CoffeY’s coffeE Guides - best coffee shops in london
God save the bean
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God save the bean ---
A spoonful of crema makes the medicine go down
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A spoonful of crema makes the medicine go down ---
London is chocked full of history, bustling side streets, and notable landmarks. When you visit, it feels like you already know the city so well - the city inspired so many classic stories that we as children loved and still cherish to this day. There is a sense of comfort in already being well accustomed to the stories and literature of England that makes a trip to London, and indeed the United Kingdom as a whole, ever the more enjoyable.
Do not be mistaken, London is a metropolis, populated by nearly 9 million people, and one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth, which makes it at times insanely busy. With that in mind, it is very important to plan out your trip well, and to ensure you have rest stops during your stay. What better place to relax for a moment than in one of London’s specialty coffee shops.
I was especially excited to visit a number of coffee shops during our 5 day stay in London. The city’s coffee culture has evolved drastically in the last decade or so, and has produced some major players in the worldwide specialty coffee scene. Without further ado, here are the coffee shops we explored in London, from good to best.
Kiss the Hippo
First on the list is Kiss the Hippo (open in Google Maps). This is a good coffee shop if you happen upon it. Many people ranked this as their top coffee shop in London, which I would have to disagree with. The espresso tasted metallic, I suspect the machine needed a proper cleaning. I also have heard that a long line can form, which in my opinion, it does not deserve. That does not mean; however, that the shop is not worth a stop. Come here if you are in need of a caffeine fix and you still want quality coffee, rather than a Costa or Starbucks. Do not come here expecting to be wowed by a complex cup with superb tasting notes.
%Arabica
Kyoto-based %Arabica (open in Google Maps) has exploded in popularity, now boasting a whopping 141 locations around the world. It makes sense, the coffee is great and the design minimal and relaxed. We went to their Covent Garden location, which was packed when we arrived. They make a wide variety of coffees, both iced and hot, and they do it well. Again, do not expect complex or experimental offerings, but come for a quick cup as you continue your day. My one complaint would be that there was not adequate seating, making it a tough place to relax for a moment. Other than that, a fine coffee shop.
Redemption Roasters
Also in Covent Garden, you will find Redemption Roasters (open in Google Maps). Redemption also has locations in Piccadilly, Holborn, and several other spots in London. We came here for a quick breakfast before visiting Westminster, and thoroughly enjoyed their space. What many coffee shops lack in terms of space to settle and relax, Redemption takes the cake with a shop filled with natural light, plenty of seating, and numerous plants, making it a great spot to kick back for a while.
Formative Coffee
A short walk from Westminster Abbey, in what looks like a spaceship inspired building, lies Formative Coffee (Open in Google Maps). Towing the line of no frills and minimalism, the shop offers great espresso as well as several pastries. We came here several times due to its proximity to many major London attractions, and even were able to meet some friends who were also traveling to London the same time we were. A solid shop with a solid offering.
Rosslyn
Rosslyn (open in Google Maps) in Victoria caters to the business crowd with quick service, takeaway, and not a ton of space to sit. However, the location and shop are well designed, and the baristas were experienced and super kind. Perfect place to grab a quick coffee to go and proceed to sight see.
Omotesando
Located just off the bustling Oxford Street, we find our next coffee shop. Another Japanese third wave chain, Omotesando (open in Google Maps) in SOHO, is a breath of fresh air. The small yet expertly designed shop made for a great stop on our arrival day - the cortado I ordered was just what I needed to curb the ever evolving jet lag, and the taste was superb. The attention to detail was prevalent not only in their espresso, but also throughout the Japanese minimalist store
WatchHouse
We ventured to the Bishopsgate location and as I am writing this, I am surprised to see that the brand has so many locations spread around London. The attention to detail of the shop gets full marks. As their slogan “Modern Coffee” suggests, WatchHouse (open in Google Maps) is ultra minimal, as I would suspect their many other locations follow suit. Along with your order, comes a card with detailed information about the type of bean, origin, and tasting notes, which as a coffee nerd made my day.
Monmouth Coffee Company
No London coffee shop list is complete without mentioning Monmouth. Monmouth Coffee Company (open in Google Maps) was a pioneer in London when it came to specialty coffee and continue to hone their craft and make outstanding drinks. We went to the location at Borough Market and really enjoyed their space and of course, their coffee. Unlike other coffee shops, Monmouth’s focus is on roasting and selling beans from all over the world. In terms of quality combined with variety, Monmouth is king. Come here to buy a bag of beans or order a pour over from a country maybe you haven’t tried before.
Prufrock
Prufrock (open in Google Maps) is often the top spot on everyone's list. I get it, the pour over, the food, and the shop are excellent. They also sell some very exclusive coffee beans as well, if that is your thing (it’s my thing). The location is the one minus, as it is a bit out of the way and there is nothing of note nearby (unless you don't mind paying for a pricey black cab). Come here for extremely good coffee and some insanely good toast (Brenna won’t stop talking about it).
Archetype
At the top of our list is a newcomer to the London coffee scene. In the quaint and peaceful Fitzrovia, you will find a small coffee shop called Archetype (open in Google Maps). The solo barista (also the owner) made one of the best cortados I have ever had and I cannot wait to come back someday. Though the space is small, it adds to the overall experience, just you, maybe a fellow coffee lover, and the barista. It remains one of my favorite coffee experiences. If you want a spectacular cup of coffee in a quiet part of town, look no further than Archetype.
