Did you know that in the bustling heart of London, Soho has secretly been brewing up a storm of coffee culture? If not, well, you’d better get ready to embark on a journey through this caffeinated wonderland, where every corner boasts a unique cafe and every sip tells a story.
Whether you’re a Soho local searching for a new daily ritual or a visitor eager to savour the essence of downtown cool, our guide will unveil the hidden gems and well-loved classics that make Soho the caffeinated nucleus of London.
Bar Italia
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Location: 22 Frith St, London W1D 4RF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7437 4520
You can’t talk about Bar Italia without mentioning its rich history. This place has been serving up some of the finest coffee in Soho since 1949! It’s practically a living, breathing time capsule of Italian culture in London.
Their espresso is the real deal, and that’s because they’ve stuck to the traditional Italian methods. The beans are expertly roasted and brewed to perfection.
One of their best sellers, the “Espresso Doppio”, is a double shot of heaven that’ll give your taste buds a wake-up call like no other.
Department of Coffee and Social Affairs
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Location: 3 Lowndes Ct, Carnaby, London W1F 7HD, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
If Soho were a coffee kingdom, the Department of Coffee and Social Affairs would be its reigning monarch. It’s the go-to spot for anyone in search of a caffeine fix with a side of community spirit.
Let’s talk about their bestseller, the “Flat White”. It’s not just coffee, it’s an art form. These folks know how to craft the perfect cup, and the Flat White is the ultimate masterpiece. It’s like a creamy, velvety hug for your taste buds.
Flat White
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Location: 17 Berwick St, London W1F 0PT, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
What sets Flat White apart is its proud Australasian heritage. The café was one of the pioneers in introducing the Flat White coffee to London.
And it’s not just about the coffee. Flat White also serves up a tasty selection of Aussie-inspired bites. From scrumptious banana bread to delectable Anzac cookies, it’s a little slice of Australasia in the heart of London.
Grind Soho
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Location: 19 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9RP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7287 7073
Grind Soho is not just any run-of-the-mill café. This spot boasts a heritage that traces back to the 19th century when it was a renowned coffeehouse.
Their espresso is top-notch, brewed to perfection, and it’s the heart and soul of their menu. A bestseller, the “Black Americano”, is the ideal pick if you’re looking for a straightforward yet flavorful coffee kick.
Unlike many other cafes, Grind Soho isn’t an early bird. It’s open till the wee hours of the morning, catering to those night owls, partygoers, and insomniacs who need their caffeine fix at any hour. So whether you’re a sunrise or sunset person, Grind has your back.
Hideaway Coffee
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Location: 7 Farrier’s Psge, London W1D 7DP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 15395 67434
One thing that sets Hideaway apart is its charming family story. This café is the brainchild of a father-daughter duo, and their passion for coffee is palpable in every cup. Their love for the brew is infectious, and it’s hard not to be captivated by their enthusiasm.
The coffee they use is ethically sourced and roasted to perfection, ensuring that every sip you take is a sip with a purpose. One of their best-sellers, the “Honey Cappuccino”, is like a sweet symphony in a cup.
Plus, this café is an art gallery too. They showcase works from local artists, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to your coffee-sipping experience.
Söderberg
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Location: 36 Berwick St, London W1F 8RR, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
What sets Söderberg apart from your regular coffee joint is the concept of ‘fika’. In Swedish culture, ‘fika’ is more than just a coffee break, it’s a cherished tradition. It’s about taking a moment to relax, savouring coffee and indulging in delicious pastries.
Speaking of pastries, Söderberg’s selection is a pastry paradise. From cinnamon buns to cardamom twists, each bite is like a journey through the flavours of Scandinavia. And don’t even get us started on their bestseller, the “Princess Cake” – a royally delightful treat!
Tintico
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Location: 57 Greek St, London W1D 3DX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7950 323186
Tintico is like a little piece of Colombia transplanted to London. The café is named after “tintico”, a colloquial term for coffee in Colombia, and it’s a place where you can savour the rich coffee culture of this South American nation.
Colombia is famous for producing some of the world’s finest coffee beans, and Tintico brings those beans to your cup. Their bestseller, the “Colombian Tinto”, is a coffee lover’s dream come true, a smooth and flavorful brew that’ll make your taste buds dance.
KOZZEE
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Location: 193 Wardour St, London W1F 8ZF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3667 0778
What sets KOZZEE apart is its fusion of Korean and Japanese influences. It’s like a crossroads of Asia right in the heart of London.
Their bestseller, the “Matcha Latte” is a frothy, green masterpiece that blends the earthy essence of matcha with creamy, comforting goodness.
Plus, KOZZEE takes the concept of café culture to a whole new level. They serve delectable Japanese and Korean pastries, from mochi to taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries with sweet fillings), ensuring that every bite is a delightful adventure.
Caffè Nero
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Location: 43 Frith St, London W1D 4SA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7434 3887
“Caffè Nero” literally translates to “Black Coffee” in Italian, and it’s a nod to the rich, centuries-old tradition of Italian coffee culture.
The menu at Caffè Nero is like a global coffee tour. From a simple, soul-soothing Americano to a frothy cappuccino, they’ve got it all. But if you’re looking for a classic, the “Flat White” is their bestseller.
WFM Coffee Bar
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Location: 20 Glasshouse St, London W1B 5AR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7406 3100
What sets WFM Coffee Bar apart is its Peruvian connection. While you might associate Peru with Machu Picchu, llamas, and incredible landscapes (which it totally is!), it’s also a hidden gem in the world of coffee.
Their beans are ethically sourced and expertly roasted to bring you the true flavours of this South American wonderland. And when you’re here, don’t miss their bestseller, the “Peruvian Latte”. It’s like a coffee hug with a dash of exotic charm.
Costa Coffee
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Location: 11 Argyll St, London W1F 7TX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 333 003 5883
The name Costa may sound Italian, and you’re not mistaken. Costa Coffee’s story begins in London but traces its coffee roots back to Italy. That’s right, it’s the marriage of English charm and Italian coffee prowess.
Their baristas are trained to perfection, and that means you’re getting a coffee that’s brewed to caffeinated excellence. And their bestseller, the “Cappuccino”, is a classic for a reason – it’s a balanced blend of espresso, steamed milk, and velvety foam.
Toi & Moi Cafe
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Location: 38 Berwick St, London W1F 8RT, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7796 620340
Toi & Moi is steeped in French flair, from its name, which means “You and Me” in French, to its menu, which whispers the sweet secrets of French pastry and coffee.
The bestseller at Toi & Moi is the “Café au Lait”, and it’s a perfect embodiment of the cafe’s French charm. It’s like a trip to a Parisian bistro without the airfare – a delightful blend of coffee and warm milk that’ll make you feel as though you’re sipping your brew in the heart of Montmartre.
Blank Street Coffee
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Location: 22 Noel St, London W1F 8GS, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
What sets Blank Street Coffee apart is its intriguing origin story. It began as a clandestine coffee cart, popping up on London’s bustling streets, before finding its permanent home.
It’s a story that captures the spirit of Soho – a place where dreams become reality and where creativity knows no bounds. Their bestseller, the “Velvet Americano” is a smooth and bold coffee that’s as rich as the history of Soho itself.
My Place Soho
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Location: 21 Berwick St, London W1F 0PZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3417 2829
Soho is known for its hustle and bustle, but My Place Soho Coffee offers an oasis of calm amidst the chaos. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or catch up with friends, the cosy and relaxed ambience of the cafe is ideal.
One of their best-sellers and a must-try is the “Soho Fog” – it’s a London fog with a twist, blending Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a touch of honey. It’s a soothing drink that captures the essence of Soho.
Algerian Coffee Stores
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Location: 52 Old Compton St, London W1D 4QE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7437 2480
Established in 1887, this place has been slinging beans and brewing java for well over a century. Walking through its doors is like stepping into a time machine, transporting you to an era when coffee was a treasured commodity.
One of their crown jewels is the Mocha Java blend. It’s a harmonious marriage of Ethiopian Mocha beans and Indonesian Java beans. The result is a cup of coffee that’s both rich and fruity, with a hint of chocolate.
Tips for finding the best coffee in Soho
Know the closing times
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If you’re on the hunt for the best coffee in this bustling neighbourhood, timing is key. Many cafes start winding down their operations well before dinner time, which means you might miss out on experiencing their coffee at its freshest and finest.
So, keep an eye on those closing times to make sure your coffee adventure in Soho is as delightful as can be.
Understand coffee types
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Every cafe has its crown jewels, and many of them are coffee types that have won the hearts of regulars. If you’re aware of the coffee landscape, you can ask for the cafe’s best-selling brew and find out what’s the talk of the town.
You might even stumble upon a local favourite that could become your own Soho coffee staple.
Consider tipping
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Baristas are the unsung heroes behind the counter, working diligently to craft your perfect cup of coffee. Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for their expertise and hard work. It’s like giving them a high-five (or a thank-you smile) for brightening your day with that delicious brew.
Bring your reusable cup
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Soho’s coffee shops are increasingly becoming environmentally conscious. By bringing your own reusable cup, you’re not just sipping on a latte, you’re supporting a coffee culture that’s taking strides to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Now, here’s a little insider secret. Many coffee shops in Soho offer discounts to customers who bring their reusable cups. You not only save the environment but also some extra pennies in your pocket. That’s more change for your next coffee adventure!
