Indeed, I found myself back in London last month in July after enjoying a family getaway in Morocco, and I’m eager to share my experiences exploring specialty coffee in London, particularly since many new coffee shops have been opening. Who claims that the proliferation of coffee shops is just a fad? Hmmm! To summarize, it seems there’s a pattern emerging, as coffee brands from international locales like Dubai (in my previous post), Nairobi (yes, that’s in Kenya, Africa), Asia, and Europe are launching branches in London. I also had the pleasure of revisiting some of my favorite spots, especially as they were conveniently located on my journeys around London to meet friends.
The Barn Café, 36 Charlotte Street
Just recently opened on Charlotte Street, a short stroll from Oxford Street (at the Tottenham Court Road end and near Goodge Street), Barn Berlin has launched a location in the lively London scene called The Barn Café (distinct from Barn Berlin). A snug refuge, the ambiance is urban chic featuring exposed brick with a natural vibe, adorned with wooden furnishings and flooring that I guess matches their coffee bags, reminiscent of my favorite coffee shop back in Cape Town. They operate a La Marzocco two-group linea machine with Victoria Arduino grinders. There’s some outdoor seating, which was ideal during my visit on a warm sunny 30°C day in London. However, I chose to sit indoors to take some photos and videos while chatting a bit with their welcoming staff, which I did. Since I hadn’t yet enjoyed a milk-based coffee that day, I ordered a flat white made from their blend.
Perfectly balanced.
They have a wide range of coffees for sale, allowing you to drink and take some home.
Spring Valley, 24 Camden Passage, Islington
I was thrilled to discover this new coffee shop opened in London just before my visit, but you might be wondering why. To put it simply, I have been aware of this Kenyan coffee brand since 2018, and the opening of an African brand in one of London’s most esteemed neighborhoods suggested to me two significant things: that an African food and beverage company has the courage to start up in London and that a true coffee shop will be routinely serving Kenyan coffee. So, I took my daughter on a particularly rainy Sunday, and I was taken aback by how bustling the area was. Even more impressive was the size of the shop. Equipped with all the most impressive gear I had seen in Nairobi, such as a La Marzocco Strada and a Swan grinder.
I chose a cappuccino using their dark roast, although I must admit, I would have preferred their medium roast, which they had already sold out of by 11:30 am. They also have a variety of African merchandise available for purchase, and I can envision them becoming a hub for locals and British Africans alike.
Frequency Specialty Coffee, 13 Camden Passage Islington
Close to Spring Valley, I initially thought I had stumbled upon a tiny coffee shop. However, after ascending the stairs, I later discovered that Frequency has seating spread across four levels, including a lovely garden patio. On a rainy day, we settled on the second floor as I enjoyed my Brazilian cortado, which had delightful hints of dark chocolate dancing across the edges of my tongue.
So delightful that I purchased a bag of their espresso beans to bring back to Dubai as well.
Later in the week, I returned with my brother, and guess what? It was raining again, but this time I opted for a V60, which was excellent as well.
Zero to One, 19 Widegate, near Liverpool Street Station
We know that Vietnam ranks as the second largest coffee producer globally, but I had never encountered a Vietnamese specialty coffee shop until now—just a stone’s throw from Liverpool Street tube station, the epicenter of bankers, lawyers, and the wealth creators of London. My daughter actually pointed me towards this spot, so I visited with my wife to give it a try. Featuring a Kees van der Westen spirit espresso machine, operated by a friendly barista, I knew they meant serious business.
I chose a cortado made with…. Guess what? A medium-light roasted Vietnamese specialty robusta natural coffee bean, fermented with kefir (typically used for fermenting yogurt)—yes, it’s a mouthful, but truly a mouthful of deliciousness too. Yum!
They roast and sell their beans too, so if you’re in the mood for something distinct, give them a try.
So, where else did I go?
Well, I stopped by a few other reliable places that I’ve previously written about, such as.
Kiss the Hippo on Margaret Street, near Oxford Street, was actually my first specialty coffee stop. I enjoyed a nicely balanced fruity V60 brewed from Colombian Pink bourbon Arabica beans.
Urban Botanica in Kennington for a cortado brewed from a Rwanda natural blend on their Kees van der Westen spirt espresso machine.
WatchHouse (with locations in Fitzrovia and Bond Street) for scrumptious banana bread and batch brew, and on another visit, a flat white. I’m quite fond of the interiors and the meticulous attention to detail by the staff at this establishment; you can usually count on having a great experience when you visit. Did I mention they also have a customer loyalty app?
The Shed at Clapham South underground station now uses Assembly coffee (previously it was Caravan) for a quick cortado.
2 Love to Coffee House on St Johns Road, Clapham, was my final coffee stop, where I enjoyed a flat white utilizing their espresso blend—a delightful conclusion to my London coffee pursuits.
**Guide to Coffee Drinking in London: Summer 2025 Edition**
London, a city celebrated for its extensive history and dynamic culture, has transformed into a paradise for coffee aficionados. As summer 2025 unfolds, the city’s coffee landscape proves to be more vibrant than ever, providing a diverse range of experiences for both locals and visitors. This guide will steer you through the essential coffee spots, emerging trends, and distinctive experiences that characterize coffee drinking in London this summer.
**Top Coffee Spots to Visit**
1. **Monmouth Coffee Company**
Nestled in the lively Borough Market, Monmouth Coffee Company remains a favorite for coffee enthusiasts. Renowned for sourcing premium beans, Monmouth offers an array of single-origin coffees that showcase the unique flavors of each region. This summer, indulge in their cold brew, perfect for a refreshing lift on a warm day.
2. **Kaffeine**
Located in Fitzrovia, Kaffeine draws inspiration from the coffee cultures of Australia and New Zealand. This independent café is known for its expertly crafted espresso creations. Their summer menu features an irresistible iced flat white, a must-try for anyone craving a smooth and creamy coffee experience.
3. **Workshop Coffee**
With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Workshop Coffee in Clerkenwell is at the forefront of the specialty coffee movement. This summer, they will be launching a series of coffee tasting workshops, offering an educational opportunity for those eager to dive deeper into the art of coffee brewing.
4. **Ozone Coffee Roasters**
Situated in Shoreditch, Ozone Coffee Roasters boasts an industrial-chic atmosphere and a dedication to ethical sourcing. Their Nitro Cold Brew, infused with nitrogen for a creamy finish, is a standout selection for summer 2025.
5. **The Attendant**
Located in a converted Victorian toilet, The Attendant in Fitzrovia offers a quirky yet delightful ambiance for coffee lovers. Their summer special, an iced lavender latte, blends floral notes with rich espresso, resulting in a distinctive and refreshing drink.
**Emerging Trends**
– **Sustainable Practices**: As environmental awareness rises, numerous London coffee shops are implementing sustainable methods. From using compostable cups to sourcing beans from ethical growers, sustainability is a primary focus this summer.
– **Specialty Cold Brews**: Cold brew coffee continues to rise in popularity, leading many cafés to experiment with flavors and brewing techniques. Look out for unique infusions such as citrus or floral notes, adding a refreshing flair to your summer coffee.
– **Coffee Cocktails**: Merging the worlds of coffee and mixology, coffee cocktails are gaining traction in London. Expect to encounter inventive mixtures that pair the bold flavors of coffee with spirits, perfect for a summer evening.
**Unique Coffee Experiences**
– **Coffee Tasting Tours**: Various companies offer guided coffee tasting tours that take you through London’s finest coffee spots. These excursions provide insights into the city’s coffee culture and allow for sampling a variety of brews.
– **Barista Workshops**: For anyone looking to refine their coffee-making skills, barista workshops present an excellent choice. Master the art of latte art or perfect your espresso technique under the guidance of expert baristas.
– **Pop-Up Coffee Events**: Keep yourself informed about pop-up coffee events around the city. These temporary setups often showcase collaborations between local roasters and cafés, presenting exclusive blends and one-of-a-kind coffee experiences.
**Conclusion**
London’s coffee culture in summer 2025 is a colorful blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or a curious newcomer, the city’s varied offerings guarantee something for everyone. From iconic cafés to emerging trends and unique encounters, this guide will aid you in navigating the fascinating realm of coffee drinking in London this summer.
