The café scene in London in 2025 is a vivid and caffeine-stimulating tapestry of indie success stories, sophisticated and historic mainstays and slick new brands. But the story of London's café culture can be traced centuries and long before orders of decaf caramel frappuccinos with oat milk were being served in the streets of the capital.
It was 1652 when Pasqua Rosée opened the first known English coffeehouse in St. Michael's Alley. These establishments quickly became hubs for intellectual and political discourse. Notably, Lloyd's Coffee House, established in 1688, evolved into the world-renowned Lloyd's of London insurance market. These early coffeehouses played a pivotal role in the development of British society, serving as venues for the exchange of ideas and the birthplaces of institutions that continue to thrive today.
Today, from the bustling streets of Soho to the serene corners of Richmond, the city's cafes offer more than just a caffeine fix – they provide a window into London's rich social and multi-cultural fabric. So rich is the quality and choice on offer, it is hard to go wrong when searching for a top café, and once you’ve found your favourite, going anywhere else will be just an afterthought.
Swiss Bread Bakery & Café – Richmond upon Thames
Currently riding the very enviable wave of being crowned London's best café of 2025 by a well-known publisher, Swiss Bread Bakery & Café in the leafy south west suburb of Richmond, offers more than just exceptional coffee. Run by Swiss duo Andre and Tanja, the café is renowned for its freshly baked breads, croissants, and Swiss-inspired dishes like flammkuchen, fondue and ever-changing weekly specials. The warm, rustic interior and commitment to quality make it hard to question its current title.
Apple Butter – Covent Garden
Apple Butter is a charming brunch spot nestled in the heart of Covent Garden. Known for its inventive menu and cosy atmosphere, it has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The café's commitment to quality ingredients and friendly service ensures a delightful dining experience. As its name hints, the star of this dining spot is its iconic (and very instagrammable) apple tree, planted centre stage for all to see and enjoy.
Born from the very creative minds of Middle-Eastern brothers Saleh and Mohammad Alayan alongside Faycal Abdel Khalek, the menu derives its inspiration from their birthplace, with humus, shawarmas and labneh sitting comfortably alongside irresistible sweet treats and drink options.
Peggy Porschen Cakes – Belgravia
Peggy Porschen is, quite simply, stunning. All vibrant colour, attentive service and delicious desserts, it is a joy for every sense. Situated in the ever-desirable Belgravia, its renowned pink façade is hard to miss, and its selection of exquisite cake and pasties and elegant afternoon teas are equally enticing.
Founder Peggy’s culinary flair was honed at Le Cordon Bleu Patisserie school, which is abundantly clear the moment you step into the café. With clever changes to its patisserie offering as the seasons evolve, the café proclaims to “be passionate about storytelling through the canvas of cake”.
Sift Bakes and Brews – Richmond upon Thames
Another of Richmond’s countless café offerings, Sift Bakes and Brews is very much a local favourite. Independent to its core, the café sits opposite the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew and has developed a devoted customer base. With TripAdvisor reviews revealing almost unanimous five-star ratings, the appreciation and love for food and the drive and passion of sharing become palpable at Sift Bakes and Brews.
Inside, its calm, soulful, yet unpretentious atmosphere is immediately apparent and the perfect place to catch up with a friend and indulge in one of their brews and bakes, or if you’re a little more peckish, one of their sandwiches.
Urban Pantry – Chiswick
Very much in the ‘hidden-gem’ category, Urban Pantry in Chiswick is a community-focused café known for its wholesome menu and welcoming atmosphere. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, it has garnered a loyal following among health-conscious diners.
Founded by Leith’s School of Food and Wine-trained Kate Frobisher in 2015, Urban Pantry has thrived ever since, winning Best Brunch Place in Chiswick at the TimeOut Awards and claiming Best Breakfast of the Year at the 2019 National Breakfast Awards.
Its menu is full of surprises, with inventive takes on café classics, such as rhubarb and apricot French toast, with expertly crafted coffees.
WatchHouse – Bermondsey
What began as a small 19th-century watchhouse has transformed into a tiny, yet beloved specialty coffee spot. WatchHouse in Bermondsey is known for its single-origin brews, minimalist design, and a menu that includes sandwiches and sweet treats.
Despite its compact size, the café offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere, making it a favourite among coffee purists looking for that note of quality in their caffeine fix.
London's café culture in 2025 is symbolic of the city’s ability to innovate and reinvent itself. With roots dating back to the 17th century, the artisanal coffee shops and delicate patisseries of today might seem like a far cry from Pasqua Rosée’s establishment that introduced the capital to the concept. At their heart though, a good café remains a place where you can connect with the community, create, contemplate and grab a nice drink among the rich tapestry London has on offer.
So, the next time you sip your coffee in one of London's charming cafés, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history that have brewed this perfect cup.
