ll never have to settle.