Brunch – perhaps the epitome of a civilised society – is that time when one eases leisurely into mid-morning, with no other pressing engagement than to indulge in some delicious food with an acquaintance or two.
And where better to exercise those morning tastebuds than one of London’s most exclusive and prestigious postcodes, St John’s Wood. Sitting in North West London, the area is celebrated for its elegant tree‑lined avenues, impeccably preserved Victorian and Georgian architecture, and exclusive village‑style atmosphere.
Home to Lord’s Cricket Ground and close to Regent’s Park, St John’s Wood offers residents the perfect blend of calm and cosmopolitan convenience. Historically favoured by celebrities, from the Beatles to today’s well‑heeled crowd, its desirability endures thanks to top-tier schools, boutique shops and cafés, and a deep sense of community. This blend of luxury and serenity cements its status among the capital’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. And the perfect place to brunch.
With countless places to choose from, all dishing up their own signature take on this increasingly popular dining option, we pick out some of the very best brunches that St John’s Wood has to offer.
Drunch Regent’s Park
Address: 38 St John’s Wood Terrace, NW8 6LS
More than just a café, Drunch presents a modern, sun-drenched dining space marrying bohemian flair with comfort. The brunch menu serves up mouth-watering classics like shakshuka, vegetarian and full English, fluffy pancakes, and açaí bowls, paired with a range of smoothie concoctions and a top-notch coffee offering.
Inside, the clean, minimalist décor floods with natural light and attracts a loyal St John’s Wood crowd of families, professionals and couples alike to soak up its relaxed mid-morning vibe.
For a standout brunch dish, it’s very hard to look past its French toast topped with ricotta, banana, berries, pistachio and maple syrup – Instagram gold and utterly delicious.
Johnny Green
Address: 87 Allitsen Road, NW8 7AS
Part of the Daisy Green Collection, Johnny Green captures the breezy charm of an Aussie beachside café – picture Coogee or St Kilda beaches, but in the heart of leafy St John’s Wood. Its open kitchen, lush foliage, vibrant awnings and generous outdoor seating – wrapping its enviable street corner spot – set the scene.
The atmosphere very much mirrors its Aussie roots; all bright, casual and lively with clinking cutlery punctuating the waves of laughter and relaxed chatter. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a cheerful, spirited brunch.
For those Johnny Green regulars in the know, a brunchtime visit is all about the “Golden Gaytime” pancakes – a decadent stack with milk chocolate ganache, malt crumble, whipped mascarpone, salted caramel, and tuile.
Maison Soutine
Address: 60 St John’s Wood High Street, NW8 7SH
The team behind The Wolseley and The Delaunay bring some French chic to St John’s Wood High Street, with this Parisian-style boulevard café in the shape of Maison Soutine.
Set in a handsome period building, it delivers both relaxed front‑room charm and a more refined dining back area as well as an al fresco space that could easily have been lifted off a Paris street. Attracting a mix of locals and visitors looking to add a touch of sophistication to their brunch, Soutine oozes effortless style and continental flair before you’ve even sat down.
As for the menu, French classics such as ‘Soupe à l’oignon’ (French onion soup), duck confit and a delicious pastry range are a given, served together with coffee, but for a real brunch treat, try the potato rösti topped with a double‑fried egg, which marries the comfort and elegance that characterises this establishment. Honourable brunch menu mentions also include some fantastic buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict.
As a brunch spot, Soutine does get very busy, particularly at weekends, so where possible it is worth trying to book ahead.
England’s Grace
Address: 64 St John’s Wood High Street, NW8 7SH
Opened in 2003, England’s Grace is one of the newest additions to the high street, and despite its name, is another of St John’s Wood’s favourite brunch spots that more than leans into its antipodean roots, intertwining Australian brunch culture with some modern European flair.
Belying its short life, it is already making waves in the neighbourhood and beyond, drawing a stylish crowd with a penchant for its vibrant flavours and laid‑back atmosphere, making it perfect for weekend catch-ups or pre-shopping pit‑stops.
The crispy sweetcorn fritters with smashed avocado and chilli jam are a firm favourite here, as is the warm banana bread with Greek yoghurt and honey.
Babbo
Address: 29-31 St John’s Wood High Street, London, NW8 7NH
Though not strictly a ‘brunch café, Babbo is worth a special mention for its impressive take on Italian all‑day dining (along with its iconic white vintage Fiat as you enter). When the sun is shining, a morning visit here feels like stepping onto an Italian terrace – elegant simplicity at its finest, served with exceptional quality and warmth.
Expect house-baked focaccia, artisanal sandwiches, fresh fruit and salads, rich coffees, and for something a little different, their cured beef platter is utter joy.
If you happen to be there when a test match rolls into town, Babbo’s special pre-match brunch sets you up perfectly before a day in the stands at Lords just a short distance away.
St John’s Wood isn’t just a high-class postcode – it’s a warm, lived‑in community, balancing sophistication with an easy, laid-back atmosphere that lends itself perfectly to a long leisurely brunch with friends or family, loved ones or business acquaintances.
Whether you're opting for the French refinement of Maison Soutine, the antipodean hospitality at Johnny Green, or the Italian elegance of Babbo, this area offers a brunch scene that can rival many others in the capital.
