1. Summary
Discover the best breakfast spots in London, featuring diverse menu options and unique atmospheres. This guide highlights popular suggestions from locals and offers a comprehensive look at various cafes suitable for breakfast lovers.
Get off to a good start with a great London breakfast
Fact checked by
Michelai Graham
Eating out at breakfast time in London isn’t just about fried food and toast. Find out where Londoners head for the best breakfasts in town. The following recommendations are suggested by locals. They all offer reasonably-priced dishes, including vegetarian options, and are all in a central London location.
A big thank you goes to Malcolm of The London Review of Breakfasts for his help in narrowing down the long list. A true expert on this subject.
02 of 09: Regency Cafe
Address: 17-19 Regency Street, London SW1P 4BY, UK
Phone: +44 20 7821 6596
4.2
If you’re searching for a traditional London breakfast spot for a Full English, the Regency Cafe is the go-to destination. This cafe has been in Pimlico since the 1940s, featuring a tiled exterior and interior. With fixed seating and framed pictures throughout, including displays of the Tottenham Hotspur football team from the early ’70s, it offers a charming ambiance.
The breakfasts here are large, hot, and affordable, with quick service ensuring you won’t have to wait long. It’s important to note that the cafe closes between 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. but reopens until 7 p.m., making it a great choice for both breakfast and dinner.
Address: 17-19 Regency Street, London SW1P 4BY
03 of 09: The Wolseley
Address: 160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB, UK
Phone: +44 20 7499 6996
The Wolseley is a grand dining experience. The high ceilings and stunning chandeliers create an elegant atmosphere, complemented by black lacquered wood and natural marble decor. Although it’s recommended to reserve a table due to its popularity, the exceptional service and delicious food are worth the effort. Whether you’re in the mood for a pot of tea, crumpets, pastries, boiled eggs with ‘soldiers’, or Eggs Benedict, breakfast is served until 11:30 a.m., with the restaurant remaining open all day and evening. No matter when you visit, you’ll feel esteemed.
04 of 09: Sacred
Address: Ariel Way, London W12 7JQ, UK
Sacred is operated by two New Zealanders who have successfully introduced an Antipodean style of café in London. Locals appreciate the diversity found in Sacred, stating, “the coffee and food are fantastic.” Expect to see menu options like muesli, bagels, and scrambled eggs on toast. This café remains open all day, making it a convenient option for breakfast enthusiasts.
05 of 09: The Breakfast Club
Address: 11 Southwark Street, London SE1 1RQ, UK
Phone: +44 20 7078 9634
With multiple locations including Soho, Hoxton, Islington, Shoreditch, and the South Bank, The Breakfast Club has garnered praise for its friendly atmosphere, diverse menu, and reasonable prices. Reviewers highlight the variety and quality of food, as well as the welcoming staff. Open all day.
06 of 09: Balans
Address: 60-62 Old Compton Street, London W1D 4UG, UK
Phone: +44 20 7439 2183
Balans is considered “good and dependable.” This Soho cafe operates 24 hours and offers multiple locations throughout London. With a menu that includes porridge, pastries, and a Full English, there is something for everyone. It also features funky interiors, making it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors. Open all day.
07 of 09: Carluccio’s
Address: 1 Canada Square, London E14 5AJ, UK
Phone: +44 20 7719 1749
Anthony Carluccio represents the essence of Italian dining in London with his cafes widely spread across the city. Here, you can expect quality, authentic Italian food at reasonable prices, along with excellent service in a busy atmosphere. The cafes are open all day and evening, making them an excellent option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
08 of 09: Blandford’s
“The best breakfast has to be at Blandford’s on Chiltern Street in Marylebone, just off Baker Street. It stands as a traditional cafe, which is a rare find in London nowadays. You can savor a full English breakfast for just £5.50 in a superb and relaxed atmosphere, where cab drivers mingle with couples and London’s elite.
However, be warned that service can be slow and sometimes surly. The owner has a unique style, always wearing tight jeans and a skinny white vest – and he doesn’t seem eager to serve; yet people adore this place.
09 of 09: Fleet River Bakery
Fleet River Bakery is behind Holborn station, offering freshly baked muffins and croissants made on the premises. The scrambled eggs are also particularly noteworthy. The cafe provides a comfortable space with Monmouth Coffee and operates throughout the day. Takeaway options are available for those on the go.
10 of 09: Lantana
Address: 13 Charlotte Place, London W1T 1SN, UK
Phone: +44 20 7637 3347
Lantana is an Australian-run cafe known for its flat whites and ‘baked eggs,’ popular among customers. Its charming ambiance makes it a preferred breakfast spot, even if service can occasionally be slow. The varied breakfast menu is always engaging and this cafe is open all day.
